317 Are you happy? Ambush! Soul-snatching spell!
Updated: 2013-09-10 13:16:26 Word Count: 7852
Luo Zhiheng left without even having a chance to say goodbye to Yu'er. She was still asleep when the carriage started moving forward, so Mu Yunhe held her in his arms, embracing her and pressing her face against his chest in a warm and tender gesture.
The grand procession set off, even more magnificent this time, for the esteemed pharaohs of the Mu Dynasty were present. The young lady's carriage and the leaders of the Southern Dynasty army stretched the procession into a long line. Qi Wan and Xiao Xizi were still riding in the carriages at the back, while the wet nurse sat outside Mu Yunhe's carriage. From the moment they set off, she felt an inexplicable tension. Despite the swaying of the carriage, she remained vigilant, as if something was about to happen.
The King's entourage still led the way, with Mu Yunhe's in the middle, and the Pharaoh and others following behind. The Southern Dynasty's General of State personally escorted them, and Mu Yunjin also brought a team, with the same purpose: to escort Mu Yunhe.
A world of difference. When Mu Yunhe arrived, he was alone and powerless, simply because he was a dying man, completely useless and ignored. But upon his return, Mu Yunhe was a diviner, and without needing anything else, this single identity made people dare not be careless or negligent, showering him with flattery and obsequiousness. 17245400
The princess's motorcade followed behind. Since Mu Qingya's death, the princess had become completely silent, locking herself in her room and refusing to come out. Hu Mama, who had taken care of her for decades, had also died, and the princess had essentially lost her right-hand woman.
As the carriages traveled into the afternoon, the caravan stopped to rest. The journey back was less urgent, allowing for a slower pace. And because Mu Yunhe was in the caravan this time, no one dared to let their guard down.
As soon as the Queen alighted from her carriage, her spies reported some things to her. Upon hearing this, the Queen frowned slightly, then snorted coldly: "Overestimating themselves! A barbarian country doesn't stay in its own country; are they planning to commit transnational crimes? Keep a close eye on their actions. If anything goes wrong, no matter what their purpose is, kill them without mercy!"
"I will obey." The scout immediately disappeared.
The wet nurse saw the king approaching from a distance. She felt a pang of unease, but her face remained extremely indifferent.
The king didn't know how to win over his sister's heart, so he smiled gently and said, "My scouts just reported that the general from the Western Barbarian Kingdom is leading his men and is following us from a distance. It seems they are after Mu Yunhe. I have already ordered my men to keep a close eye on them."
The wet nurse frowned and said, "Is it still because of Princess Aman's death? When will they ever stop? That matter has nothing to do with the young lady and the young prince. Anyone with eyes can see that."
"Don't pay them any mind. They're just clowns, probably trying to get involved with Mu Yunhe through this incident. But they've miscalculated this time. They wanted to climb up to Mu Yunhe, but instead they set their sights on Luo Zhiheng, which has hit Mu Yunhe right where it hurts. I think if they dare to make any further moves, Mu Yunhe won't let them off the hook," the Prince said gleefully.
The wet nurse despised this kind of prince and remained silent, instead going to prepare food for Luo Zhiheng and the other person.
Seeing his wet nurse bustling about and doing some frightening things, the king felt very displeased, saddened, and exasperated. He said, "Can you please stop doing these things? How can I let you do such degrading work?"
“I’ve been doing this for many years and I’m used to it. Besides, the young lady is used to my service,” the wet nurse said matter-of-factly.
“But your status is different now!” The Prince grabbed the wet nurse’s wrist, his voice cold and angry: “I will find two people to serve Luo Zhiheng for you. You don’t need to do this kind of thing anymore.”
The wet nurse scoffed inwardly. The young master had gone through so much since childhood, and where had she, his aunt, been all this time? Now she was trying to find someone to serve him, but that wouldn't make anyone remember her kindness. With the power of the Silver Moon Kingdom and the King's abilities, finding someone wouldn't be difficult. Even if they had something hidden, they could hide for a year or ten, but they could never hide forever.
But if she hadn't exposed herself this time, the King would never have discovered her connection to the Silver Moon Kingdom. He probably would never have even considered looking for them. The wet nurse dared not confide in someone like that.
"No need, I don't trust anyone else to serve the young lady." The wet nurse pushed the prince's hand away and went to get the food.
The Prince was so angry his face turned blue. How could someone be so ungrateful? This was only because she was his own sister; otherwise, he would have killed her with a single blow. He glared fiercely at Luo Zhiheng's carriage, wishing he could bore a hole through Macheng with his eyes, until he felt Mu Yunjin's gaze subtly sweep over him. Only then did the Prince leave with a cold snort.
Inside the carriage, looking at Luo Zhiheng, who was still sleeping soundly in his arms, Mu Yunhe felt completely content. His gaze was warm and sweet as he gently kissed her face, and Luo Zhiheng woke up during the kiss.
Before she could even open her eyes, she felt her breath being forcefully taken away. Mu Ran opened her eyes wide and saw Mu Yunhe's eyes, brimming with a wicked smile, gleaming close to hers. His mouth and tongue sent chills down her spine, and she felt breathless. After a slight struggle, he reluctantly released her.
"I'm about to suffocate," she complained.
Mu Yunhe grinned like a cat that had stolen some cream, playfully rubbing his cheek against hers. It was warm and smooth, and his voice was a soft, low teasing tone: "Little lazy cat, you've been sleeping all day. Is this alcohol really that strong?"
Luo Zhiheng was feeling a bit dizzy when he teased her, so she laughed and said, "How about we drink a few pounds another day and see? I don't know what you're like when you're drunk."
Mu Yunhe's eyelashes trembled slightly, and she asked in a panic, "Can I drink alcohol? Isn't drinking alcohol bad for your health?"
Luo Zhiheng's lips twitched. Was this man deliberately stirring things up? She nodded vaguely and said, "Yes, it's not good. Then you shouldn't drink it."
Mu Yunhe immediately smiled and hugged her affectionately, saying, "Aheng still cares about me the most, but I don't want to make Aheng sad. How about this, you drink, and I'll keep you company. I'll be happy if you enjoy yourself. Although I can't drink with Aheng, I'm satisfied just watching you drink."
Only when you're drunk can I do whatever I want to you. Who told you to be so docile and adorable when you're drunk?
Luo Zhiheng was surprised by Mu Yunhe's coquettishness and asked suspiciously, "You didn't do something wrong while I was drunk and unaware, did you?"
"What are you saying?" Mu Yunhe patted her butt and then laughed, "I just love watching Ah Heng drink. Hmm, she's so bold and forthright. It makes people think that my wife is truly a heroine."
Luo Zhiheng felt incredibly pleased with this flattery. She touched his face like an empress bestowing a favor on a minister and said, "Not bad, you have good taste."
The two were laughing and joking when the nanny brought over the food, arranged it, and then withdrew. Only then did Luo Zhiheng realize and ask, "Are we on our way?"
Mu Yunhe didn't even lift his eyelids. He brought a cup of hot tea to her lips and said with a smile, "So you're a little lazy cat. We've been walking for almost a day. Have some tea to soothe your throat."
Luo Zhiheng casually drank a few sips from his hand, instantly feeling a warm sensation throughout her body. She comfortably squinted her eyes and said, "You've been carrying me like this all the way?"
Mu Yunhe snorted in agreement, then put another piece of dried meat to her lips: "Eat quickly, we'll be setting off soon."
Luo Zhiheng accepted all comers without hesitation. Being served by a dignified high priest, she felt no pressure whatsoever. She only watched as Mu Yunhe's beautiful, slender hands deftly wielded the exquisite little knife, carefully slicing off even pieces of meat and then gently feeding them to her. Everything he did seemed so natural and thoughtfully considerate.
At that moment, Luo Zhiheng felt that she was being loved by him.
Although Mu Yunhe wasn't particularly good at expressing himself, and was mostly proud and awkward, he could easily capture a girl's heart with just a little bit of his gentleness. Just like now, he served her casually and unassumingly, yet everything was just right and steady, making her feel like she was being held in someone's palm and pampered and loved.
That heart is sweet.
With a smile playing on her lips, Luo Zhiheng leaned in and kissed his chin, her voice soft and tender: "It's so nice to have you by my side. So thoughtful and considerate, I feel so happy. Mu Yunhe, you're so good." Zhiheng and Qianma embraced.
Mu Yunhe was quite at ease, both in appearance and in his heart, but Luo Zhiheng's words instantly shattered his composure. He felt as if his tail had been stepped on, and his face immediately turned ugly, showing some annoyance, frustration, and awkwardness.
"Is the word 'attentive and considerate' used to describe women?" Mu Yunhe said in a low voice, feigning indifference, deliberately turning his face away from Luo Zhiheng, clearly looking awkward again.
Luo Zhiheng was taken aback, then chuckled, which drew a furious glare from Mu Yunhe, who turned his head and said angrily, "What are you laughing at? Are you mocking me for being as fussy and sentimental as a woman?"
Mu Yunhe had no friends and no experience in human relationships; his past was a blank slate. He didn't know how to conduct himself in society. He was simply living as he pleased. He wanted to be good to Luo Zhiheng, so he wanted to give her the best of everything. He wanted to be meticulous in his care for her, to do everything for her, to make every aspect of her life intimately connected to him, so close that she couldn't live without him and would think of him in everything she did.
However, Luo Zhiheng's unintentional words completely pierced Mu Yunhe's sensitive and fragile pride. Because he didn't understand, he was worried. He was afraid that Luo Zhiheng would think he was a man without any manly spirit. His sickly body had already caused him a lot of torment and challenges to his dignity. He would never let himself be associated with weakness.
Knowing she had angered the gentle lion, Luo Zhiheng smiled gently and soothed him, saying coquettishly, "I didn't say that. Do you know what kind of man is the most charming?" Seeing his suspicious look, but also the eager light in his eyes, Luo Zhiheng said, "A man who is successful, a man who walks the right path, a handsome man full of a sense of justice is very charming. Such men often have a heroic complex, are unwilling to be subordinate to others, and have an unyielding and open-minded spirit."
Mu Yunhe seemed to understand, but he also realized that the men Luo Zhiheng was referring to didn't include someone like him. He felt frustrated and flustered, but his expression remained cold. He grinned maliciously and said, "So you like men like that?"
Luo Zhiheng nodded without hesitation, and Mu Yunhe's face instantly turned ashen. The hand holding her tightened suddenly, the force so great it seemed capable of breaking her bones.
Luo Zhiheng didn't even frown, smiling brightly as she said, "I do like that kind of man, but that's not realistic. Not everyone can have such a good man. I'm realistic. I only want what I can have, and aren't you one of those men? You're good to me, willing to do things that those big men wouldn't do. You're so considerate and thoughtful, which makes me feel incredibly touched and happy. I'll like you even more, and I certainly won't think you're being fussy like a woman. If those women who admire you saw how considerate and caring you are to me today, they'd probably hate me and be incredibly jealous. And they'd love you even more."
"Have I made you happy?" Mu Yunhe's gloomy face had brightened with a smile, and the corners of his mouth curled up with intense expectation.
"Yes, I'm very happy!" Luo Zhiheng replied affirmatively.
The gloom in Mu Yunhe's eyes shattered completely, but he still tried to maintain a reserved demeanor on his face, a half-smile that couldn't be suppressed by the corners of his mouth. He snorted a few times, put on a stern face, and started cutting beef again. Then, in a serious tone, he brought a piece to her lips and said, "Then you can continue to be happy."
Luo Zhiheng laughed out loud, opened her mouth and swallowed, then teasingly licked his fingertip. The tingling sensation traveled from his fingertip to her tongue, making her heart tingle, let alone Mu Yunhe.
Mu Yunhe felt as if he had been struck by lightning. A surge of electricity rushed through his fingers and straight to his heart. His mind went blank for a moment. When he came to, his face was already on top of hers. Their hot breaths intertwined. He could hear his own heart pounding like thunder, and her alluring eyes and seductive appearance made him incredibly excited.
"Will anyone be jealous of you?" he asked, his voice soft, warm, and impatient.
"Won't you? Those women who are eyeing you so eagerly, they all seem to want to devour you. You're a precious gem, incredibly attractive in their eyes. If I can't become the most special one in your heart, I'm afraid my position will be in jeopardy," Luo Zhiheng said, seemingly joking but also self-deprecatingly.
"Would I be jealous?" Mu Yunhe's eyes brightened. Did she say that because she cared about his performance? Did Aheng care about him? This thought made him extremely happy.
“If you love me deeply, you will naturally feel jealousy.” Luo Zhiheng stroked his face, smiling smugly.
"What does jealousy feel like?" Mu Yunhe moved two steps closer to her. At that moment, there was almost no distance between them. As long as one of them spoke, they could touch each other as if kissing.
Luo Zhiheng's petal-like lips gently touched his, like soft marks: "Jealousy is when I'm with another man, even if it's just a smile, you get angry, annoyed, and hurt. Maybe there are other reactions, but I haven't experienced it, so I can't give you a complete answer."
Mu Yunhe felt as if he had been suddenly enlightened, and his whole being became clear. His eyes sparkled, and he finally understood where yesterday's anger and discomfort had come from.
So he was jealous! Jealous of Mu Yunjin? Mu Yunjin hugged her yesterday, and he was furious, wanting to destroy Mu Yunjin!
"Then I'm very jealous, and I really don't want other men to get close to you or see you. I've said that you can only be mine. Do you think I'm forcing you?" Mu Yunhe pressed, his eyes instantly turning as ruthless as a wolf's.
Luo Zhiheng smiled and said, "No, I would be honored. Because you care about me so much."
Mu Yunhe laughed heartily, kissing her flower-like lips fiercely, wantonly ravaging and tormenting them. This was the first time he had kissed her so domineeringly and wildly, even with a touch of cruelty. But only now did he finally feel that Aheng belonged entirely to him; he knew he loved this woman deeply. Because he would be jealous of her, and he would become a considerate and attentive man for her sake.
He was willing to do anything she wanted or liked.
Mu Yunjin had arrived in front of the carriage at some point and could hear intermittent sounds from inside. They weren't trying to hide their voices, which fluctuated in volume. The carriage was made of special materials, and if it weren't for his years of martial arts training and excellent hearing, he would have had a hard time hearing them. But these few words were enough to change Mu Yunjin's expression.
A nameless anger burned within him. On one hand, he felt that the nude photos were teaching Mu Yunhe things he didn't know, which was a good thing. But on the other hand, he felt that Luo Zhiheng was improper, teaching things that were vulgar, which was a bad thing! As Mu Yunhe's elder brother, he should stop it.
But his legs felt like lead, and he couldn't move. He couldn't leave, nor could he get in, so he remained frozen on the horse's back, his gaze complex as he looked at the carriage, from which came intermittent, ambiguous moans from a woman. One could imagine how passionate the scene inside was.
He inexplicably became irritable, his gaze darkening with an almost murderous intent. And at that very moment, a tremendous killing intent emanated from behind him.
Mu Yunjin instantly spurred his horse around, his pupils constricting. He immediately abandoned his horse and leaped away, miraculously dodging the vicious attack from behind. When he landed, he was already five or six meters away from the carriage. His mount, startled, neighed and galloped away.
Mu Yunjin roared angrily, her face contorted with rage, "What are you doing?!"
The wet nurse lowered her hand; she still held a scabbard. Right where Mu Yunjin had just stood, a sharp dagger was completely embedded in the ground, only the delicate tip remaining above ground. This was enough to tell everyone how dangerous and perilous the scene had just been.
The wet nurse seemed oblivious to the anger and chill in Mu Yunjin's voice. She looked at Mu Yunjin through the carriage and said coldly, "I'm not doing anything, just warning you to stay away from our young lady's carriage. It's best for bystanders to stay out of the way, otherwise your constant loitering around the carriage will give me the urge to regard you as a wicked enemy."
Mu Yunjin's face instantly darkened: "Is this how Luo Zhiheng disciplines her servants? She lets you speak to her brother-in-law like that? Hmph, like master, like servant—equally despicable!"
Almost as soon as he finished speaking, a buzzing sound came from the side, sharp enough to cleave the air. Mu Yunjin knew what it was. He turned his head in fury and saw a steel knife flying straight at him, its target being him.
Mu Yunjin spun around in mid-air, narrowly dodging the steel blade, then glared angrily at the Prince Shi, who stood not far away with his hands behind his back: "What is the meaning of this, Prince Shi? Have I offended you?"
The King sneered, "You are not qualified to provoke me. Watch your words; not everyone is someone you can insult at will. If I hear you say that again, even if you are Mu Yunhe's brother, I will not be polite to you!"
Mu Yunjin was stunned. What was the Prince's purpose? Was he targeting him because of Luo Zhiheng? Surely not because of a wet nurse? But he, a dignified young general and a rising star of the Mu Dynasty, when did he become someone who would only be spared because of Mu Yunhe's name? It was utterly ridiculous!
This little incident didn't escalate much. When they set off again, it was almost dark, and they had to travel through the night. And it was on this night that something turbulent was destined to happen.
Around midnight, the caravan continued on its way because the official road was easy to travel. But in the next moment, some horses started to neigh and hesitated, unwilling to continue. Naturally, the horses behind were forced to stop as well.
Animals are generally more sensitive than humans, and their reaction immediately alerted the caravan manager. Everyone immediately went on high alert, protecting each carriage from the front and back, and remaining vigilant about their surroundings.
All was quiet, the bright moon hung in the sky, and it was truly impossible to tell what was going on.
However, the wet nurse dared not let her guard down and stood guard outside the carriage. Qi Wan and Xiao Xizi both got into Luo Zhiheng's carriage, and they all looked nervous.
The pharaohs sent half of their guards to Mu Yunhe's side, their purpose being to protect him. Because it was so late at night, if anything happened, it would most likely be aimed at Mu Yunhe. What monarch wouldn't want a diviner? That's far more alluring than any stunning beauty.
Luo Zhiheng was alert when she saw Qi Wan looking like she was facing a formidable enemy, so she laughed and said, "Little Qi Wan, what are you so nervous about?"
Qi Wan's face was so tense that she couldn't even smile anymore: "This time, I will protect Miss properly. It's just that too many people were thrown last time. Although they were thrown out, too few died. They could only break their arms and legs. Qi Wan is useless and can't help Miss."
Luo Zhiheng smiled and patted her head, saying, "Qiwan, don't be like that. You're already very capable. If something really happens later, don't worry about me. Just protect Mu Yunhe for me, okay?"
Qi Wan lowered her head in distress; she still wanted to protect the young lady.
Xiao Xizi quickly patted his chest and said, "Your Highness, don't worry, Xiao Xizi will protect the young prince."
"Are you getting stabbed?" Luo Zhiheng teased with a half-smile, and Xiao Xizi's face instantly turned red.
Soon there was movement outside. Sure enough, there were assassins, but this time it was different from before. Last time it was a robbery, this time it was an ambush.
And it was an ambush from all sides!
"No need to hide anymore, hurry up and come out. After I've dealt with you, I'll go back to sleep." The king's lazy voice, though languid, was as sharp and majestic as a hawk's in the darkness.
As soon as she finished speaking, a series of swift, whistling sounds erupted from all directions as sharp, gleaming arrows were aimed at them. Towering mountains stretched on either side of the passage, and the mournful howls of wolves echoed from their slopes. Their situation was now equally dire: wolves in front, tigers behind, and leopards on either side. They were truly caught in a dilemma.