Chapter 948 Evading

Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation

Gu Wanning understood what Zhou Ying was indicating to her about He Jiahui’s pregnancy.

She smiled reassuringly. “Don’t worry, I will.”

Leaving aside suspicion from the Emperor, silencing gossip from meddling ministers is reason enough for her to tolerate it.

Zhou Ying saw her acceptance and felt a pang of sympathy. It was clear Gu Wanning had endured much to maintain her position.

“Still, if you need anything—food cravings, anything at all—just ask Eunuch Sun to send word to the residence. I’ll bring it myself.”

“Thankyou, but that won’t be necessary for now. The Emperor wants to move us to the summer palace to escape the heat. But please do keep the wine flowing.”

“No problem. I planted another 200 acres of grapes this year. You’ll have plenty.”

“Excellent! Set aside a thousand pounds for us. The Grand Empress Dowager and the Emperor enjoy it too.”

“Of course. I should get going.” After saying their goodbyes, Zhou Ying left the palace with Guoguo and Shizhu.

Niu Fugui had just returned when he arrived with an invitation. It was from the Minister of War, the Chu family, for their youngest daughter’s coming-of-age ceremony.

Zhou Ying recalled that the minister’s daughters were already married. “Is this a daughter from a concubine?” she asked.

“No, she’s the merchant daughter of Lord Chu’s younger brother.”

Zhou Ying nodded. “Then send a gift in my name, Uncle Niu. I won’t attend.”

Niu Fugui hesitated. “But I heard this young lady is marrying the second son of the He family—He Pin’s relatives?”

“The He family?” Zhou Ying paused. “Ah, I heard the wedding’s at the end of the year.”

“Regardless, we should maintain distance from the Chu family and avoid forming alliances.”

“Understood,” Niu Fugui replied before leaving.

Alone, Zhou Ying sighed. He Jiahui’s pregnancy worried her. Hopefully, it was just her anxiety. She relayed the news to Gu Chengrui so he could be prepared.

Gu Chengrui smiled. “Relax. The Emperor isn’t easily manipulated. He has his own power base, along with the Retired Emperor’s legacy. Anyone scheming against him is asking for trouble. We’ll just observe.”

“Oh, right. Casual friendships with court officials are fine, but avoid intimacy.”

“Any signs, perhaps?” Zhou Ying asked.

“Some ministers are urging the Emperor to appoint a crown prince.”

“The First Prince?”

“Most likely, barring any unforeseen events.”

“Being the second prince isn’t easy. History shows young crown princes rarely ascend the throne. They often meet tragic ends.”