Chapter 970: Chapter 970 Traveling
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
“Only three years left,” Zhou Ying stated with a touch of urgency. “If there’s anything you’ve ever wanted to do, let’s do it now before it’s too late.”
Gu Chengrui understood the weight of his words. “I know. It seems I’ll be quite busy from now on. I’ll need your help at home, then.”
A moment of hesitation passed before Zhou Ying spoke again. “Perhaps we should have another child? After three years, who knows if we’ll have the chance again?”
Gu Chengrui, surprised by the suggestion, shook his head. “We already have Guoguo and Chenchen. Let fate decide on this one.”
Zhou Ying simply nodded and requested someone prepare their bath water.
Following their meal, Gu Chengrui donned his court attire and headed to the palace to report his recovery to the Emperor. He then rushed back to the hospital, eager to make the most of his remaining time. Driven by the knowledge that his days were numbered, he implemented several initiatives.
He organized another training class, focusing on Western medicine and pharmaceutical knowledge.
He diligently taught Gu Chengxi the recorded prescriptions.
He also began grooming a few capable individuals to take over the medical centers.
Meanwhile, Zhou Ying received a large amount of faith after aiding the Western Continent during a flood. To her astonishment, her divine sense range had more than doubled.
In return, she gifted them a variety of grain seeds.
Zhou Ying procured rubber trees for improved travel and convenience and had tires, pressure wells, and other inventions constructed, significantly enhancing people’s daily lives.
Furthermore, she implemented the use of bicycles after the Great Ming’s steel refinement process was perfected.
These innovative advancements solidified Gu Wanning’s position in the palace.
Two and a half years flew by.
Zhou Ying decided to have another child and was blessed with another son.
Coincidentally, Gu Wanning also gave birth to a baby girl after many years, finally completing her family with a child of each gender.
One day, as Zhou Ying fed their youngest son, nicknamed Third Fatty, Gu Chengrui entered the room. He playfully pinched the baby’s chubby cheeks. “Third Fatty’s hungry again. If you eat any more, you’ll become a little pig!” Zhou Ying chuckled. “How can you say that about our son? Being slightly chubby is healthy! Besides, he’s not particularly fat, right, Third Fatty?” She followed her words by feeding the baby another bite of shredded chicken porridge.
Third Fatty, oblivious to the conversation, happily patted his chubby belly and exclaimed, “Fat, fat!”
Zhou Ying, ignoring his antics, turned to Gu Chengrui. “Why are you back so early today?”
“Finished my duties early,” Gu Chengrui replied. “There’s still almost half a year left. I thought it would be nice for you to take a break and visit our hometown.”
Zhou Ying’s eyes lit up. “That’s true, I haven’t had a chance to relax since coming here.”
The next day, they informed the Emperor of their planned trip. Despite his initial reluctance, he conceded in recognition of their years of service. The Emperor even entrusted Gu Chengrui with a token.
“While you’re traveling,” the Emperor instructed, “keep an eye out for any major corruption cases. If necessary, you can take action before reporting back to me.”
Gu Chengrui grimaced. “Your Majesty, please spare me! This is supposed to be a family vacation.”
The Emperor chuckled, undeterred. “I’m not asking for detailed investigations. Just report anything serious you come across. It won’t delay your trip, I promise.”
“If you’re worried, why not travel in disguise?” Gu Chengrui suggested.
“That’s a good idea,” the Emperor admitted, “but the palace can’t do without me for too long. Maybe in another two years, when Wanning matures a bit, traveling in disguise might be an option.”
“Alright,” Gu Chengrui conceded, understanding his limitations. Since the task wasn’t mandatory, there was no need to push it.