The next day, Hua Yan awoke to find Yun Chi no longer by her side. Having grown accustomed to seeing him upon waking these past few days, his sudden absence took her by surprise.
She moved her body, still somewhat weak, but thankfully, it seemed she had regained some strength. Slowly, she propped herself up into a sitting position.
Her movements were very slight, yet they startled Little Zhongzi, who was on guard outside. He softly called out, testing, "Crown Princess Consort, have you awakened?"
Hua Yan uttered a sound of affirmation.
Little Zhongzi promptly said, "His Highness had urgent matters to attend to. He left the temporary palace before dawn, and as he left, he ordered this servant to guard here and listen carefully for your awakening. Once you awoke, I was to let Caiqing, the maid chosen yesterday, serve you."
Hua Yan nodded, "Alright, let her come in."
