As General Jianyu left the imperial court, his thoughts were torn between the weight of his military responsibilities and a desire to seek solace. His steps led him to the imperial garden, where the serene gazebo housed Mei Ling engrossed in a book. A moment of contemplation ensued—should he greet her or pass by?
Jianyu, unable to resist the warmth of familial connection, approached Mei Ling. Greeting her with a respectful nod, he saw a smile blossom on her face. Mei Ling recognized the tanned figure before her as her brother Yu, but propriety prevailed, and she addressed him as "General Jianyu."
A mix of emotions played across Jianyu's face as they exchanged pleasantries. His concern for Mei Ling's well-being surfaced, and he inquired about the rumored assassination attempt. Mei Ling, feeling a bit uncomfortable, briefly explained the situation. However, the mood shifted when Jianyu's gaze lingered on her abdomen.
Sensing the awkwardness, Mei Ling instinctively covered her tummy, wondering if Jianyu knew about her prayers at the temple for a child. The silence lingered, broken only by Jianyu's subordinate reminding him of their duties. With a curt goodbye, Jianyu left the garden, his demeanor returning to the stoic general.
As they walked away, Jianyu instructed his subordinate to discreetly summon a doctor to his chamber. Living near the palace but avoiding the royal trappings, Jianyu opted for simplicity. After a refreshing bath, he changed into a black robe, a reflection of his reserved nature. The doctor arrived, tending to Jianyu's wounds and prescribing medicine.
Old Nanny Wu, a trusted figure in Jianyu's life and the keeper of his late mother's memories, brewed the prescribed medicine. As Jianyu consumed the bitter concoction, he showed no sign of discomfort. He proceeded to his study room, a sanctuary of memories and solitude.
Opening a drawer, Jianyu revealed an old painting—a portrait of a radiant 15-year-old girl holding an azalea flower. It was a gift he had bestowed upon her as a symbol of her coming of age. The painting captured her smile as she delicately sniffed the flower, and Jianyu's fingers traced the contours of her face in the faint image.
A faint smile played on Jianyu's lips, his thoughts transported to a bygone era. The painting encapsulated a cherished memory, and as he sat in the quiet study room, the echo of the past resonated, momentarily providing solace amidst the complexities of the present.