Chapter 20 A Silver Lining (2/2)

Yun Shang lowered her eyes, and quietly spoke,” I know, father. I am not afraid. If I have to do this all over again, I would still pray for rain for our people. Father, please take good care of yourself when I am away. Don't work too hard with the memorials*, make sure you eat and sleep on time.”

(*TN: A memorial to the throne was an official communication to the Emperor of China. They were generally careful essays in Classical Chinese and their presentation was a formal affair directed by government officials.)

The Emperor nodded,” I will.”

Yun Shang smiled and nodded,” Father, please take care of the affairs of the State. I don't want you to watch me leave, lest I will cry. I may be away for a while, but I will return.”

Emperor Ning nodded, and turned to Master Wu Na,” Master, we can wait in Qinzheng Hall while Shang'er is packing. I also have some other questions that need your opinion.”

Then, the Emperor led Master Wu Na out.

After Emperor Ning left, Qin Meng straightened herself, and walked up to Yun Shang's bed,” Your Highness! Take me with you to Ning'guo temple, please! It's so boring there. I can tell you many jokes and tales to relieve you from the boredom!”

Yun Shang smiled, and thought to herself, that Qin Meng was indeed quick-minded. She ordered,” Life at Ning'guo temple must be plain. I don't want someone who could only talk with me there. I want someone who can cook delicacies for me, who can take good care of me. You are too young for that. You need to stay in the Palace. I'll take Qin Yi with me.”

Qin Yi entered the chamber just as they were talking, and said,” Your Highness, Lin has given me your orders. I'll start packing.”

Yun Shang nodded,” Father has told me to bring only one maid with me. Are you willing to come? The monastic life is poor and simple. And I want you to know that before you make your decision.”

Qin Yi smiled,” What are you talking about, Your Highness? I will follow you everywhere. I've already survived all kinds of hardship before I came to serve you, Your Highness. Be assured that I will be just fine at the temple.”

”Good. Everyone hurry up. Let's not keep Master Wu Na waiting. Qin Meng, you and Lin will do the packing. Qin Yi, you stay here with me.” Qin Meng dared not disobey Yun Shang. Even though she was unwilling, she had to quietly retreat.

”Qin Yi, did my mother send for Master Wu Na? I also heard the Master speak of a Mr. Yuanshan. Who is that?” Yun Shang drew her closer, and asked what had been bothering her.

Qin Yi smiled,” I don't know whether Lady Jin sent for Master Wu Na. But I know Mr. Yuanshan. Your Highness, your grandfather's name is Xiao Yuanshan. Don't you remember?”

Yun Shang seemed confused a moment. Then she smiled. ”I forgot that.”

”By the way, Qin Yi, what about Lady Jin? Will something bad happen to her if I just go away like this? What if there's no one taking care of her?” Yun Shang hurriedly asked.

Qin Yi shook her head, and smiled,” Your Highness, be assured. Her Highness isn't that weak. And someone is taking care of her secretly. Her Highness will be fine.”

”I see.” Yun Shang nodded,” Then I am relieved.”