Rebirth: The Journey of an Heiress novel Chapter 257

Chapter 257: Chapter 254: Join the Army_1

Chapter 257: Chapter 254: Join the Army_1

Gao Demao dismounted upon seeing the situation and led the squad of imperial guards towards the direction of the triumphant returning army.

The counselor, Ren Shijie, who had returned to Dadu City before the Crown Prince, followed closely behind Gao Demao, bringing people from the Crown Prince’s residence to greet the Crown Prince.

Upon seeing Xiao Rongyan, Ren Shijie smiled and nodded in greeting.

The common people also followed behind Gao Demao, heading towards the triumphant army.

Lu Yuanpeng, unable to contain his excitement, pulled Xiao Rongyan and quickly squeezed towards the triumphant army.

Soon, the generals dismounted while the Crown Prince, King Yan of Xiliang Li Zhijie, and Princess Li Tianfu of Xiliang all came to the front to receive the imperial edict.

“His Majesty’s edict. Regarding the battle in the southern regions, the Crown Prince, Miss Bai, and all the generals have worked hard. Except for the Crown Prince, others do not need to report to the palace. Each returns home to rest! The triumphant Jin Army will be led back by General Zhang Duanrui for reorganization and will be rewarded another day. The sacred deer will be taken care of by the Crown Prince’s people. King Yan and the Princess of Xiliang will temporarily reside at the posthouse to restore their energy and come to the palace for a banquet tomorrow.”

The Emperor’s edict mentioned only that a banquet would be held the next day but did not specify whether it was to celebrate the southern victory or to welcome King Yan and the Princess of Xiliang.

At this moment, Bai Qingyan and Bai Jinzhi were already eager to return home. Not reporting to the palace was better for them.

Although the victorious generals, when accompanied by soldiers directly to the Imperial Palace, receiving the public’s admiration and cheers was the moment of highest honor, Bai Qingyan was no longer at the youthful and flamboyant age to care about such vanity.

The Crown Prince rose after receiving the edict and exchanged a few polite words with King Yan Li Zhijie. Turning back to look at Bai Qingyan, seeming to fear that she might be displeased, he said: “The people all know that you are the hero who defeated Xiliang this time. Even without going to the palace… the people all know it! I will certainly secure the recognition you deserve!”

“Your Highness, rest assured, I have no dissatisfaction and… am eager to return home!” Bai Qingyan earnestly said to the Crown Prince.

The Crown Prince nodded to Bai Qingyan before noticing Lu Yuanpeng, who was staring eagerly at Bai Qingyan, and Xiao Rongyan, who was holding him back.

“Rong Yan…” The Crown Prince called out in surprise and then, with a somewhat ambiguous smile, glanced at Bai Qingyan.

The gentle and elegant Xiao Rongyan stepped forward, smiling as he saluted the Crown Prince: “Rong, congratulates Your Highness, and General Bai… on the victorious return. I came to the southern part of the city today, upon hearing of Your Highness’s return, to greet you.”

The Crown Prince looked at Bai Qingyan with a smile and said mysteriously: “I know well whom you have come to greet! I heard from General Bai… that you were in Nanyan not long ago?”

Bai Qingyan raised her eyes to meet Xiao Rongyan’s deep and intense gaze, gripping the sword at her waist, her expression unwavering.

She believed Xiao Rongyan was wise enough to know how to cover this lie before the Crown Prince.

Xiao Rongyan almost did not hesitate and replied with a smile, speaking slowly: “Indeed. Speaking of this matter… I must thank Your Highness for allowing my convoy to accompany the army, ensuring the safe passage of that cargo! I will discuss the matters of Nanyan in detail with Your Highness once you have rested.”

“Good!” The Crown Prince shot another glance at Bai Qingyan, then grasped Xiao Rongyan’s wrist, “Rongyan, ride with me. I have something to discuss with you!”

“Yes…”