Chapter 1318: The Crown Prince

Editor: Henyee Translations

While Qiao Xuan wasn’t concerned about people accusing her of jealousy, a bit of apprehension lingered in her mind.

Regrettably, she had to reluctantly shelve her short-term plans for now. Once the current matter was resolved, she would arrange another trip before the New Year.

Seeing her disappointed expression, Shao Yunduan couldn’t help but chuckle. He playfully pinched her cheek and reassured her with a gentle smile, saying, “Don’t worry, I’ll accompany you before the New Year. We can enjoy the early autumn scenery by the South River, and if we’re quick, we might set off in late autumn.”

Qiao Xuan’s face brightened with happiness. “That sounds wonderful! Jiangnan must have its own unique charm in the early autumn and winter!”

And, not to mention, there should be plenty of crabs!

Qiao Xuan had been concerned that circumstances might change. Obtaining leave was no easy feat for civil servants nowadays, especially when it meant leaving the capital. Shao Yunduan was highly regarded in the East Palace, and any departure could raise suspicions of secret dealings or political maneuvering.

With these thoughts in mind, Qiao Xuan hesitated. She gently tugged at Shao Yunduan’s sleeve, looking up at him as she proposed, “How about… you don’t go? I can go on my own! We can simply inform them that I’ve gone to a nunnery to partake in vegetarian meals and pray for blessings. I won’t be back for a while!”

“Better yet, we don’t need to provide any explanation at all.”

In truth, she wasn’t a prominent figure, and her absence for a month or two wouldn’t raise many questions. The only person who truly cared about her was her husband.

However, Shao Yunduan wasn’t inclined to agree.

As far as he was concerned, if they could be together, then they should be together. He had no desire to leave his wife, particularly in this season. Returning to an empty room at night and sleeping alone was a prospect he found quite uncomfortable. Having his wife by his side, even if they simply embraced each other and drifted off to sleep, made for a much more restful slumber.

Shao Yunduan smiled and reassured her, “Don’t worry, as soon as I mention it, the Crown Prince will make the necessary arrangements for us. There are plenty of tasks that need attention in the south before the new year, so we can be assigned one of them.”

Qiao Xuan was momentarily surprised, but then she playfully tapped her forehead, suddenly realizing the solution. “I can’t believe I overlooked that!”

They exchanged smiles.

Indeed, Shao Yunduan could contribute to the Crown Prince’s coffers during his trip to Jiangnan before the new year.

Like every household, the East Palace had its own substantial expenses to cover before the lunar new year. It was an annual endeavor filled with meticulous planning and, at times, even involved diverting resources from one area to another. Few could fathom the extent of their financial struggles.

It wasn’t that the Emperor didn’t know how to reward his people; however, the rewards typically consisted of valuable antiques, luxurious clothing, exquisite brocades, and exotic tributes from around the world. Silver, on the other hand, was often limited to a mere thousand taels, which was far from sufficient.

The East Palace had to maintain its prestige, but their assets couldn’t be pawned or sold. If news of such actions were to circulate, it would be a great embarrassment for the Crown Prince. Accusations and petitions would flood the imperial court like falling snow.

This year, Shao Yunduan had discreetly provided 350,000 taels of silver to the East Palace, which had significantly bolstered the Crown Prince’s financial standing. It allowed him to undertake endeavors that had previously been beyond his reach.

The Crown Prince was delighted with the newfound resources at his disposal.

Now, as the new year approached, whenever Shao Yunduan hinted at the need to travel south to earn money, the Crown Prince would undoubtedly arrange everything for him.

After all, who would willingly choose a life of comfort when there were opportunities to make substantial gains?