Blossom in Adversity

C173. Little White Rabbit, Ah Jian.

Chapter 173: Little White Rabbit, Ah Jian

In the tranquil serenity of the farm estate, Hua Zhi listened intently as Dongzi recounted the latest news he had gathered.

"They say the Emperor is gravely ill. The head of the Seven Stars Bureau has assumed power and the officials who were arrested have been executed today. I managed to sneak into the city early and caught a glimpse of the execution," Dongzi paused, gauging Hua Zhi's reaction. "They say the new leader has promoted many officials. The entire city is abuzz with these developments. Oh, and there's more. The First Prince, who was under house arrest, has been stripped of his royal title and exiled to the northern frontier."

Hua Zhi nodded slightly, "You've done well."

Dongzi bowed and withdrew.

With her expectations confirmed, a sense of relief washed over Hua Zhi. She exhaled slowly and gave the order, "Pack our things. We're returning."

Before departing, Hua Zhi made one last inspection of the rooms where the spores were cultivated. After offering some final instructions to the elderly caretakers, she set off for home.

As her carriage entered the city, she lifted the curtain and glanced out. The city was no longer under such strict lockdown, and the patrols had diminished. However, the streets were noticeably less crowded, and those who were out and about seemed hurried and anxious.

"Green Moss Alley will likely be affected, but it's only temporary. Fu Dong, please go there tomorrow and reassure everyone."

"Yes, miss."

Even within the Hua household, there was a palpable sense of unease. Although the family was not directly involved in the political turmoil, the dramatic events unfolding in the capital had naturally caused alarm.

Master Mu had not visited for two days due to the lockdown. Fortunately, the academy had granted students an extended holiday for the same reason. Yang Sui'an had temporarily taken over as the senior tutor, ensuring that the students continued their studies.

Thanks to the efforts of the adults, the children remained calm. The household was filled with a quiet tension, until Hua Zhi's carriage pulled into the courtyard. Upon hearing the news, the women rushed out to greet her. Seeing her serene expression, their hearts began to settle.

Zhu shi, Hua Zhi's mother, took her daughter's hand. Words failed her, but her joy was evident.

Wu shi, her aunt, smiled, "If you hadn't returned soon, your elder sister would have searched for you at the Zhuangzi Manor."

"As if you wouldn't have done the same," Zhu shi retorted playfully, her mood visibly lightening. "You must be tired. Go and rest. We'll have dinner at Mother's place tonight."

"Okay. Bai Lin and I will join you," Hua Zhi replied, changing the subject. She turned to her aunt, "Fourth Aunt, please help Mother back to her room."

Zhu shi favored appeasement, after whispering a few words to Wu shi, they both promptly retreated to the back courtyard. The front courtyard was bustling with servants and attendants, making her feel slightly uneasy.

The others didn't dare delay her matters, so after a few words with her, they all dispersed one by one.

As Hua Zhi entered the courtyard, she paused as she looked at the house where the Sixth Prince resided. She turned back and gestured to close the courtyard gate.

The gate was tightly shut, and she lightly knocked on it, "Ah Jian."

The door opened with a response, and the Sixth Prince greeted her with a hint of joy, "Hua Jiejie, you're back."