Blossom In Adversity - Vol. 2

C230. Journey To The South.

Chapter 230: Journey To The South

The dock was a bustling hive of activity, filled with people coming and going. Hua Zhi stood at the bow of the ship, watching the faces filled with joy, sorrow, and anticipation. She thought back to the night before Yan Xi left, remembering the reluctance in his eyes as he bid her farewell.

It was strange. Despite his high position, he was always the one who wore his emotions on his sleeve.

She wasn't without her own feelings of reluctance, but she was so accustomed to parting that even knowing she wouldn't see him for at least a month, she felt it was merely a fleeting moment. Some habits, once formed, could last a lifetime.

She couldn't help but feel a sense of regret for not being able to understand that feeling.

Wondering where Yan Xi might be now, Hua Zhi was about to return to the cabin when someone called out, "Miss Hua?"

Hua Zhi turned around. She had not disguised herself or worn a veil, standing boldly at the bow of the ship. Her already striking beauty was even more eye-catching against the backdrop of the vast expanse of water and sky. Many eyes were drawn to her, but none as intensely as those of the man standing before her.

After a brief glance, Hua Zhi gave a slight bow and turned to leave, a gesture that was both polite and a clear indication of her refusal.

She didn't want to get involved in a romantic scandal while Yan Xi was away.

The man was taken aback for a moment. He took a couple of steps forward before stopping and smiled meaningfully. Regardless of where Miss Hua was going, the nearest port was at least two days away, and there would always be opportunities to strike up a conversation.

It was quite a surprise to encounter Miss Hua, whom he had been unable to find even while keeping a constant watch near the Hua residence.

Hua Zhi paid him no mind. As she entered the cabin, she saw Shao Yao sprawled out on the bed, fast asleep. The previous night, she had been tinkering with something in the medicine room and had brought a large package aboard.

The Sixth Prince, who had been lost in thought, looked up at the sound of her footsteps and quickly stood up. He still couldn't believe that Sister Hua would actually take him on a journey. This was the first time he had been so far away from the imperial palace, and he would be going even farther. Just thinking about it made his heart race.

"The ship is about to set sail. I heard it's quite a sight when the anchor is raised. Don't you want to go out and see it?"

The Sixth Prince shook his head. He wasn't interested in such things. He was more curious about why Sister Hua had brought him along.

"Mr. Lu suggested it. He said you've never left the imperial city, so I thought I'd bring you out to see what the world is really like." Hua Zhi could see what he was thinking and kindly explained, "If you don't want to go, you can still get off the ship now."

"I want to go. I really do," the Sixth Prince said, biting his lip. "Will it cause any trouble for Sister Hua?"

"No, it won't. How about a game of go?"

"Okay."

The journey would take about ten days, and Hua Zhi had brought some books to pass the time, as well as a go set. She didn't want to waste these days.

The Sixth Prince's go playing had gradually improved, but he was still a bit young. However, for his age, he was quite good. Hua Zhi played casually, thinking that she would have a game with Yan Xi when she had the chance. Based on her analysis of his playing style, he was an aggressive player, and she enjoyed a good match.