As she was deep in thought, she seemed to catch a glimpse of a vibrant color flash across Ling Mo's body, and a sense of surprise arose in her heart.
Ling Mo always wore a simple white robe, as if he were untouched by worldly affairs. Apart from the sword hanging at his waist, he never wore any fancy ornaments. So what exactly is this bright color?
Out of curiosity, she couldn't help but take a closer look.
Ling Mo had one hand discreetly behind his back, as if trying to hide something in his hand, but the delicate flower that slung out from his waist ruthlessly revealed his secret.
Jiang Huaiyu's eyes and brows were filled with a joyful smile. He lightly tapped the flower with his finger and teased, "Young Master Ling is a master of painting and calligraphy. It is no ordinary person to caress flowers and the moon. Why do you need to hide it?"
"To caress the flowers and moon?"
A faint smile appeared on Ling Moqing's face. He raised one eyebrow and replied, "I just listened to Master Jiang's insightful opinion. He has a great understanding of the materials used in Jizhou brocade and his insights are unique. However, he knows nothing about the customs of Wusu."
"Oh, what kind of custom?"
Ling Mo gently pulled out the bouquet from his back. "In the land of Wusu, flowers are everywhere. Since ancient times, people of all ages and genders have had the tradition of wearing flowers. Just now, while I was gathering information ahead, I met a flower seller carrying a flower basket. Seeing that the hibiscus was blooming so beautifully, I chose this one."
Jiang Huaiyu's smile grew even brighter, her eyes curving into a beautiful arc.
"No distinction between men and women? If that's really the case, then I'll wait and see."
Whether in her past life or this life, she had never witnessed Ling Mo, who was as aloof as ice, actually wearing a flower on his own initiative.
She naturally didn't want to miss such a rare sight.
Seeing the expectant glint in her eyes, Ling Mo couldn't help but smile gently. "Why should I wear flowers in my hair?"
He wanted to explain that as a man and not a local of Urumqi, there was no need for him to wear flowers.
Jiang Huaiyu misunderstood his meaning and sighed with a hint of disappointment: "Indeed, if Young Master Ling really wears this flower in his hair, with Young Master Ling's charm, it might even overshadow the hibiscus's beauty, leaving people confused as to whether they appreciate the flower's beauty or are captivated by your charm?"
Ling Mo's eyes sparkled with amusement, but his face showed a helpless expression as he gently shook his head.
"Master Jiang's eloquence is truly astounding. I dare not keep this hibiscus; if Master Jiang does not mind, please accept it."
As he spoke, he handed her the hibiscus flower he was holding.
Jiang Huaiyu accepted it with a smile and said softly, "Since Young Master Ling does not wish to take it, then I shall respectfully accept it."
This hibiscus flower is exceptionally beautiful, with lush green leaves and layers of pale pink petals that exude a captivating radiance, making it irresistible at first sight.
She gently plucked a flower and tucked it into her hair.
Ling Mo glanced at her gently and smiled, praising, "With a beautiful woman in the same carriage, her face as radiant as a hibiscus flower, dazzling like a star, these flowers should complement her beauty."
His praise was an exaggeration.
A blush rose on Jiang Huaiyu's cheeks as she realized that wearing the flowers he had given her seemed somewhat impolite.
However, taking it off at this point is not the best course of action.
Just as she was hesitating, Ling Mo suddenly spoke up: "The procession has started. I'll go take care of the horses. Master Jiang, please get in the carriage as well."
Jiang Huaiyu nodded slightly, feeling somewhat relieved, but his expression showed no sign of anything amiss.
Could it be that she was overthinking things?
At the foot of Wusu City, the city gate guards held the portraits of the fugitives tightly, comparing them one by one with the passersby. Anyone who looked similar was led aside for a thorough examination.
As Jiang Huaiyu passed by, she glanced briefly at the portrait. The portrait depicted a middle-aged man with an unremarkable face, except for a long, prominent scar on his jawline, which added a touch of ferocity to his features.
After stepping through the city gate, Jiang Huaiyu finally spoke, "Why go to such lengths to arrest this person? What crime has he committed?"
Ling Mo gently shook his head and replied, "The details are unknown, but judging from the situation, this person does not seem to have infiltrated the city yet."
If the fugitive is indeed hiding in Wusu City, then the government's search should focus on those who leave the city, not those who enter. Therefore, it is clear that the wanted criminal is not currently in the city.
Jiang Huaiyu nodded slightly and pondered, "With the government making such a big show of things, I'm afraid he'll be captured as soon as he shows his face."
Ling Mo added, "If he were a shrewd person, he should stay far away from trouble."
The two chatted casually for a few minutes and didn't take the matter to heart.
They found an inn in the city to rest for a while. After resting for a while, Jiang Huaiyu planned to go out to find out information, but Ling Mo stopped her.
“Master Jiang, you are six months pregnant and should not overexert yourself. Just rest at the inn. You can leave the task of gathering information to me and Li Kui.”
"this……"
Jiang Huaiyu composed himself, slowly shook his head, and said firmly, "Young Master Ling, you have taken great care of me along the way, and I am deeply grateful. Now that we have arrived in Wusu, I cannot delay your journey any longer because of personal matters. Besides, you still have to go to Suzhou, which is several days' journey from Wusu. You should rest a bit and prepare to set off."
“I have no urgent business in Suzhou, so there’s no need to rush. You’ll be left alone in Wusu, dealing with the officials, and I’m afraid you’ll encounter many difficulties. I might as well help you settle things here before I go to Suzhou.”
"How can this be done?"
Jiang Huaiyu felt deeply guilty. She sighed and said, "Young Master Ling, you have already lent a helping hand so many times. I am truly embarrassed to trouble you with so much effort again. Otherwise, I really don't know how to repay your kindness!"
Her seemingly humble yet resolute refusal appeared both sincere and firm.
Ling Mo suddenly felt a little heavy-hearted.
He didn't understand what was wrong with him.
She is exceptionally intelligent, calm, brave, and decisive; it seems there is no problem in the world that she cannot solve.
Originally, these trivial matters would not have posed any serious challenge to her, but he still wanted to protect her and did not want to see her so tired.
Although she had someone else in her heart, and was even pregnant with that person's child.
Ling Mo's expression remained flat and expressionless, his tone indifferent: "That day, it was you who lent a helping hand, resolving my crisis facing Princess Linchuan and saving my life. Therefore, everything I have done for you is insignificant. Besides, I have always valued loyalty and righteousness, and I have already stated my position: there is no need for thanks between friends. Master Jiang, are you being so distant? Do you not consider me a friend?"
"Don't mention it!" Jiang Huaiyu replied immediately, her voice sincere. "Young Master Ling is a man of deep affection and loyalty. It is my greatest honor to have met you."
"Then there's no need for these polite words anymore; I'm already tired of hearing them."
Ling Mo's expression was slightly displeased, as if he had returned to the cold and aloof look he had when they first met under the moonlight.
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