He wished he could immerse himself in the world of calligraphy and painting, as if everything outside was irrelevant to him.
Today, the fifth prince, who has always lived a secluded life and was immersed in calligraphy and painting, suddenly requested an audience.
Such unusual behavior aroused Ning Chenyi's curiosity, which spread rapidly in his heart like vines.
He nodded slightly, a gesture that, though subtle, carried the authority and unquestionable air of someone long accustomed to a high position, signaling for someone to summon the Fifth Prince.
Having received the decree, the young eunuch, as nimble and light as a swallow, turned and hurriedly retreated, his footsteps fading into the quiet corridor.
Before long, the heavy door of the Imperial Study was slowly pushed open, making a slight creaking sound, as if breaking the tranquility of the space.
Ning Chenxing stepped into the room with seemingly steady yet subtly mysterious steps.
He raised his head slightly, his gaze like a sharp hook, precisely landing on Ning Chenyi, who was in a high position.
In that brief moment of interaction, a barely perceptible glint of malice flashed in his eyes, which were like a deep, cold pool.
Its sinister aura was like a venomous snake lurking in the depths of darkness, exuding a chilling presence that seemed capable of devouring a person in an instant.
Then, a hint of determination rippled across his eyes.
His expression carried a sense of determination and confidence, as if everything was under his control.
However, Ning Chenyi, who was filled with curiosity about the sudden visit of his fifth brother, was just like a child who was captivated by something new.
Completely absorbed in this sudden surprise, they did not notice the fleeting yet meaningful subtle change.
After all, the royal family's offspring are not numerous to begin with, like sparse stars dotting the vast night sky, each one carrying the family's hopes and glory.
The six siblings grew up together within the tall and imposing walls of the palace, spending countless innocent and playful days together.
In the spring, they chased butterflies in the Imperial Garden, their laughter echoing among the flowers.
In the summer, they frolicked by the cool pool, the splashing water reflecting their innocent faces.
On an autumn night, they looked up at the starry sky together and made a wish upon a shooting star.
In winter, they built a snowman in the snow, and the snowman seemed to bear witness to their deep friendship.
Time has left its mark on them, and their relationship has become like fine wine, growing richer and more intimate with age.
Ning Chenyi never had the slightest doubt in his heart, believing that his younger brother, who was always quiet and reserved, was as calm and unperturbed as a tranquil lake.
They would covet the supreme yet thorny throne.
Moreover, the heavy responsibilities and pressures of this throne weighed heavily on his heart, like a towering mountain, often making him feel suffocated.
If fate hadn't relentlessly pushed him to this position, if he had even the slightest other choice, why would he have been willing to be trapped in the confines of this imperial palace?
Should we shoulder the myriad and complex affairs of state and give up a free and unrestrained life?
He often fantasized in his heart that he could be as carefree and unrestrained as his second brother, traveling the world with his beloved empress like a free-spirited hermit.
To appreciate the magnificent mountains and beautiful rivers of the world—what an enviable and delightful thing that would be!
The second prince and his wife were deeply in love. After their marriage, they embarked on a journey full of unknowns and surprises.
Their footprints covered almost the entire Chengxiao land, from the vast grasslands in the north, where horses galloped under the blue sky and white clouds, and the wind blew the grass low to reveal the magnificent scene of cattle and sheep.
Go to the misty, rainy Jiangnan region in the south, where small bridges, flowing water, and traditional houses create a picturesque and graceful landscape.
From the vast, boundless sea in the east, waves crash against the reefs, creating a magnificent and awe-inspiring scene where the sea and sky merge into one.
To the west, to the towering mountains and majestic peaks, a mysterious realm shrouded in mist and clouds.
They were captivated by the beauty of the world, experiencing the customs and traditions of different regions, as if writing their own legend.
They have only recently returned to Beijing, like migratory birds making a brief stopover.
I heard that they've only come back for a short rest and to recuperate. In a few days, they'll pack their bags again and set off for the next unknown adventure.
He recalled how his second brother had confidently patted his chest, his eyes gleaming with determination, saying he would become his Grand General of the Expedition.
They made outstanding contributions to expanding the country's territory, and their lofty aspirations still seem to echo in my ears.
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