By the time Lian Hua reached the fork leading to the Harem and the Imperial Garden at the Star Palace, she spotted a Palace Maid walking by the roadside, holding something in her hands. The maid's eyes widened in disbelief, as if she had seen a ghost.
Lian Hua passed by the Palace Maid without a hint of emotion, followed by Xiao Linzi as the two made their way into the distance.
Upon returning to Canglan Court, Lian Hua's gaze softened.
Entering the courtyard, she found Xiao Jizi hunched over with his back to her, looking despondent, while Xiao Qing stood in front of him, speaking about something, her eyes swollen like walnuts.
Seeing them, warmth flooded Lian Hua's heart, and a heat spread around her eyes. She called out, "Xiao Qing, Xiao Jizi, I'm back."
"Young Master!" They both exclaimed in unison.
Xiao Qing, with her swollen eyes, ran over, tugging anxiously at Lian Hua, "Young Master, are you alright?" she asked.