Arriving at Yangzhou

Additionally, an undisclosed team of ten covert guards discreetly trailed them, unbeknownst to anyone except Shao Yunduan. His role was to assist the Crown Prince in resolving financial issues, and it was imperative to ensure his safety, granting him the freedom to act as needed. The ten secret guards had been assigned precisely for this purpose.

Shao Yunduan had arranged for a double-decker ship to embark on their journey through the canal. Joining them on this voyage were Qiao Xuan, Lixia, Liqiu, Sun Bai, and Sun Qian, along with two advisors from the East Palace, and a handful of assistants and servants. The chill of spring had limited Qiao Xuan's outdoor activities, forcing them to only venture out in the mornings for a breath of fresh air.