The Broken Wheel

As the sun began its descent, their trip ended, and they decided to return to the palace, satisfied with the day's adventure.

"You were right, Gu Yunzhi-ge." Han Aeng remarked with a contented sigh, "It would have been a shame to miss out on these enchanting experiences. Thank you for showing me all these beautiful places."

Gu Yunzhi leaned casually against the wall of the carriage. "It was my pleasure, Aeng-mei. I'm glad you enjoyed it. And anytime you need a break from him," he nodded subtly toward Long Dahai, "you know who to call."

"I'll keep that in mind." Han Aeng's light laughter danced through the air. 

Throughout their day out, Gu Yunzhi assumed the role of the enthusiastic guide, encouraging her to step out of her comfort zone, try new things, and share her thoughts and feelings about the various activities and sights they encountered.

Gu Yunzhi effortlessly fostered an atmosphere of closeness and nurtured a sense of intimacy and friendship by insisting that she address him with the endearing title 'Yunzhi-ge,' and reciprocating by embracing the title 'Aeng-mei.' 

Han Aeng also observed how well Long Dahai and Gu Yunzhi got along. Their subtle interactions, shared laughter, and mutual understanding all pointed at them being comfortable in each other's company. 

Thankfully, their friendship didn't overshadow her presence, and they were very generous in including her in their conversations, making her feel welcomed into their circle.

Overall, today was bridging the distance between the three of them and cementing the foundation of their budding friendship.

She had truly enjoyed her time out.

Thump!

The horses neighed and stamped their hooves. The carriage creaked and groaned. Then, with an unexpected force, it leaned sharply to one side, sending the passengers sprawling to that lopsided edge.

Long Dahai reached out instinctively, one hand holding the carriage wall for stability as the jolt rocked them. The other hand was a steady anchor for Han Aeng, who looked at him with wide, alarmed eyes.

The sound of splintering wood and the jarring sensation of the broken wheel sent shivers down their spines. Dust billowed around the carriage as it came to an abrupt halt. The scent of freshly churned earth filled the air.

"What on earth!" Gu Yunzhi's voice rang with concern, and his hand shot out to steady himself.

As the carriage settled, the passengers exchanged bewildered glances. They carefully climbed out of the damaged carriage, taking in the sight of the broken carriage.

The wheel was severely cracked and splintered, rendering it unusable.

"Wow, that's some damage!" Gu Yunzhi scanned their surroundings. "Luckily, we're close to the palace."

Sensing the disturbance, the horses whinnied nervously, their breath visible in the cooling evening air.

A crisp breeze swept through Han Aeng's face, causing her to shiver involuntarily. She wrapped her arms around herself, trying to ward off the encroaching chill that crept through her robes.

Noticing her discomfort, Gu Yunzhi wanted to offer Long Dahai some dating advice, which was a habit he had developed today. Teasing Long Dahai about his stoic demeanour and the need to show a bit more charm in front of Han Aeng was much more entertaining than poking fun at his 'interesting as a wall' persona. After all, the man was simply a romantic novice.

However, before Gu Yunzhi could say anything, Long Dahai surprised him.

With a graceful and practised motion, Long Dahai removed his coat and gently draped the coat over Han Aeng's shoulders. His movements displayed a natural elegance that seemed odd with his usual reserved nature.

She looked up at him in surprise as he secured the coat around her, ensuring she was warm and snug within its embrace.

With the cold wind swirling around them, Han Aeng found herself cocooned in the fabric of the coat, enveloped by its warmth and his protective gesture. She couldn't help but burst into a smile, her cheeks tinged with a delicate pink from the cold. "Thank you, your highness."

Gu Yunzhi grinned at the sight, playfully nudging Long Dahai's ribcage with a wicked grin as he whispered, "I feel cold too, you know."

Long Dahai chuckled softly, his attention now turning to Gu Yunzhi with a mockingly amused expression. "In the future, Benwang will consider avoiding outings with you during the cooler evenings."

The driver, who had been assessing the damage, returned to the scene, bowing slightly. "Wangye, this one shall call for help. Please rest till then."

With a reassuring smile, Long Dahai gestured toward a nearby cluster of rocks that offered some shelter from the wind. "Let's find a place to wait. We should be back on our way soon."

The three of them made their way to the rocks and formed a small, impromptu circle.

It was then a middle-aged man made his way to them.

"Greetings Wangye. It's an honour to meet you here. I wonder if Wangye remembers we've met before. This one is Yun Shizhong, a provincial official from the Haili region," he eagerly greeted with a respectful bow.

The Haili region is characterized by its diverse terrain, ranging from expansive rolling plains to rugged mountains serving as a natural barrier, separating Haili from neighbouring regions and contributing to its distinct identity. It is also known for its pristine rivers and dense forests, which contribute to its natural beauty.

Despite its natural beauty and cultural richness, Haili faces economic challenges that have hindered its development. The province has struggled to establish a solid economic foundation and needs help in terms of infrastructure, trade, and governance.

Yet, the people of Haili are warm, hospitality, and bound by a strong sense of community. Villages and towns are tightly-knit, with a collective spirit that helps them endure the challenges of the region's climate and economic hardships.

Long Dahai acknowledged the official with a nod, "Official Yun."

Yun Shizhong's eyes gleamed with anticipation as he responded, "Wangye, we are eagerly waiting for you to join us."

"Eagerly waiting for what? If you don't mind me asking." A wry smile played on Gu Yunzhi's lips.

Yun Shizhong's lips curled into a polite smile, though his eyes showed an unmistakable glint of ambition. He leaned in slightly as if sharing a secret. "Wangye, this one believes that we can attract more investments and trade to Haili with your guidance. Your influence alone could significantly bolster our province's prosperity. Of course, this would be mutually beneficial. Appropriate arrangements can be made to ensure your interests are well taken care of."

The implication in his words was clear, and Gu Yunzhi exchanged a knowing look with Long Dahai. It was evident that Yun Shizhong saw Long Dahai's arrival in Haili as an opportunity to fill his pockets and advance his agenda.

"Official Yun," Long Dahai began, "Benwang appreciate your confidence in my ability to contribute to the prosperity of Haili. However, decisions concerning my assignment in Haili necessitate careful consideration and consultation."

He paused briefly, allowing his words to sink in, and continued, "Benwang's foremost concern is the welfare and development of Haili and its people. Benwang will work diligently to assess the best course of action for the province, considering its residents' needs and aspirations. Any arrangements made must prioritize the mutual benefit of all parties involved and adhere to the principles of transparency and fairness."

Yun Shizhong, though slightly taken aback by Long Dahai's measured response, quickly composed himself. "Of course, Your Highness. I understand the need for careful deliberation. I merely wished to express our eagerness to work with you for the betterment of Haili."

Long Dahai nodded in acknowledgment.

Yun Shizhong seemed momentarily lost in his thoughts, and in a lapse of judgment, he let a comment slip. "It must be hard to return to the place that holds an unfortunate event—"

Before he could utter another word, the official's expression turned ashen, and he abruptly stopped talking, his eyes darting around the two nervously as if realizing the gravity of his slip and the tension it had created.

Long Dahai's calm exterior faltered for a fleeting moment, revealing a rare crack in his composure. His jaw tightened as if suppressing a flood of memories that threatened to overwhelm him. It was as if a long-buried secret had been unearthed, and the weight of the past pressed upon his chest, leaving him with a tumultuous whirlwind of emotions. Yet, he remained silent, his lips sealed by the weight of untold history.

The official cleared his throat, "That... Um. Forgive me. I-I must get going now. Farewell."

As the official departed, an awkward silence lingered in the air. Long Dahai absentmindedly clenched and unclenched the jade pendant hanging from his waistband. Beside him, Gu Yunzhi wisely chose not to intrude.

Meanwhile, Han Aeng discreetly stole a cautious glance at her husband. The official hadn't acknowledged her presence, nor had he included her in the conversation. His words were a monologue of ambitions and schemes, veering toward a world she had little interest in. She chose to step aside, her delicate features masked by polite disinterest, like a spectator in a theatre of politics.

However, his last sentence caught her attention. It carried an undertone, a hidden meaning that prickled at her senses.

Did the official's words hold veiled meanings? Were there unspoken tensions between the prince and this man from Haili?

She couldn't help but wonder.

Longing to find a reaction, she observed her husband. Hoping for a reaction that would satisfy her curiosity and offer a glimpse into the meaning of their conversation. 

Yet, as the moments passed, Long Dahai's inscrutable expression revealed nothing, leaving her with more questions than answers.

Ultimately, his lack of reaction only hinted that the official's words held no great significance, right?