The Prince's Beloved Little Wife

The next day, as soon as it was light, the emperor rose early, attended by palace maids and eunuchs. The concubines in the harem, naturally, dared not slacken, and meticulously dressed themselves to welcome the new day. After everyone had washed and eaten breakfast, they began packing their belongings, preparing to return to the palace.

Before departing, the Emperor summoned all his ministers and earnestly instructed them, "This trip out of the palace with you all is a rare opportunity. Please stay here as long as you like, enjoy yourselves, and don't rush back to the capital. As for the morning court session, it will be suspended for now; consider it a holiday." With that, the Emperor sighed softly, thinking to himself, "As the ruler of the country, I am overwhelmed by mountains of memorials to review and process every day. Now that the Crown Prince has grown up and can manage the affairs of state independently, it seems it is time for me to abdicate and enjoy a peaceful life!" Thinking this, the Emperor felt a pang of sadness, but quickly regained his composure.

This trip away from the palace to the villa to reunite with family and enjoy delicious food was undoubtedly one of the most joyful and delightful times of the emperor's life. He savored this rare reunion, increasingly feeling that such carefree and unrestrained days were the true meaning of life. Therefore, he secretly resolved that upon returning to the palace, he would have a heart-to-heart talk with the crown prince, revealing his true thoughts and aspiring to pass the throne to him as soon as possible, so that he could be relieved of his burdens and enjoy more family happiness.

Furthermore, the emperor longed to travel with his beloved concubines to see the magnificent land he had personally governed. He imagined the majestic mountains and beautiful scenery, his heart filled with anticipation. He yearned to spend more of his remaining years with his family, enjoying peace and warmth, allowing his soul to truly relax and find fulfillment.

Upon hearing the Emperor's words, the ministers were overjoyed and immediately knelt down to kowtow and express their gratitude. Their faces beamed with joy, tears of gratitude streaming down their faces, as they shouted in unison, "Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor! Thank you for your boundless grace!" For a moment, laughter and cheers echoed throughout the courtyard.

After a flurry of activity, the emperor and his entourage finally managed to pack all their belongings. Then, the emperor personally helped the empress into the ornately decorated, spacious, and comfortable carriage, while the other concubines of the harem filed in, accompanied by their maids.

These concubines were all dressed in brocade robes, adorned with dazzling pearls and jade, and possessed beautiful and charming faces. They either chatted softly or smiled as they gazed out of the carriage windows, their graceful figures captivating all who beheld them.

Meanwhile, numerous accompanying eunuchs and palace maids hurriedly surrounded the carriage, carrying various items. Well-trained guards, fully armed and alert, stood watch on both sides of the procession, ensuring the entire journey proceeded without incident.

With a command, the massive procession slowly began to move, its wheels rolling forward and kicking up a cloud of dust. The emperor's carriage led the way, followed closely by a long procession of carriages filled with concubines and attendants, forming a flowing spectacle as it marched towards the palace.

In contrast, the ministers who remained in the villa appeared much more relaxed. They still gathered in the main hall, sitting together, sipping fragrant tea and chatting amiably. Some discussed state affairs, while others exchanged anecdotes about officialdom, creating a light and pleasant atmosphere.

Meanwhile, Chen Mengyao and Ouyang Han were still immersed in sweet dreams, like two lazy little cats. Time passed quietly, and it wasn't until the beginning of the Si hour, which was around nine o'clock in the morning, that they finally woke up.

Chen Mengyao slowly got out of bed, and after a quick wash, she called Meixiang, who was waiting nearby, to help her comb her hair. Meixiang skillfully manipulated the hair ornaments in her hands, and in no time, she had styled Chen Mengyao into an exquisite and beautiful updo that was truly eye-catching. After her hair was done, Chen Mengyao looked even more beautiful and charming, like a blooming flower, delicate and radiant.

Afterwards, Chen Mengyao, leading a group of maids, walked towards the dining hall, chatting and laughing, to prepare for breakfast. During the meal, Chen Mengyao suddenly had an idea: since she was already at this villa, why not take this opportunity to visit the farm and check on the crops' growth, so she could estimate how long it would take until harvest time? Besides, she thought she could simply have lunch there before returning to the city.

Having made up her mind, Chen Mengyao, after finishing her breakfast, didn't hesitate to send a WeChat message to everyone in the villa informing them of her decision. Upon seeing the message, the ministers all replied, expressing their desire to go and observe. After all, understanding the growth of these crops was crucial for them. As a result, the ministers, who had been leisurely drinking tea and chatting in the courtyard, instantly lost interest. They hurriedly got up, went back to their rooms to pack their belongings, and then gathered quietly in the hall to await Chen Mengyao's arrival.

As Chen Mengyao and Ouyang Han entered the spacious and bright hall side by side, numerous ministers and their families had already gathered. Some stood, some sat, whispering and discussing amongst themselves. Chen Mengyao, a gentle smile on her face, slowly took out various electrical appliances and jewelry they had carefully selected from her personal storage space. Then, she gracefully accepted the exquisite porcelain bottles from each minister. With a gentle shake, spiritual spring water flowed into the bottles like a trickle until they were full. Having done this, she handed the refilled bottles back to the ministers and gently instructed them to load all the selected items onto the carriage, preparing to enjoy lunch at the farm before heading directly back to the city.

Upon hearing this, the ministers sprang into action. Some personally took charge, while others directed their servants to carefully move the precious items one by one onto the waiting carriages. During the process, everyone was extremely cautious, fearing any mishap.

Just as everyone was busy, an even more lively atmosphere filled the hall, as the Crown Prince and his entourage had arrived. Their arrival undoubtedly added a touch of solemnity and celebration to the upcoming farm trip. Once everyone had arrived, Chen Mengyao, Ouyang Han, the Crown Prince, several princes and princesses, along with their families, naturally walked at the head of the procession. Their steps were steady and their bearing imposing, leading the entire group forward.

Behind them followed the ministers and their families, some in small groups, others in pairs, their faces beaming with anticipation and excitement for the trip to the farm. Dressed in finery, the group boarded the carriages bound for the farm in a grand procession, the carriages stretching endlessly like a flowing ribbon, shimmering in the morning light. As the carriages slowly started moving, the entire procession, filled with laughter and anticipation, set off towards the idyllic farm, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Soon after, the group arrived at the farm. They slowly drove the carriage into the farm and stopped at a suitable spot. Ouyang Han was the first to jump down from the carriage, then carefully reached out to help Chen Mengyao down. Seeing this, the others also dismounted, their movements varying in haste, but all filled with anticipation and curiosity for this land.

Upon learning of the distinguished guests' arrival, the farm manager immediately dropped everything and rushed to greet them. He stood respectfully to one side, awaiting the guests' instructions. Ouyang Han spoke first, instructing the manager to prepare a sumptuous lunch for everyone. The manager readily agreed and quickly ordered his staff to the kitchen to make the arrangements.

Immediately afterward, Chen Mengyao spoke up. Her voice was gentle yet firm as she asked the manager to take her to check on the farm's vegetable and fruit cultivation. Seeing this, the others followed her. On the way to the planting area, Chen Mengyao inquired about the growth of the vegetables and fruits, and how long it would take before they could be harvested. The manager patiently answered her questions, telling them that the vegetables would be ready for harvest in about a month, while the fruits would take longer, approximately several more months to ripen.

After listening, Chen Mengyao nodded slightly, indicating her satisfaction. She then inquired about the planting of the high-yield grain varieties. The manager told her that even the high-yield varieties would take about a month to harvest. Chen Mengyao nodded again, seemingly gaining a deeper understanding of the farm's planting practices.

When the group finally arrived at the area where vegetables, fruits, and high-yield grains were grown, they were all awestruck by the sight before them. The crops were growing vigorously, lush and green, a vibrant scene of life. Everyone was filled with joy and satisfaction, as if they could see the hope of a bountiful harvest right before their eyes.

After carefully observing the vibrant crops, Chen Mengyao generously allowed everyone to wander freely within the farm, enjoying this rare tranquility and beauty until lunchtime, when servants would lead them to the dining hall for a delicious meal. For the young ladies who were visiting the farm for the first time, the novelty and joy were indescribable. They almost couldn't wait to rush to Chen Mengyao, grab her hand, and run around laughing, as if they wanted to embrace all the joy of the farm.

Seeing this, Ouyang Han couldn't help but feel a little worried, fearing that they might accidentally fall in their excitement. So he followed closely behind them, ready to lend a helping hand at any moment. At the same time, the Crown Prince and his entourage, along with various ministers, strolled leisurely in small groups around the farm, admiring the crops and chatting quietly, sharing their views and insights.

The women, however, presented a different scene. They gathered in pairs or groups of three, chatting and laughing, enjoying this rare time together. The ladies familiar with the princesses and other members of the royal family warmly took their hands, leading them to admire the scenery surrounding the farm. They strolled through the lush green fields, breathing in the fresh, earthy air, discussing everyday matters, current events, and various interesting anecdotes. The entire farm was filled with laughter and joy, as if happiness and happiness permeated the very air.

Chen Mengyao, hand in hand with several of her closest friends, arrived at a lush, green meadow. She gently took out a soft, comfortable mat from her personal storage space and carefully spread it on the grass. Next, she took out several exquisite sets of board games, patiently explaining each one and meticulously teaching them how to play. Actually, she had originally planned to teach them these games yesterday, but unfortunately, she was too busy and engrossed in discussing her ambitious plans with her father and the others, and had completely forgotten about it. Therefore, she decided to take advantage of the early hour and ample time to quickly teach them.

After Chen Mengyao's patient and repeated instruction, everyone gradually mastered the rules of various card and board games. They then chose their favorite games and began playing with great enthusiasm. Soon, the entire lawn was filled with laughter and joy; everyone was immersed in the fun of the games, thoroughly enjoying themselves, their faces beaming with satisfaction and happiness.

Not far away, Ouyang Han stood quietly, her gaze gently falling on Chen Mengyao, who was laughing and playing with her sisters. Looking at her radiant smile, lively figure, and clear, melodious laughter, Ouyang Han felt an indescribable joy welling up in her heart.

At this moment, Chen Mengyao seemed to have forgotten all the troubles and worries of the world, completely immersed in this joyful atmosphere. Ouyang Han silently protected this beautiful moment, secretly resolving to work even harder from now on to ensure that this lovely woman could forever maintain this pure and happy state, living a carefree and unrestrained life. No matter how rugged and bumpy the road ahead, he would unhesitatingly step forward to shelter her from the wind and rain, creating a world full of warmth and happiness for her.