Phoenix Dance: The Eldest Daughter's Physician Consort Shocks the World

As the turmoil in the imperial court subsided, Xiao Yichen's prestige soared. However, after countless open and covert struggles, Xiao Yichen gradually grew weary of this kind of official life.

One day, Xiao Yichen and Su Yao were enjoying the cool air in the courtyard. Xiao Yichen gazed at the night sky and said softly, "Yao'er, these past years we have struggled in the vortex of the court. Although we have rid the court of many treacherous officials, we are exhausted both physically and mentally. Now, I want to resign from my post and retire to live a carefree life with you and the child. What do you think?"

Su Yao was slightly taken aback, then a hint of joy flashed in her eyes: "Yichen, I actually had the same thought for a while. I was just worried that you couldn't let go of the affairs of the court. If you could stay away from this place of trouble and be with your family, that would be the best thing."

Xiao Yichen held Su Yao's hand tightly: "With your words, I am at ease. However, I still need to find a suitable time to inform the Emperor about my resignation."

A few days later, Xiao Yichen entered the palace to meet the emperor and expressed his feelings: "Your Majesty, since I joined the court, I have been fortunate to have the favor of Your Majesty and to realize my ambitions. But now I feel physically and mentally exhausted, and my wife and children at home also need my company. I humbly request Your Majesty to grant me permission to resign and retire."

Upon hearing this, the Emperor looked somewhat surprised: "Minister Xiao, you are in the prime of your life and have outstanding talents. The court is in dire need of capable people right now. If you were to leave, I would truly be reluctant to let you go."

Xiao Yichen knelt and kowtowed: "Your Majesty, I have made up my mind. Over the years I have devoted myself to the court, and now I only wish to return to the countryside and enjoy the happiness of family life. I hope Your Majesty will grant my request."

Seeing that Xiao Yichen's mind was made up, the Emperor pondered for a long time and then said, "So be it. Since you are determined to leave, I will not force you to stay. However, you have made great contributions to the court, and I will reward you handsomely and ensure that you will have enough to eat and wear for the rest of your life."

After expressing his gratitude, Xiao Yichen left the palace. Upon returning home, he told Su Yao the news, and the whole family was immersed in the joy of their impending retirement.

In preparation for their retirement, Xiao Yichen and Su Yao began packing their belongings and arranging affairs in the manor. They distributed some unnecessary valuables to the servants, keeping only some simple daily necessities.

However, their decision to retire into seclusion attracted the attention of some. Those forces that had been suppressed by Xiao Yichen, though not daring to openly obstruct him, were secretly plotting how to create some more trouble for him before he left.

One day, Xiao Yichen received news that someone was secretly spreading rumors that he had resigned from his post because he was corrupt and accepted bribes and was afraid of being investigated by the emperor, so he wanted to leave.

Upon hearing this, Xiao Yichen simply smiled faintly: "These people are truly insidious; even at this point, they still want to smear me. However, I have nothing to fear, so let them be."

Su Yao was somewhat worried: "Yichen, if these rumors reach the Emperor's ears, will it affect our plans to retire?"

Xiao Yichen comforted her, "Yao'er, don't worry. His Majesty is a wise ruler and won't easily believe these rumors. Besides, we'll be leaving the capital soon, so these rumors won't cause any trouble."

Nevertheless, Xiao Yichen decided to go to the palace to explain things to the Emperor, so as not to arouse any suspicion.

After hearing Xiao Yichen's explanation, the Emperor smiled and said, "Minister Xiao, how could I believe such nonsense? I have seen everything you have done for the court. Go in peace, I will uphold justice for you."

After receiving the Emperor's assurance, Xiao Yichen and Su Yao were finally able to leave with peace of mind.

On a bright and sunny morning, Xiao Yichen, along with Su Yao and their child, slowly left the capital in a simple carriage. They carried little luggage, only their hopes for the future and their deep love for each other.

Along the way, they admired the beautiful scenery and felt the tranquility and beauty of nature. The children laughed and chatted in the carriage, Su Yao's face was filled with a happy smile, and Xiao Yichen's heart was also filled with contentment and peace.

Finally, they arrived at a quiet little village. The village was beautiful with clear waters and lush mountains, and the people were kind and honest. Xiao Yichen and Su Yao decided to settle down here.

They used the money bestowed upon them by the emperor to buy a small courtyard and lived a life of farming and weaving. Xiao Yichen worked in the fields every day, while Su Yao took care of the household chores and children at home. In their spare time, they would take walks together by the river, reminiscing about the past.

"Yichen, look how wonderful our life is now. There are no more court intrigues, no more conspiracies and schemes. We are just a family together, living a simple and peaceful life, yet we are incredibly happy," Su Yao said softly, leaning on Xiao Yichen's shoulder.

Xiao Yichen smiled as he looked at Su Yao: "Yes, Yao'er. This is the life I've always longed for. Those days before were like a dream. Now, the dream is over, and we've finally found our own happiness."

From then on, Xiao Yichen and Su Yao lived a happy and fulfilling life in this small village. Their story spread throughout the area and became a beautiful legend, witnessing the power of love and courage, and enduring through the long years.