Yalun Mansion in the capital.
King Zhong, Huangfu Yao, held a watering can, carefully tending to the flowers in the pots.
An attendant hurried over, moving swiftly but silently, not making any noise.
“Reporting to Your Highness, Huang Guiqing requests an audience.”
“Huang Guiqing?” The name was like thunder in Huangfu Yao’s ears, he never expected to meet him one day. He showed his surprise for a while before composing himself, “Please let him in.”
“Yes.”
King Zhong then said to another attendant, “Hurry and invite the Princess.”
“Yes.”
Yan Ge nodded repeatedly upon entering the courtyard. The courtyard was not small, but flowers occupied most of the space. It was early March, and many flowers were blooming in a riot of colors, making it a delightful sight. If there were some mist, it would be like a fairyland on earth.
Continuing along the path intentionally left between the numerous flower pots, he saw a man and a woman standing there with several attendants. The man was about fifty years old, with a pale complexion and a thin figure, but he seemed spirited. He was undoubtedly King Zhong, Huangfu Yao. The elegant and graceful woman dressed in the attire of the princess was probably his wife.
Huangfu Yao also sized up Yan Ge, and couldn’t help but admire his appearance and demeanor.
He was graceful, good looking, had a good temperament and a kind heart. No wonder the Emperor doted on him so much. Huang Guiqing’s aura was also formidable, and ordinary people couldn’t suppress him, making him a perfect match for the Emperor. He only brought two guards and two palace maids on this visit, showing sincerity regardless of his status and purpose.
Yan Ge clasped his hands together and greeted them, “King Zhong, Princess Zhong, Huang Guiqing has been impolite.”
“Greetings, Huang Guiqing,” they replied.
As the ranks of Huang Guiqing and King Zhong were equivalent, only standard courtesies were observed.
Yan Ge respectfully waved away their greetings and smiled, saying, “My sudden visit is already an impropriety, yet King Zhong and Princess Zhong personally came to receive me. I am truly humbled.”
“Huang Guiqing overstates. Huang Guiqing’s distinguished presence warrants a grander reception. Please do not take offense, Huang Guiqing and come inside.”
“Please, King Zhong, Princess Zhong.”
Once seated in the hall and the maids had served the tea and left, Yan Ge spoke, “I’ve heard that King Zhong has a fondness for flowers. I’ve brought a potted camellia specifically for you to appreciate, Prince.”
He signaled to Du Juan.
Di Juan unveiled what Gao Feng held.
King Zhong saw the flower in the pot and stood up in astonishment, “This is the ‘Eighteen Scholars’!”
“I am not knowledgeable about flowers, but I’ve heard people say that the ‘Eighteen Scholars’ is a precious type of camellia. This flower’s worth will be truly recognized in King Zhong’s possession. I hope King Zhong will accept it.” These Eighteen Scholars were bought from the system store and wefe really exquisite, with each bloom full of vitality.
“Thus…” King Zhong was enamored by the camellia, “Since that’s the case, I must thank Your Royal Highness.”
On returning to his seat, he said, “Huang Guiqing’s visit must have more purpose than merely delivering flowers.”
Yan Ge nodded, “There’s a reason for everything, and indeed, I have a request.”
King Zhong gestured, “Hehe, I didn’t expect that I could be of assistance to Huang Guiqing as well. Please, Your Highness, speak.”
Yan Ge got straight to the point, “I wish to ask King Zhong to resume attending court sessions.”
“Oh?” King Zhong appeared both surprised and curious, “But I don’t understand why.”
Yan Ge explained, “King Zhong must be aware of the deep bond between the Emperor and Prince Dai. However, since Prince Dai’s passing, I can’t bear to see the Emperor facing the court alone each day. That’s why I’ve ventured to make this request.” Mentioning Huangfu Yuhu still stirred intense feelings within him, but outsiders were unaware and he had to conceal his emotions.
King Zhong was moved, and he nodded silently. It was evident that Huang Guiqing sincerely cared for the Emperor, “Huang Guiqing’s concern for the Emperor is truly heartening. However…”
Yan Ge inquired, “Is King Zhong concerned about his health?”
King Zhong nodded, “Huang Guiqing must also be aware that my health has never been good. It’s precisely because of this that I got the Emperor’s favor to avoid early court sessions. I’ve lived the best of my life, and it’s not that I fear death.”
Yan Ge chuckled, “King Zhong may not be aware that I also possess medical skills.”
King Zhong laughed, “Indeed, I’m aware of that. His Majesty is sympathetic and has long proposed that Huang Guiqing treat me, but I declined.”
Yan Ge was puzzled, “Why is that?” It was probably because King Zhong declined that Yuchen didn’t mention him.
King Zhong replied casually, “It’s not just His Majesty; even the late Emperor had invited various physicians to treat me. They all said that this ailment is extremely hard to cure. Therefore, I surmise that even if Huang Guiqing could cure me, the medicine required would be extremely precious. Hence, it’s better to reserve such medicine for those who need it more.”
“King Zhong’s principles are admirable, and I’m truly impressed.” Yan Ge smiled faintly, stood up, and walked to him, extending his hand. “Why not let me give it a try?”
“This…” King Zhong saw Yan Ge’s confident expression, as if he had a plan in mind, and a glimmer of hope ignited in his heart.
Princess Zhong nudged him discreetly, “My lord, if His Highness is willing, there’s no harm in letting him try.”
“Very well, then. Huang Guiqing, please.” King Zhong extended his hand.
Yan Ge placed a few fingers on his wrist, squinting slightly as he carefully felt his pulse. His expression relaxed a bit, “It’s better than I imagined.”
King Zhong sat up excitedly, “Huang Guiqing, can you treat it? Oh, please, have a seat.”
Princess Zhong clutched her handkerchief in excitement, looking intently at Yan Ge.
After sitting down, Yan Ge said, “I can treat it. May I ask, have the previous physicians instructed you to rest more and exercise less?”
“Indeed,” King Zhong nodded, “Is there something amiss?”
Yan Ge explained, “It’s not entirely amiss. It’s true that those with heart palpitations should avoid vigorous exercise such as running, horseback riding, and climbing. However, basic physical activities are still necessary, like taking walks and normal walking, as long as you rest when tired. Over these years, King Zhong has been in a state of repose, lacking exercise, and his constitution has weakened slightly. But it won’t hinder the treatment.”
“Oh, Your Highness!” Princess Zhong heard Yan Ge’s confident tone and couldn’t help approaching him and clasping his hand, saying, “We…we will trouble you. You don’t know that my lord has suffered much due to this ailment over the years.”
“Princess.” King Zhong gave her a reproachful look, implying she was being impolite.
Yan Ge held Princess Zhong’s hand and smiled, “It’s no trouble. Princess Zhong has a warm personality, which makes me feel close. Moreover, Princess Zhong is a compassionate elder, willing to be close to me; it’s an honor for me.”
Both King Zhong and his wife felt relieved on hearing these words.
Yan Ge continued, “Heart palpitations often have a familial tendency, making it easy to affect descendants. May I inquire if the prince and princess have this ailment? If they do, I can treat them together.”
Princess Zhong couldn’t help but wipe her tears, nodding repeatedly, “Not hiding anything from Huang Guiqing, the crown prince also has heart palpitations, though not as pronounced as my lord’s. My lord and I often worry that it might worsen in the future.”
King Zhong sighed and bowed deeply to Yan Ge, “Thank you so much, Huang Guiqing!”
Yan Ge evaded, “King Zhong’s gratitude is excessive. I haven’t brought my usual medical equipment today. I’ll come again tomorrow.”
Both King Zhong and his wife were eager to share the good news with their son, so after exchanging a few more words, they saw Yan Ge off.
“By the way, regarding this matter, I want to surprise the Emperor. I hope King Zhong and Princess Zhong won’t reveal it beforehand.”
King Zhong and his wife exchanged smiles.
“Rest assured, Your Highness.”
Yan Ge felt a bit embarrassed. He nodded to them, then boarded the carriage back to the palace.
Huangfu Yuchen returned to the Tenglong Palace after the morning court session. Hearing that Yan Ge was in the laboratory, he went to the lab and knocked on the door, “Baby?”
“Wait a moment,” Yan Ge’s voice sounded muffled through the door.
Huangfu Yuchen raised an eyebrow; this was the first time such a situation had arisen. He couldn’t help but be curious about what his beloved was doing. But he didn’t rush; he patiently waited.
After about half a cup of tea’s time.
“Baby?”
“Wait a bit longer.”
After one cup of tea.
“Baby?”
“Are you still there?”
Huangfu Yuchen’s forehead twitched, “…”
Deng Mande stifled a laugh.
After about one incense stick’s time.
“Baby?”
“I thought you had left. Wait a bit longer.”
Huangfu Yuchen could tell that Yan Ge was simply playing with him, deliberately keeping him in the dark. He could only say, “Alright, I’ll go have a meal first. We’re having hot pot for lunch today.”
There was no response from inside, and he could only shake his head and leave.
Early the next morning, after Yan Ge had finished breakfast, he brought Du Juan and another palace maid named Hai Tang, Gao Feng, Gao Yun, Jun Xiang, and Lu Fei, to King Zhong’s place.
King Zhong, Princess Zhong, and the crown prince Huangfu Yuhong were waiting at the entrance.
Yan Ge exclaimed in surprise, “What have I done to deserve the honor of making King Zhong and Princess Zhong wait so long?”
“This humble official greets Huang Guiqing,” Crown Prince Yuhong bowed respectfully.
“No need for formalities, Crown Prince,” Yan Ge replied.
“Huang Guiqing, please come in.”
“Please.”
Because Yan Ge often roamed outside the palace, Crown Prince Yuhong had seen him before, but this close contact made him realize that this Huang Guiqing possessed extraordinary bearing. However, he was an outsider, so he refrained from staring and quickly averted his gaze.
Yan Ge sensed the fleeting glance that landed on him and he had a good impression of this crown prince who adhered to decorum.
Inside the hall, he got straight to the point. After examining King Zhong’s pulse, he said, “The Crown Prince’s condition is not necessarily the same as King Zhong’s. I need to diagnose it by checking his pulse.”
Crown Prince Yuhong respectfully bowed, “I’m indebted to Huang Guiqing, and I’m truly grateful.”
Yan Ge then examined his pulse, nodded, and smiled at King Zhong. “The Crown Prince’s condition isn’t severe. King Zhong and Princess Zhong can rest assured.”
Princess Zhong patted her chest, sighing in relief, “That’s good, that’s good.”
Yan Ge took out two jade vials from his medical kit, “The root cause of heart palpitations lies in the weakness of the meridians connecting to the heart. These pills can help both King Zhong and the Crown Prince expand and strengthen these meridians. King Zhong, one pill, and the Crown Prince, half a pill. After about one incense stick’s time, I will perform acupuncture to assist. This treatment every three days will lead to complete recovery within a month. You’ll be just like any ordinary person.”
King Zhong, Princess Zhong, and the crown prince were all overjoyed when they heard these words.
Especially the crown prince; he had always admired those who went horseback hunting, envying their experiences. But he’d never had the chance to participate because both King Zhong and Princess Zhong were concerned about his health. Now, thanks to Huang Guiqing, he felt a sense of rejuvenation.
“But…” King Zhong hesitated, “this acupuncture…” He was hesitant. After all, Huang Guiqing was a person of the emperor, and he and the crown prince were outsiders. It wasn’t appropriate to reveal their bodies before Huang Guiqing.
Yan Ge quickly understood his concerns and smiled faintly. “Prince, you’re worrying too much. I can perform acupuncture over clothing.”
King Zhong didn’t doubt it at all. Given the dangers of heart palpitations, even a slight mishap could prove fatal, but he believed Huang Guiqing must possess the necessary skills; otherwise, he wouldn’t take such risks.
“I see, I was overthinking. Haha…”
Yan Ge clarified everything that needed to be said, “Since these pills are for expanding and strengthening the meridians, there might be a slight sensation of pain. However, it will be within a tolerable range. King Zhong, Princess Zhong, and the crown prince needn’t worry.”
King Zhong nodded and promptly took a pill, while the crown prince took half a pill.
As the pills reached their abdomens, they did feel the pain. Both King Zhong and the crown prince trembled slightly. Their faces turned pale, and tiny beads of sweat formed on their foreheads.
Seeing this, Princess Zhong felt worried, but since Huang Guiqing had already forewarned them about this reaction, she refrained from asking. She didn’t want to seem like she doubted Huang Guiqing’s words. If he had the ability to cure her husband and son’s illnesses, it was a great favor, and she didn’t want to offend him.
“I’m fine,” King Zhong chuckled.
The crown prince added, “I’m fine too.”
Yan Ge still checked their pulses in confirmation, “Their pulses are normal.”
Princess Zhong finally let out a sigh of relief.
After one incense stick’s time, Yan Ge opened a silver needle case and deftly inserted the silver needles into King Zhong and Crown Prince Yu Hong’s bodies.
King Zhong observed Yan Ge’s skilled movements, noticing how his hands worked independently without interfering with each other. This increased his confidence and admiration for him. It was indeed a great fortune that such a talented person was born in Great Han.
Crown Prince Yuhong had milder symptoms. As the number of needles increased on his body, he quickly felt the pain lessening. Additionally, a vague warm current flowed gently through his body, making him feel warm all over. He couldn’t help but exclaim in amazement as he looked at Yan Ge.
“How is it, Yuhong?” Princess Zhong inquired anxiously.
Crown Prince Yuhong reassured her with a glance, “I’m perfectly fine, Mother. His Highness’s medical skills are truly remarkable. I feel very comfortable now.”
Little did he know that Yan Ge’s pills weren’t ordinary pills; they were specially concocted with two spirit materials. Moreover, Yan Ge had infused a bit of true qi into King Zhong and Crown Prince Yuhong’s bodies along the path of the silver needles. This helped them expand their meridians without causing pain. However, this cost a great deal of resources. Once King Zhong recovered, he would live a long life—living up to one hundred and twenty or thirty years wouldn’t be an issue. Being young, Crown Prince Yu Hong would benefit even more. He would be free from major illnesses in the future and enjoy longevity as well.
After a short while, King Zhong also nodded in agreement, “I feel great as well.”
At this point, Yan Ge had finished inserting all the needles. “Both of you can sit down now. Just don’t move around recklessly.”
Yalun Mansion in the capital.
King Zhong, Huangfu Yao, held a watering can, carefully tending to the flowers in the pots.
An attendant hurried over, moving swiftly but silently, not making any noise.
“Reporting to Your Highness, Huang Guiqing requests an audience.”
“Huang Guiqing?” The name was like thunder in Huangfu Yao’s ears, he never expected to meet him one day. He showed his surprise for a while before composing himself, “Please let him in.”
“Yes.”
King Zhong then said to another attendant, “Hurry and invite the Princess.”
“Yes.”
Yan Ge nodded repeatedly upon entering the courtyard. The courtyard was not small, but flowers occupied most of the space. It was early March, and many flowers were blooming in a riot of colors, making it a delightful sight. If there were some mist, it would be like a fairyland on earth.
Continuing along the path intentionally left between the numerous flower pots, he saw a man and a woman standing there with several attendants. The man was about fifty years old, with a pale complexion and a thin figure, but he seemed spirited. He was undoubtedly King Zhong, Huangfu Yao. The elegant and graceful woman dressed in the attire of the princess was probably his wife.
Huangfu Yao also sized up Yan Ge, and couldn’t help but admire his appearance and demeanor.
He was graceful, good looking, had a good temperament and a kind heart. No wonder the Emperor doted on him so much. Huang Guiqing’s aura was also formidable, and ordinary people couldn’t suppress him, making him a perfect match for the Emperor. He only brought two guards and two palace maids on this visit, showing sincerity regardless of his status and purpose.
Yan Ge clasped his hands together and greeted them, “King Zhong, Princess Zhong, Huang Guiqing has been impolite.”
“Greetings, Huang Guiqing,” they replied.
As the ranks of Huang Guiqing and King Zhong were equivalent, only standard courtesies were observed.
Yan Ge respectfully waved away their greetings and smiled, saying, “My sudden visit is already an impropriety, yet King Zhong and Princess Zhong personally came to receive me. I am truly humbled.”
“Huang Guiqing overstates. Huang Guiqing’s distinguished presence warrants a grander reception. Please do not take offense, Huang Guiqing and come inside.”
“Please, King Zhong, Princess Zhong.”
Once seated in the hall and the maids had served the tea and left, Yan Ge spoke, “I’ve heard that King Zhong has a fondness for flowers. I’ve brought a potted camellia specifically for you to appreciate, Prince.”
He signaled to Du Juan.
Di Juan unveiled what Gao Feng held.
King Zhong saw the flower in the pot and stood up in astonishment, “This is the ‘Eighteen Scholars’!”
“I am not knowledgeable about flowers, but I’ve heard people say that the ‘Eighteen Scholars’ is a precious type of camellia. This flower’s worth will be truly recognized in King Zhong’s possession. I hope King Zhong will accept it.” These Eighteen Scholars were bought from the system store and wefe really exquisite, with each bloom full of vitality.
“Thus…” King Zhong was enamored by the camellia, “Since that’s the case, I must thank Your Royal Highness.”
On returning to his seat, he said, “Huang Guiqing’s visit must have more purpose than merely delivering flowers.”
Yan Ge nodded, “There’s a reason for everything, and indeed, I have a request.”
King Zhong gestured, “Hehe, I didn’t expect that I could be of assistance to Huang Guiqing as well. Please, Your Highness, speak.”
Yan Ge got straight to the point, “I wish to ask King Zhong to resume attending court sessions.”
“Oh?” King Zhong appeared both surprised and curious, “But I don’t understand why.”
Yan Ge explained, “King Zhong must be aware of the deep bond between the Emperor and Prince Dai. However, since Prince Dai’s passing, I can’t bear to see the Emperor facing the court alone each day. That’s why I’ve ventured to make this request.” Mentioning Huangfu Yuhu still stirred intense feelings within him, but outsiders were unaware and he had to conceal his emotions.
King Zhong was moved, and he nodded silently. It was evident that Huang Guiqing sincerely cared for the Emperor, “Huang Guiqing’s concern for the Emperor is truly heartening. However…”
Yan Ge inquired, “Is King Zhong concerned about his health?”
King Zhong nodded, “Huang Guiqing must also be aware that my health has never been good. It’s precisely because of this that I got the Emperor’s favor to avoid early court sessions. I’ve lived the best of my life, and it’s not that I fear death.”
Yan Ge chuckled, “King Zhong may not be aware that I also possess medical skills.”
King Zhong laughed, “Indeed, I’m aware of that. His Majesty is sympathetic and has long proposed that Huang Guiqing treat me, but I declined.”
Yan Ge was puzzled, “Why is that?” It was probably because King Zhong declined that Yuchen didn’t mention him.
King Zhong replied casually, “It’s not just His Majesty; even the late Emperor had invited various physicians to treat me. They all said that this ailment is extremely hard to cure. Therefore, I surmise that even if Huang Guiqing could cure me, the medicine required would be extremely precious. Hence, it’s better to reserve such medicine for those who need it more.”
“King Zhong’s principles are admirable, and I’m truly impressed.” Yan Ge smiled faintly, stood up, and walked to him, extending his hand. “Why not let me give it a try?”
“This…” King Zhong saw Yan Ge’s confident expression, as if he had a plan in mind, and a glimmer of hope ignited in his heart.
Princess Zhong nudged him discreetly, “My lord, if His Highness is willing, there’s no harm in letting him try.”
“Very well, then. Huang Guiqing, please.” King Zhong extended his hand.
Yan Ge placed a few fingers on his wrist, squinting slightly as he carefully felt his pulse. His expression relaxed a bit, “It’s better than I imagined.”
King Zhong sat up excitedly, “Huang Guiqing, can you treat it? Oh, please, have a seat.”
Princess Zhong clutched her handkerchief in excitement, looking intently at Yan Ge.
After sitting down, Yan Ge said, “I can treat it. May I ask, have the previous physicians instructed you to rest more and exercise less?”
“Indeed,” King Zhong nodded, “Is there something amiss?”
Yan Ge explained, “It’s not entirely amiss. It’s true that those with heart palpitations should avoid vigorous exercise such as running, horseback riding, and climbing. However, basic physical activities are still necessary, like taking walks and normal walking, as long as you rest when tired. Over these years, King Zhong has been in a state of repose, lacking exercise, and his constitution has weakened slightly. But it won’t hinder the treatment.”
“Oh, Your Highness!” Princess Zhong heard Yan Ge’s confident tone and couldn’t help approaching him and clasping his hand, saying, “We…we will trouble you. You don’t know that my lord has suffered much due to this ailment over the years.”
“Princess.” King Zhong gave her a reproachful look, implying she was being impolite.
Yan Ge held Princess Zhong’s hand and smiled, “It’s no trouble. Princess Zhong has a warm personality, which makes me feel close. Moreover, Princess Zhong is a compassionate elder, willing to be close to me; it’s an honor for me.”
Both King Zhong and his wife felt relieved on hearing these words.
Yan Ge continued, “Heart palpitations often have a familial tendency, making it easy to affect descendants. May I inquire if the prince and princess have this ailment? If they do, I can treat them together.”
Princess Zhong couldn’t help but wipe her tears, nodding repeatedly, “Not hiding anything from Huang Guiqing, the crown prince also has heart palpitations, though not as pronounced as my lord’s. My lord and I often worry that it might worsen in the future.”
King Zhong sighed and bowed deeply to Yan Ge, “Thank you so much, Huang Guiqing!”
Yan Ge evaded, “King Zhong’s gratitude is excessive. I haven’t brought my usual medical equipment today. I’ll come again tomorrow.”
Both King Zhong and his wife were eager to share the good news with their son, so after exchanging a few more words, they saw Yan Ge off.
“By the way, regarding this matter, I want to surprise the Emperor. I hope King Zhong and Princess Zhong won’t reveal it beforehand.”
King Zhong and his wife exchanged smiles.
“Rest assured, Your Highness.”
Yan Ge felt a bit embarrassed. He nodded to them, then boarded the carriage back to the palace.
Huangfu Yuchen returned to the Tenglong Palace after the morning court session. Hearing that Yan Ge was in the laboratory, he went to the lab and knocked on the door, “Baby?”
“Wait a moment,” Yan Ge’s voice sounded muffled through the door.
Huangfu Yuchen raised an eyebrow; this was the first time such a situation had arisen. He couldn’t help but be curious about what his beloved was doing. But he didn’t rush; he patiently waited.
After about half a cup of tea’s time.
“Baby?”
“Wait a bit longer.”
After one cup of tea.
“Baby?”
“Are you still there?”
Huangfu Yuchen’s forehead twitched, “…”
Deng Mande stifled a laugh.
After about one incense stick’s time.
“Baby?”
“I thought you had left. Wait a bit longer.”
Huangfu Yuchen could tell that Yan Ge was simply playing with him, deliberately keeping him in the dark. He could only say, “Alright, I’ll go have a meal first. We’re having hot pot for lunch today.”
There was no response from inside, and he could only shake his head and leave.
Early the next morning, after Yan Ge had finished breakfast, he brought Du Juan and another palace maid named Hai Tang, Gao Feng, Gao Yun, Jun Xiang, and Lu Fei, to King Zhong’s place.
King Zhong, Princess Zhong, and the crown prince Huangfu Yuhong were waiting at the entrance.
Yan Ge exclaimed in surprise, “What have I done to deserve the honor of making King Zhong and Princess Zhong wait so long?”
“This humble official greets Huang Guiqing,” Crown Prince Yuhong bowed respectfully.
“No need for formalities, Crown Prince,” Yan Ge replied.
“Huang Guiqing, please come in.”
“Please.”
Because Yan Ge often roamed outside the palace, Crown Prince Yuhong had seen him before, but this close contact made him realize that this Huang Guiqing possessed extraordinary bearing. However, he was an outsider, so he refrained from staring and quickly averted his gaze.
Yan Ge sensed the fleeting glance that landed on him and he had a good impression of this crown prince who adhered to decorum.
Inside the hall, he got straight to the point. After examining King Zhong’s pulse, he said, “The Crown Prince’s condition is not necessarily the same as King Zhong’s. I need to diagnose it by checking his pulse.”
Crown Prince Yuhong respectfully bowed, “I’m indebted to Huang Guiqing, and I’m truly grateful.”
Yan Ge then examined his pulse, nodded, and smiled at King Zhong. “The Crown Prince’s condition isn’t severe. King Zhong and Princess Zhong can rest assured.”
Princess Zhong patted her chest, sighing in relief, “That’s good, that’s good.”
Yan Ge took out two jade vials from his medical kit, “The root cause of heart palpitations lies in the weakness of the meridians connecting to the heart. These pills can help both King Zhong and the Crown Prince expand and strengthen these meridians. King Zhong, one pill, and the Crown Prince, half a pill. After about one incense stick’s time, I will perform acupuncture to assist. This treatment every three days will lead to complete recovery within a month. You’ll be just like any ordinary person.”
King Zhong, Princess Zhong, and the crown prince were all overjoyed when they heard these words.
Especially the crown prince; he had always admired those who went horseback hunting, envying their experiences. But he’d never had the chance to participate because both King Zhong and Princess Zhong were concerned about his health. Now, thanks to Huang Guiqing, he felt a sense of rejuvenation.
“But…” King Zhong hesitated, “this acupuncture…” He was hesitant. After all, Huang Guiqing was a person of the emperor, and he and the crown prince were outsiders. It wasn’t appropriate to reveal their bodies before Huang Guiqing.
Yan Ge quickly understood his concerns and smiled faintly. “Prince, you’re worrying too much. I can perform acupuncture over clothing.”
King Zhong didn’t doubt it at all. Given the dangers of heart palpitations, even a slight mishap could prove fatal, but he believed Huang Guiqing must possess the necessary skills; otherwise, he wouldn’t take such risks.
“I see, I was overthinking. Haha…”
Yan Ge clarified everything that needed to be said, “Since these pills are for expanding and strengthening the meridians, there might be a slight sensation of pain. However, it will be within a tolerable range. King Zhong, Princess Zhong, and the crown prince needn’t worry.”
King Zhong nodded and promptly took a pill, while the crown prince took half a pill.
As the pills reached their abdomens, they did feel the pain. Both King Zhong and the crown prince trembled slightly. Their faces turned pale, and tiny beads of sweat formed on their foreheads.
Seeing this, Princess Zhong felt worried, but since Huang Guiqing had already forewarned them about this reaction, she refrained from asking. She didn’t want to seem like she doubted Huang Guiqing’s words. If he had the ability to cure her husband and son’s illnesses, it was a great favor, and she didn’t want to offend him.
“I’m fine,” King Zhong chuckled.
The crown prince added, “I’m fine too.”
Yan Ge still checked their pulses in confirmation, “Their pulses are normal.”
Princess Zhong finally let out a sigh of relief.
After one incense stick’s time, Yan Ge opened a silver needle case and deftly inserted the silver needles into King Zhong and Crown Prince Yu Hong’s bodies.
King Zhong observed Yan Ge’s skilled movements, noticing how his hands worked independently without interfering with each other. This increased his confidence and admiration for him. It was indeed a great fortune that such a talented person was born in Great Han.
Crown Prince Yuhong had milder symptoms. As the number of needles increased on his body, he quickly felt the pain lessening. Additionally, a vague warm current flowed gently through his body, making him feel warm all over. He couldn’t help but exclaim in amazement as he looked at Yan Ge.
“How is it, Yuhong?” Princess Zhong inquired anxiously.
Crown Prince Yuhong reassured her with a glance, “I’m perfectly fine, Mother. His Highness’s medical skills are truly remarkable. I feel very comfortable now.”
Little did he know that Yan Ge’s pills weren’t ordinary pills; they were specially concocted with two spirit materials. Moreover, Yan Ge had infused a bit of true qi into King Zhong and Crown Prince Yuhong’s bodies along the path of the silver needles. This helped them expand their meridians without causing pain. However, this cost a great deal of resources. Once King Zhong recovered, he would live a long life—living up to one hundred and twenty or thirty years wouldn’t be an issue. Being young, Crown Prince Yu Hong would benefit even more. He would be free from major illnesses in the future and enjoy longevity as well.
After a short while, King Zhong also nodded in agreement, “I feel great as well.”
At this point, Yan Ge had finished inserting all the needles. “Both of you can sit down now. Just don’t move around recklessly.”
