The fierce grandson of the Ming Dynasty

Chapter 144 A Loving Family

The uncle and nephew talked for a long time.

As Zhu Xiong Ying turned to the side, she suddenly noticed that her great-uncle Lan Yu had a cloth bandage wrapped around the back of his hand, indicating that he was injured.

Seeing this, he frowned and asked with concern, "Uncle, what's wrong with the injury on the back of your hand—"

Lan Yu didn't care at all, grinning and saying, "Grandson Emperor, don't worry, this little injury is nothing!"

"It happened a few days ago when I personally led a patrol along the border. We encountered remnants of the Yuan cavalry and were ambushed by one of their thieves!"

"However, that wolf cub has already been killed by us, so we've avenged it!"

When talking about his previous experience, Lan Yu was quite proud.

Upon hearing this, Zhu Di recounted the details in detail.

It turned out that his great-uncle had led a dozen men to annihilate more than a hundred enemy cavalry!

This fighting strength alone is truly admirable!

Zhu Xiong Ying's worries remained unabated, and she hurriedly said, "Uncle, you should know that in military campaigns, the most serious danger is infection of wounds!"

"We brought a lot of wound medicine and strong disinfectant with us on this trip north. We'll have the doctor treat you properly later!"

Seeing the unquestionable attitude of the eldest grandson of the emperor.

Lan Yu felt a warmth in his heart, moved his lips, clasped his hands in thanks, and said, "Yes, this humble general thanks the Crown Prince!"

Upon seeing this, Zhu Di nodded.

His nephew is such a kind person!

He is kind, righteous, and has many types of elder brothers!

After finishing this conversation, Zhu Xiong Ying faced his uncle Li Wenzhong and chatted for a while longer.

Zhu Di looked at Chang Mao and the others and said with a smile, "You guys have worked hard too, protecting your nephew all the way. You've done a great job!"

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Chang Mao showed considerable respect for the Prince of Yan, unlike his usual arrogant demeanor. He replied, "Your Highness, you are too kind. Protecting the eldest grandson of the Emperor is simply our duty!"

Upon hearing this, Zhu Di nodded, then looked at his eldest nephew with affection and said, "It's getting late!"

"Nephew, let's go into the city first! Your aunt has had the courtyard all tidied up. You should rest in Beiping for a couple of days and recharge!"

Upon hearing this, Zhu Xiong Ying bowed and said, "I appreciate your kindness, Fourth Uncle and Fourth Aunt! But since I have received the Emperor's decree, I should be stationed in the army and cannot live in the city—"

Everyone was stunned upon hearing this.

Only Li Wenzhong's eyes shone brightly, as if he were deep in thought.

As the art of war says: "The best generals of old always led by example."

The eldest grandson of the emperor is truly a dragon among men!

At such a young age, to be able to understand these things, one's future achievements are limitless!

As expected of his uncle and aunt, such a precious grandson they dote on!

He even has the air of an uncle!

It took Zhu Di a while to react. He patted his nephew's arm hard and laughed, "Good! Well done! Your fourth uncle underestimated you!"

"Since my nephew has made up his mind, your fourth uncle won't stop you! But if you need anything, remember to come to us anytime!"

"Thank you, Fourth Uncle!"

Zhu Xiong Ying responded.

People like Lan Yu and Chang Mao all felt deep respect for him!

The impression on all the civil and military officials present was greatly deepened!

That afternoon.

Zhu Xiong Ying ordered his entourage to camp outside the city. He carried some gifts and followed his fourth uncle, Zhu Di, into Beiping City to visit his aunt, Xu Shi, and other relatives.

Upon entering the mansion.

Then a beautiful woman, dressed in a royal blue dress embroidered with peonies, with a gentle and graceful demeanor, stood waiting under the eaves.

Before his fourth uncle could introduce him, Zhu Xiong Ying quickly stepped forward, bowed, and said, "Nephew greets Aunt!"

Madam Xu quickly grabbed her nephew's arm, her eyes instantly reddening, and said, "Grandson of the Emperor, please rise! You must be exhausted from your journey and have suffered so much. Please don't stand on ceremony!"

"It's still cold outside, come inside quickly. The wood brazier has been burning all morning, it's quite warm now!"

"Having received the prince's letter earlier, I've already had someone prepare rock sugar lotus seed soup to warm me up and ward off the chill!"

Upon hearing this, Zhu Di nodded and said, "Nephew, as your aunt said! Now that you're here, make yourself at home. Don't be shy, come inside!"

I couldn't refuse the hospitality of my fourth uncle's family.

After responding, Zhu Xiong Ying entered the hall and greeted his two cousins ​​beside him.

One was named Zhu Gaoxu, and the other was named Zhu Gaosui.

Now, let's talk about my cousin Zhu Gaoxu, who is only seven years old. He is a chubby-faced boy with a clever look in his eyes, and his features are very similar to his fourth uncle's.

As for his cousin Zhu Gaosui, he was only four years old and a little timid. He timidly hid behind his aunt, showing only half of his face, and kept curiously looking at her.

After exchanging greetings, Aunt Xu sighed, "Knowing that the eldest grandson of the Emperor was coming, Gao Xu and Gao Sui have been talking about it every day. Today they've finally met him—"

Zhu Xiong Ying laughed and said, "Aunt, don't worry! I'll stay in Beiping for a while longer, and when I find the opportunity, I'll definitely get to know my brothers better!"

After this conversation, everyone took their seats according to their status as host and guest.

Just then, the maid brought in the white fungus porridge.

After taking a few sips, the chill dissipated.

Zhu Di, in his dominant position, inevitably started chatting about everyday matters.

They inquired carefully about the health of Old Zhu, Empress Ma, and Biao'er's father.

Zhu Xiong Ying answered.

Two incense sticks have burned.

They chatted about their residence with their aunt, Madam Xu.

Zhu Xiong Ying rose and bowed, saying, "To be honest, Aunt, I've come today for two reasons: first, to pay my respects, and second, to inform you that I'm not staying in the city, but will be living and eating with the soldiers in the military camp these days!"

Xu looked surprised, her laughter faded, and she glanced at her husband.

She frowned and said hastily, "The environment in the military camp is no better than at home!"

"The eldest grandson of the Emperor must be exhausted from his journey, and he's at the age where he's growing. What do you say, Your Highness?"

Zhu Di raised his eyes and said, "My nephew explained the reason to us before we entered the city!"

"We think he's absolutely right! He's the eldest grandson of the Ming Emperor, he should have this responsibility, so don't stop him!"

"After we finish eating, we'll accompany my nephew to the West City Camp!"

Xu was kind-hearted and also knew how to be polite.

She quickly nodded and said, "But as Your Highness said! Since the eldest grandson of the emperor has made a decision, I will not say anything more! Let the servants take those warm quilts to the military camp, so that they don't get cold tonight—"

Princess Xu immediately summoned her servants, gave them some instructions, and seeing that it was getting late, hurriedly ordered the preparation of a banquet.

The family dinner began.

Zhu Xiong Ying looked up and saw a table full of dishes.

There are roasted mutton, stewed pork knuckle, and fish stewed in an iron pot—mostly Beijing specialties!

Aunt Xu had clearly put a lot of thought into it, repeatedly urging him to eat more.

Zhu Xiong Ying then raised her glass and toasted each of the two elders.

Until dusk fell.

As she was leaving the Prince of Yan's residence, Madam Xu had her maid bring two thicker cotton robes, saying, "You may not know, but even though it's almost March, Beiping is still very cold!"

"These clothes were sewn by me; they should fit you well—"

Zhu Di laughed and said, "Nephew, quickly accept this! Around the New Year, your aunt made two outfits for you, but she didn't provide the exact measurements, so we don't know if they're too big or too small!"

Seeing how considerate and thoughtful his fourth aunt was.

Then Zhu Di, the fourth uncle, spoke up.

How can one refuse when bound by family ties?

After all, we are all a loving family!

Zhu Xiong Ying felt a warmth in her heart and quickly replied:

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"Thank you so much, Auntie!!"

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