Chapter 1004: Chapter 1004 Farewell (2)

Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation

The day of departure arrived in the blink of an eye. The entire Gu household bustled with activity early in the morning as everyone started packing.

After breakfast, Gu Chengrui observed the tearful Gu Chenglin. “Enough tears,” he chided gently. “How old are you? Remember, the residence will be yours to manage in the future.”

“One crucial piece of advice—if the First Prince or Second Prince come knocking, maintain a low profile as soon as possible. Otherwise, things could turn ugly for you.”

“Though your concern seems a bit premature, I’ll definitely keep it in mind,” Gu Chenglin replied with a nod.

“Help me with the luggage,” Gu Chengrui instructed, picking up his suitcase and heading outside.

Seeing this, Gu Chenglin immediately grabbed the luggage and followed suit.

Soon, Zhou Ying and the others joined them.

Outside, a group of guards awaited them, escorting a carriage. After a while, Gu Wanning arrived with the three children, disembarking from the carriage.

“Guoguo, Chenchen, are you really leaving?” The Eldest Prince rushed over to them upon seeing them.

“Yep, we’re off to sea! I heard it’s vast and beautiful. Want to come with us?” Chenchen chirped excitedly.

“Nonsense! The First Prince has his duties. He can’t just abandon them,” Zhou Ying interjected.

“Auntie, are you absolutely certain you can’t bring me along?” The First Prince pleaded with Zhou Ying, his eyes filled with hope.

“I’m sorry, but it’s impossible. Your position demands a certain level of responsibility, and a heavy burden awaits you in the future. Now is the time to hone your skills, so playtime will have to wait,” Zhou Ying explained patiently.

“What about me? Can I come? Auntie, I promise I can behave!” The Second Prince piped up, eagerly pointing at himself.

“You’re his brother,” Zhou Ying countered gently. “You too must dedicate yourself to your training. You and your brother will share this responsibility. Naturally, that means no vacations for you either.”

The Second Prince’s face immediately fell upon hearing this. In contrast, the First Prince couldn’t help but feel a flicker of relief at his brother’s disappointment.

The two brothers then approached Guoguo, Chenchen, and Third Fatty, eager to present the gifts they had prepared.

Meanwhile, Gu Chengrui strolled over to Gu Wanning. “Why are you here?” he asked, concern etched on his face. “It’s not safe bringing the three children with you.”

“I’m alright for now,” Gu Wanning replied, her eyes tearing up. “Since you’re leaving, I wanted to see you off.”

With a hint of hesitation, she asked, “Must you leave?”

Sensing that the Emperor hadn’t shared the whole story, Gu Chengrui just nodded.

“I’ll escort you out of the city.” Gu Wanning nodded in response.

“There’s no need,” Gu Chengrui insisted. “Now that we’re family, there’s no need for such formalities anymore.”

“But…” Gu Wanning began, trailing off.

“No buts,” Gu Chengrui cut her off gently. “You and your children have your own responsibilities. We have plenty of guards for protection, and there’s nothing to worry about.”

Gu Wanning nodded in agreement. She then retrieved two food boxes and two bags from the carriage. “A small token of my appreciation,” she offered. “Please accept these. And remember, come back and visit soon.”

“Of course,” Gu Chengrui promised. “You all must take care as well. Remember, if you need anything, don’t hesitate to speak with the Emperor. Additionally, the jade pendant I gave you before has health-boosting properties. Wear it at all times.”

“I understand,” Gu Wanning acknowledged solemnly.

“Let’s go,” Gu Chengrui declared, picking up his luggage and walking past her. He then stowed the luggage in the carriage and helped Zhou Ying and the others settle in before taking his seat.

Just as they were about to set off, Mr. Gu and Second Uncle Gu, accompanied by their families, arrived in a flurry. After exchanging farewells, Mr. Gu and Second Uncle Gu joined the carriages, slowly making their way toward the city gate.