Just as Panqing uttered the words "invite trouble," a commotion arose ahead.
The Emperor had returned to Liangyi Hall.
Upon seeing the distant figure of the Emperor, Panqing couldn't help but shrink back, gently pulling Chu Ruoyan's hand and whispering, "Madam, we should leave while the Emperor hasn't noticed you!"
Chu Ruoyan hesitated, being pulled back two steps by her.
But when Panqing continued to urge her to leave, she found Chu Ruoyan standing still, hesitating, yet she withdrew her hand.
"...!" Panqing looked at her in astonishment, "Madam?"
Chu Ruoyan bit her lip, glanced back at the approaching imperial carriage, and finally, as if making up her mind, said, "No, I promised the Princess to help her, I must!"
"But—"
"Panqing!"
