mtl008 Chapter 228 Visiting the Sacrifice
Chapter 228 Visiting the Sacrifice
"Your Majesty has made thorough arrangements. You don't have to worry too much," Chen Zigui said gently, hoping to bring some comfort and peace of mind to Cen Jiexiao with his words.
However, Cen Jiexiao's brows were still furrowed, and she seemed to be hesitant to speak. Chen Zigui keenly noticed her strangeness, and frowned slightly, his concern overflowing in his words: "Jiexiao, you look a little strange, are you feeling unwell?"
Cen Jiexiao was startled and quickly covered it up, "I just suddenly felt a little cold." She tried to force a smile to hide her inner panic.
Chen Zigui shook his head slightly, clearly not believing her. He reached out and gently felt her forehead, only to feel relieved after confirming she didn't have a fever. "You really don't have a fever? Why do you suddenly feel cold?" His tone was filled with concern and confusion.
Cen Jiexiao felt the warmth of his palm, and the concern warmed her heart, but also made her even more uneasy. She slightly avoided his gaze and whispered, "It's really nothing, maybe I'm just wearing too little."
"The sea breeze is strong here, you should wear more clothes." Chen Zigui said, taking off his cloak and gently draping it over her shoulders. The cloak carried his warmth, like a warm barrier, protecting her.
Cen Jiexiao subconsciously wanted to refuse, but Chen Zigui held her shoulders and said, "Don't move. Be obedient."
His tone was gentle but unquestionable, so Cen Jiexiao obediently let him put the cloak on. A faint scent of sandalwood lingered at the tip of her nose, a unique scent of Chen Zigui, which made her feel at ease.
"Thank you, senior brother." Cen Jiexiao said softly, with a hint of gratitude and dependence in her tone.
"Why are you being so polite to me?" Chen Zigui smiled, looking at her gently. "If you feel uncomfortable, just say it. Don't always force yourself to do it."
Cen Jiexiao lowered her head, avoiding his gaze, and whispered, "I'm just... a little worried."
"What are you worried about?" Chen Zigui asked, "Are you worried about the Zhenxi Army?"
Cen Jiexiao was silent for a moment, then nodded gently. The affairs of the Zhenxi Army had always been a source of worry for her, making her unable to sleep or eat.
"Don't worry, His Majesty has made arrangements. Everything will be fine." Chen Zigui comforted him, "You must believe in His Majesty, and believe in yourself."
Cen Jiexiao raised her head and looked into Chen Zigui's determined eyes, feeling a little more at ease. She took a deep breath, trying to calm her inner uneasiness, and said, "I know. I will do my best."
"That's right." Chen Zigui smiled and patted her shoulder. "You are Sister Cen Xiao. I believe you."
Cen Jiexiao was infected by his confident tone, and a smile appeared on the corner of her mouth. Yes, she is Cen Jiexiao, she can't be defeated by difficulties, she must believe in herself and believe that everything will be fine.
Chen Zigui felt relieved as he watched Cen Jiexiao gradually regain her composure. He knew that Cen Jiexiao was thoughtful and responsible, so she was prone to worrying about others and neglecting herself.
"Sister Cen, I know you care about the people of this world, but you must also take care of yourself." Chen Zigui said earnestly, "If you collapse from exhaustion, who will protect the people of this world?"
Cen Jiexiao was stunned for a moment, then she understood the deeper meaning of his words. Yes, she always thought about others and forgot that she also needed to be taken care of.
"Thank you, Big Brother." Cen Jiexiao looked at Chen Zigui gratefully, "I know what to do now."
"This is the Cen Jiexiao I know." Chen Zigui said with a smile, "Okay, let's go. Don't keep others waiting too long."
Cen Jiexiao nodded and walked towards the crowd with Chen Zigui. The sunlight shone on them, as if covering them with a layer of golden light.
On the shores of the East China Sea, the tides ebb and flow, and the sea breeze blows gently. Shai Zhen, clad in a magnificent dragon robe and crown, walks with resounding footsteps toward the altar.
The altar towered into the sky, surrounded by flying colorful flags and overflowing incense, exuding a solemn atmosphere. Shai Zhen followed the ritual, burning incense and praying for good weather, peace and prosperity for the country and the people.
The sea breeze, carrying a hint of salty air, rushed in from the depths of the distant ocean, blowing the flags on the coast, making a fluttering sound, as if the sea god was roaring softly.
Bright yellow banners, symbolizing the supremacy of imperial power, billowed in the wind like surging golden waves. Shai Zhen wore a dragon robe embroidered with twelve emblems, each pattern radiating the emperor's majesty. He wore a crown studded with gemstones, each gem radiating a dazzling light. He stepped onto the altar, each step steady and powerful, as if treading upon the heart of a giant, rumbling and resonating, awe-inspiring the hearts of everyone present.
The altar is soaring into the clouds, as if touching the end of the sky. It is made of flawless white jade. Under the sunlight, it shines with dazzling light, like a ladder connecting heaven and earth, sacred and inviolable.
Around the altar, five-colored banners fluttered in the wind. The interplay of red, yellow, green, white, and black represented the interplay of the five elements, signifying a stable state and favorable weather. Incense curled from the incense burner, carrying a unique aroma of agarwood and seaweed, filling the air with a solemnity and a touch of mystery.
Civil and military officials dressed in court robes, arranged according to rank, stood solemnly. They looked respectful, their eyes following Chai Zhen's figure, with awe and desire flashing in their eyes. They were in awe of the supremacy of imperial power and longing to be appreciated and promoted by the emperor.
Behind the civil and military officials stood the royal family, adorned in their finery. The empress was dignified and regal, the mother of the nation. The concubines were flamboyant and glamorous, competing for beauty. The princes were heroic and high-spirited, and the princesses were charming and innocent. Each wore a formal, formal smile, masking a turbulent heart. Deep within their eyes, they concealed their own thoughts: anticipation, worry, ambition, and anxiety.
Cen Jiexiao stood at the edge of the crowd, her plain dress making her seem inconspicuous amid the vibrant colors, almost blending into the background. She lowered her head slightly, trying to minimize her presence, but she could still feel the gazes from all sides—curious, probing, disgusted, even a hint of greed. These glances were like needles pricking her, making her feel very uncomfortable.
Chen Zigui sensed Cen Jiexiao's uneasiness. Without a word, he leaned slightly to the side, his tall frame blocking most of the sight directed at Cen Jiexiao. Like a mountain, he shielded her beneath his wings. He tilted his head slightly and whispered, a voice only the two of them could hear, "Stand behind me." His voice was deep and powerful, carrying a reassuring force, as if to say, Don't be afraid, I'm here.