As Ying turned into the guest house wing, his eyes narrowed at the sight of Chancellor Gao. He felt a strong urge to hide himself, but decided against it. He had already been crowned King, and at his age, it's simply unsightly for him to hide from a subject in such a manner.
He would face the chancellor, no matter how much he hates hearing the same old subject that was being broached.
"Ah... Your Highness! Your loyal subject pays my respect to you!" The chancellor bowed deeply in reverence.
"Chancellor. What a coincidence." Ying smiled.
"Yes, indeed." Chancellor Gao replied, but it was clear that the chancellor didn't really think so. Ying knew the chancellor must have come here to look for him. The man might be old but he's sharp. There was a very good reason why despite being a neutral force during Donghai's troubles, he was unharmed and his services retained. The tutor of both Prince Zhang and now Prince Ying, he was well-respected in court and even the previous King was respectful of him.
"Your Highness... I presume you are here to meet with Miss Gao."
"Yes." Ying replied unabashedly. No point hiding it if the chancellor had already taken the trouble to ambush him here. Ever since he was crowned, Chancellor Gao had petitioned for him to get married, pushing portraits of numerous women to him every now and then for choice. But Ying remained disinterested - he didn't exactly feel a great need to get married and plus, how could he marry any of those women when his mind was already preoccupied with one woman? At the same time, he might not be able to push it off much longer.
As a King, he not only has stately responsibilities but also family responsibilities. As the head of the family, he must marry and have children. At the same time, Gao Xingling would not be approved for she was merely a merchant, a commoner.
Chancellor Gao looked at the silent Ying. The young king would not be able to run away much longer. Sooner or later he'd have to fulfill his duties as a King and head of the Sima family, and that is exactly what Chancellor Gao has come to remind him of. If he does not fulfill those duties, he'd be deemed as unfit to rule. Although Donghai finally has a King, but it is no longer as strong as it used to be, and not all court officials were truly loyal to Ying - they surrendered merely out of fear and to save their own lives, but no doubt would raise up in arms against Ying if given the chance to. It would be harmful for him and Donghai if he tries to pull off any stunts that were against proper protocols.
"Your loyal subject shall not hold Your Highness up." Chancellor Gao bowed and left. There was no further need to bother the young King. From the look in his eyes, Chancellor Gao knew that the King was well aware of the risks.
Ying sighed in relief as he watched the Chancellor leave. He resumed his trip to the guest house. His heart beat faster as he went closer to the house. Waving away the servants, he went up to the door and knocked on it.
"Miss Gao. It is I..."