Li Ji had initially agreed to enter the capital with the Xiliang Delegation to use their status as cover for himself.
But that was before he knew that Manman and Ah Qi had almost gotten married.
Now that he knew Prince Xiliang was Ah Qi, and he knew about Manman and Ah Qi's past, he was filled with regret.
He would rather have taken the long way around than let Manman and Ah Qi have anything to do with each other again.
Even though Manman had already made her stance clear, and Li Ji believed she had no romantic feelings for Ah Qi, he still felt a knot of discomfort in his chest. It was like a thorn stuck in his throat, a constant, nagging irritation.
For the rest of the journey, Li Ji stayed by Manman's side, never leaving her for a moment. He gave her no opportunity to have any contact with Ah Qi.
Along the way, they passed a post station, and the group stopped to rest.
