When Ming Na heard the news, she was surprised at first, and then had some complicated feelings. It has been nearly three years since she last saw this Noga royal family whom she once regarded as her friends. She has grown up, and what has he become
She had no contact with the Security Bureau for a long time, so the information she could get related to Nojia was brought back from Maicheng by businessmen. She only knew that Nuojia had experienced several minor turmoils in the country, but now the situation had stabilized and the king's side had the upper hand. Because of the stain of his defeat, Jedda has not yet been able to become the official crown prince, but in terms of qualifications and prestige, he is undoubtedly the leader of the younger generation of the Noga royal family. I believe it is only a matter of time before he becomes the next king.
But Ming Na always remembers that when she escaped death and returned to Xi'an, she heard Jada say on that street corner: "No, he is not my friend, but my enemy." She wanted to help He was even suspected by Goodwin and other compatriots. He originally thought that they were friends and should not mind, but he did not expect that the other party did not regard him as a friend from the beginning to the end. So the friendship she gave in the past was meaningless
Alex carefully observed the changes in Mingna's expression and asked softly: "Are you happy that he is here? After all, you were friends once."
Ming Na pursed her lips: "Who is his friend? I am his enemy!" After a pause, she added: "Forget it, since our two countries are no longer hostile, he thought I was dead. There is no need for me to recognize him, lest he become depressed."
Alex smiled slightly, feeling that the matter was not worthy of further discussion, so he threw it aside.
But Mingna thought of another thing: "Strange, why did he suddenly come for a state visit? Could it be..." After he controlled the domestic situation, did he start to think about other countries? Ming Na suddenly became alert.
The ambition to expand territory is engraved in the bones of the members of the Noga royal family. They cannot give up easily just because they suffered a loss, not to mention that Noga still has survival needs now. Even with food aid from East and Shaonan. Nuojia has always been a country with underdeveloped agriculture. If it wants to develop its national power without constraints, it must get rid of its dependence on other countries for food. Noga will never stop expanding, the only difference is the length of time.
Alex frowned slightly when he heard this. Before he could express his opinion, Mingna had already put on a cute and curious smile and asked the businessman who was chatting at the table: "Uncle, why is the Duke of Noga Coming to visit our country? To celebrate Cinco de Mayo?"
Several businessmen laughed: "Of course not! The Nuojia people don't seem to be used to celebrating May Day. They came here for our King's birthday. His Majesty the King will turn sixty this June. This is a big deal. Something worth celebrating. I heard that Shaonan, Van'a and Kamega will send envoys over! Even Prince Weisha who is in exile in Shaonan will come." Really? ! "Ming Na's surprise was not fake, "But didn't His Majesty the King say that he doesn't plan to hold a grand celebration this year? Because the war has only been over for a few years and the people need to recuperate, I heard that the king also specifically ordered that large-scale celebrations are not allowed across the country, and that lords are not allowed to increase taxes in the territory in this name, nor are they allowed to ask for money from civilians and merchants in this name. Any physical objects or money. Unexpectedly, other countries sent envoys. "
"His Majesty the Great and Merciful King!" One of the businessmen raised his glass and shouted loudly before smiling, "The King thinks about us. He does not plan to hold a grand celebration, but his sixtieth birthday cannot be casual. It’s just past! There is only one sixty-year-old birthday in a person’s life! Besides, we East have made so much contribution to the peace of the continent. It is not appropriate for other countries to send people to celebrate the birthday of our king, " May Day is coming soon. In order to give us businessmen a chance to make a fortune, His Majesty announced just the day before yesterday that a large-scale fair will be held for ten days after May Day. Businessmen only need to register. You can get a stall to do business in the market place, and ordinary civilians can also sell their home products. You only need to hand over one-tenth of your income as tax after the market is over! This is a good opportunity for us! Think about it, with May Day and the King's birthday celebrations, how many people should come to the market! "The man raised his wine glass, and his companions also stood up and toasted into the void. The diners around him saw it and responded one after another. Mingna got the answer and chimed in with a smile. She hurriedly finished her lunch. , then he and Alex led the horse and left the small restaurant.
We arrived at a quiet street corner with few people around. She then said: "I thought there really wouldn't be a King's birthday celebration this year. I didn't expect that other countries would send envoys to congratulate me. I'm afraid it will be even grander than in previous years!"
Alex smiled slightly: "Whether it's grand or not is secondary. The most important thing is...for the market. The venue, funds, personnel arrangements, security work, etc. There are many and complicated things. And they involve Ito City. There are many forces in the area. I am afraid that the next few meetings of the Noble Council will focus on the arrangements for the two celebrations. Even if some nobles are not interested in this kind of carnival activity with civilians as the protagonist, they will be attracted by the visiting foreign missions. land."
Minna suddenly realized: "So that's it! As long as the attention of the noble council is diverted, His Majesty the King will have time to deal with the Crown Prince's affairs. From now on. May Day. Birthday celebration in June. It will take at least two days before and after. A month and a half! When the matter is over, His Highness's injuries will also be healed. Are you still afraid of the Queen playing tricks by then?!"
Alex nodded: "It seems that this is His Majesty's intention. I remember that at the beginning of the year, the etiquette officer asked the king whether he would invite foreign royal family members to attend the birthday. At that time, the king rejected this on the grounds that he did not want to make a big deal this year. Proposal. Therefore, various countries later decided to send only a few envoys to congratulate them. We had not received any news before. Unexpectedly, we saw foreign envoys running so openly on the streets of the Royal City today.
Minna blinked. Make eye contact with Alex. All laughed.
She stretched. Said: "It seems that His Majesty the King already has a way to deal with the dispute between the crown prince. Jada's visit is not for any sinister purpose. We don't have to worry so much. By the way!" She slapped her palms. "The celebrations have been going on for two consecutive months! Is it possible that your father's wedding will be postponed?"
Alex was stunned. Smiling: "Do you still remember this?"
"Of course I remember, don't you care?" Ming Na pushed him, "Tell me, is it possible to do something?"
Alex lowered his head and thought for a while, then said: "Yes, but the effect will not be great. I thought of another thing. Maybe... solving the problem fundamentally is the best way."
Ming Na was puzzled: "What do you mean by fundamentally solving the problem?"
"Don't worry about this." Alex took the reins from her hand, "You'll know it soon anyway." After a pause, he added: "It should be soon."
Ming Na stared at him and pulled back the reins: "If you don't tell me, don't tell me. I'm not interested."
They walked around for a while, and then Mingna caught a glimpse of a white building not far ahead that was heavily shaded by trees. When she realized where it was, she slowed down, took a look at the house, then lowered her head and stared at the tips of her shoes, hesitating. Should I go or not
"What's wrong?" Alex immediately noticed her change, "Where is that place?"
Ming Na pursed her lips and did not answer. He just pulled him up and walked towards the house. As he got closer, he coughed twice, let go of his hand, put on a bright smile on his face, ran up briskly, smiled at the white-haired old man who was pruning branches and leaves at the door and said: "Grandpa Marshall, when I get to Iraq Dong is here. Long time no see. How are you
The old man slowly turned his head and looked at her for a long time with squinted eyes. Then she smiled and said, "Ah...it's Xiao Mingna. When did you come here? How are your parents?"
"They just arrived yesterday. They are all very good." Ming Na took the big scissors from his hand. "Shall I help you? How is your health? I brought you a few bottles of medicine. You drink one bottle every day and you will be fine soon."
"Really? Thank you then." Marshall took the scissors back with a smile, "I don't need your help, I just cut casually."
At this time another young man came. Say hello to Marshall from a distance: "Grandpa Marshall! I'm here again! How are you doing recently?"
"Ah... it's Xiang... Xiangli, right? How's work going? It's going pretty well
"Very good, I just got a salary increase!" The young man took out a cane. See if it works? "
Marshall took it and took a closer look: "It's so beautiful. Thank you." He walked a few steps and nodded repeatedly: "It's easy to use. Not bad." He glanced at the wrapped candy box in the young man's hand and smiled. He said: "They are all in the house. Everyone is almost here. Come in quickly."
"Okay!" The young man walked briskly into the house, "Come quickly too!"
Minna was a little curious: "Grandpa Marshall, what are you going to do?"
Marshall smiled and said: "There are two children in the orphanage who have birthdays today. We held a celebration party for them. Many people came to participate. You also come
Before Ming Na could answer, someone else came. A young man in his twenties supported an old woman, stood in front with a smile, and greeted Marshall. When Marshall saw them, his eyes became softer: "Here you come? Does your foot still hurt?"
The old woman shook her head: "It's been fine for a long time. It's because these children are worried that they don't allow me to go out." She turned to the young man and smiled: "I'm here, you can go to work in peace." The young man He hugged her gently and said: "Then I will go back to the office first. I will pick you up tonight. Please be careful." Then he handed the bag in her hand to her: "Don't drink, and don't be tired. Remember to walk less. Uncle Marshall, please take good care of her." Marshall nodded in agreement, and then he left with peace of mind.
The old woman sighed helplessly: "It's him. Actually, I'm still strong." Marshall advised her softly: "They just care about you."
Ming Na smiled and greeted the old woman: "Grandma Luna, do you still remember me?"
The old woman looked at her doubtfully, a little unsure: "Are you... Ming... Minnie?"
"My name is Ming Na." Ming Na jumped in front of her, "Don't you remember? I used to be a guest at your home."
"Really?" the old woman Luna was a little embarrassed, "I am getting old and my memory is getting worse and worse. Are you Vasily's friend? That kid! You are always busy with work and rarely even go home. Come over when you are free
Ming Na opened her mouth and caught a glimpse of Marshall's look at her. He agreed casually. The latter quickly attracted Luna's attention: "What's in your bag? Have you made ginger again? You just dote on them too much. What if they have cavities?"
Luna muttered: "It's only today. It's the children's birthday. What's wrong with making them something they like to eat? You just take care of too much!"
Two little heads popped up in the room. When they saw Luna, they cheered and called back to their friends. A dozen children ran out together and dragged Marshall and Luna into the house. Someone had cleverly taken the fragrant bag and entered the restaurant early, shouting about sharing the delicious food. Marshall was so anxious that he drank repeatedly. He stopped, but Luna stopped him from teaching those boys a lesson. The room was full of laughter and mingling. He looked a little lonely.
Alex asked softly: "Are you...sad?"
Ming Na bit her lip. He shook his head and said: "Although...Grandpa Marshall doesn't love me as much as before, but he is very happy now, and this is enough
She was indeed sad, but Grandpa Marshall, who wasted half his life for his grandmother Mei Li, was finally able to put the past behind him and have a life of his own. Seeing the happy smile on his face, what did her sadness mean
They found Marshall's office and threw a bag of gold coins into the donation box. He left the medicine and instructions for taking it with the two old people, and then quietly left the orphanage.
Ming Na felt a little depressed. Alex accompanies her as she wanders around aimlessly. As evening approached, Ming Na was shocked to realize that she had promised to help her friend find a place to stay temporarily, but in the end, all her time was wasted. She apologized to her friend in shame: "I'm sorry...for my sake. It caused you to waste your time." …”
Alex raised his chin arrogantly and said, "Idiot! Do you think a place worthy of my status is so easy to find? I had no intention of finding a house today. No matter what, I have to find a house." Let’s go to the inn for one night first. This has nothing to do with you at all!”
Although I knew he was comforting me, why was his face so flat? Ming Na secretly rolled her eyes. He put aside his head and said, "I know! I'll look for it with you tomorrow, okay?" Kes snorted with his nose extremely arrogantly. He took her arm and walked forward, "Now help me find a good inn. It should be clean and comfortable, convenient for travel, and the location should not be too conspicuous, so as not to be discovered by my father too early!"
"Hey, let go, I will leave on my own!" Ming Na hummed and was half pulled and half dragged away by him.
Before the sun went down, they finally found a mid-range inn in a remote neighborhood near the downtown area. The owner had more than thirty years of experience and was experienced and discerning. Alex talked to him for a short while and then was satisfied and booked a room.
Minna hurried back to the Kaduo mansion on horseback. When she entered, she happened to meet her aunt Lilith as she escorted several ladies out. She pretended to be a lady again, said hello to them and slipped into the house. She could faintly hear the women whispering about "illegitimate daughter" behind her. She curled her lips and did not refute. Anyway, it was not like she had never heard such words before.
When she returned to the room, she saw Melissa standing there with a straight face as soon as she entered the door. Her mood suddenly turned sour: "What are you doing here?"
"Always at your command." Melissa replied dryly, her eyes quickly glanced at Minna, and she suddenly felt proud, "Miss Minna, noble ladies must always pay attention to their words and deeds, how can you be so careless
Ming Na was confused when she heard this. She lowered her head and looked at herself. She suddenly realized what she was doing. She quickly took out her magic wand and turned the grass-green skirt back to red. She said, "Thank you for reminding me. I forgot."
Melissa's eyes widened: "This...how did your skirt..."
"It's just a little magic." Ming Na smiled, "My mother once said that noble ladies must always pay attention to what they wear. Sometimes, in order to adapt to the environment, making small changes in clothing is what noble ladies should master. What about your skills! After all, changing clothes just when you go to one place is not what an aristocratic lady should do." She said the words "noble lady" with particular emphasis, which made Melissa turn pale. Ren angrily said in a low voice, "You're right," and hurriedly left, completely forgetting that she was here to "wait for orders."
Ming Na snorted and closed the door, silently complaining about the quality of the maids in the Kado family. When she pretended to be a maid in the past, she would not be so unsightly. This Melissa is really an experienced senior maid. Beryl has not come back either. Only Lilith, Manda and Ming Na are eating and stirring. Holding the broth, but not taking a bite. Lilith asked her expressionlessly what she had done today, and she responded casually. The former didn't say anything, just glanced at Ming Na a few times, and suddenly said: "I heard that you were interested in the maid I sent. Not very satisfied, what's going on? Melissa has been serving me for more than ten years and has never made me angry. Is there something wrong with her etiquette? "
Minna paused and glanced at Melissa, who had been standing behind Lilith for some time. She didn't know much about Ito's etiquette and customs. My habit is that servants are absolutely not allowed to touch my things without my permission, no matter what. Be it clothes, books, shoes and socks...or jewelry. "
Melissa immediately interrupted: "I didn't touch your jewelry! Miss Minna."
"That's because you don't know where I put them." Minna broke off a piece of bread casually, "But you opened my drawer and looked through it. Don't tell me you were looking for shoes for me. I thought You’ll put your belt there!”
"That's enough!" Lilith glared at Melissa sharply, and then said coldly to Ming Na, "Since Melissa can't satisfy you, I'll send someone else there. I hope you won't be beaten again this time. Come back!"
Ming Na was noncommittal. As long as the maid sent was not arrogant, she would be easy to get along with.
But when she saw the new maid, she was still surprised. That face and eyes looked very familiar. She couldn't hide the doubts in her heart: "You...you
The maid with some gray hair smiled and saluted her: "Good night, Miss Minna. My name is Marcy, Marcy.