Xiao Chengjing looked at the secret report, his eyes deep and unfathomable. His anger subsided, transforming into a more dangerous and resolute determination. He picked up a vermilion brush and heavily circled several points on the map of Suzhou Prefecture.

"Send more manpower to thoroughly investigate these areas. Especially that small town; keep a close eye on everyone entering and leaving, particularly unfamiliar women! Also," he paused, his voice carrying an undeniable command, "find a way to contact the Shen family's manager in Suzhou, subtly inquire, and if necessary... use some methods. I need to know her whereabouts as soon as possible!"

He stood up, walked to the window, and gazed south. Jiangnan, a land shrouded in mist and rain. Shen Yuewei, do you think you can escape me by hiding there? The child in your womb is my flesh and blood, the bloodline of this imperial family! No matter where you are in the world, I will bring you… and my child back!

Beneath the tranquil surface of the Jiangnan water towns, undercurrents begin to stir. A hunt for the crown prince has begun.

After a brief respite, Shen Yuewei must also face the ever-approaching crisis, as well as the child in her womb who connects her to that cold-hearted man and to her destiny in both her past and present lives.

“Miss, look at this newly arrived ‘Sky Blue’ satin. Its color is as clear as the sky after a rain. Would you like me to make you a summer dress?” The maid Chun Tao held up a piece of shimmering satin, her voice light and cheerful, trying to dispel the lingering sorrow between her mistress’s brows.

Shen Yuewei snapped out of her reverie, her gaze falling on the satin. A forced smile played on her lips. "Yes, it's excellent. Keep it. It might come in handy at Madam Lin's lotus-viewing banquet in a few days." She needed to integrate into the Jiangnan social circle, needed the protection and convenience that came with being "Miss Shen," and also... to gather information. The Crown Prince had no wives or concubines; whether this child in her womb was a blessing or a curse remained to be seen. In their past life, they had been husband and wife, but where would this unbearable beginning in this life lead?

Meanwhile, in the capital city, thousands of miles away, the atmosphere inside the Zichen Palace was solemn.

"Father, the salt administration and canal transport in Jiangnan have long been plagued by corruption. This civil unrest is likely not a recent occurrence. I believe we should send capable individuals to thoroughly investigate, in order to reassure the people and restore order." The Third Prince, Xiao Chengyu, bowed and reported, his tone steady, his eyes gleaming with eager anticipation. Successfully completing this task would be a great achievement.

Emperor Xiao Che leaned back on his dragon throne, his gaze sweeping over his two sons standing below him. His third son, Cheng Yu, was young and ambitious, quite capable; Crown Prince Cheng Jing was always calm and composed, managing state affairs with remarkable efficiency, but… lately he seemed somewhat distracted?

"Crown Prince," the Emperor's gaze fell on Xiao Chengjing, "what do you think? Chengyu wants to go to Jiangnan to investigate the case. You will stay in the capital to assist me in coordinating the overall situation and allocating resources from all sides as backup."

This arrangement was originally sound. With the Third Prince leading the charge and the Crown Prince overseeing coordination from the central command, it gave the Third Prince a chance to gain experience while also highlighting the Crown Prince's central position.

Xiao Chengjing lowered his gaze, his long eyelashes casting a small shadow beneath his eyes. Jiangnan… Shen Yuewei was in Jiangnan! The eldest daughter of the Shen family, who had been “seriously ill” after that palace banquet and hastily sent to Jiangnan for “quiet recuperation” by the Shen family. She was carrying his child! His only heir! More importantly, she had been framed that night, and the mastermind had not yet been caught. She was alone, surrounded by danger. Should his third brother go? He didn't trust anyone to protect her, and he was even more afraid that someone would take the opportunity to cause trouble and harm her and the child!