Emperor Wen led Xiao Jinghan into the imperial study with a smile on his face and asked gently, "Han'er, what have you gained from your trip to Jiangnan?"
Xiao Jinghan lowered his head and replied softly, "It's really hard for me to say it!"
A flicker of doubt flashed across Emperor Wen's eyes, but he quickly regained his composure and pressed on, "Are you still afraid of me? Why don't you dare report the truth?"
Xiao Jinghan sighed helplessly, slowly raised his head, and stared at Emperor Wen. His expression was solemn as he spoke, "Your Majesty, be advised! This time, while traveling to Jiangnan, I was pursued by men sent by Xiao Jingyi and nearly lost my life. Furthermore, from what I've observed, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince's influence is already deeply entrenched in the Jiangnan region, and the Third Prince, unwilling to be outdone, is actively expanding his influence southward. Only the Fifth Prince's in-laws seem to have made no obvious moves. I venture to speculate...that the Crown Prince and the Third Prince may be plotting to expand their territory southward!"
Emperor Wen nodded slightly in agreement. "Hmm, this analysis is brilliant! It truly is the fruit of my careful instruction! After you marry, you must march together with Luo Lingyue to reclaim the land of Nanyi. This is the test I give you!"
Xiao Jinghan's eyes flashed with a deep and complex light, and the corners of his mouth rose slightly, revealing a barely perceptible teasing: "Your Majesty, aren't you afraid that I will become the second Xiao Jingyi?"
The smile on Emperor Wen's face didn't reach his eyes. He simply said, "I know your ambitions extend far beyond Nanyi. You will surely become a loyal and devoted minister to a wise and virtuous ruler. The future new emperor of Dazhao will also need your full support. If you can successfully recapture Nanyi, when I ascend the throne of the Supreme Emperor, it will be your turn to take the throne of Regent!"
Xiao Jinghan chuckled and replied calmly, "I will obey your Majesty's command!" His voice seemed to contain an unspeakable determination and perseverance.
Emperor Wen waved his hand and asked him to go back. After Xiao Jinghan left, Kong Boda came out from behind the screen.
He whispered, "Your Majesty! You gave Xiao Jinghan so much power. Aren't you afraid that he will follow the old path of Prince Wu'an? I'm afraid that Xiao Jinghan will know the truth of that year..."
Emperor Wen's eyes were calm and indifferent. "He will never know the truth! All those who came before... except you, are now dead! I personally raised him to be a talented person! Moreover, for what happened back then, I owe it to his biological mother! I wonder if the Prime Minister has taken any action?"
After a brief hesitation, Kong Boda replied, "I suspect he may be looking for a suitable candidate for the Crown Prince's concubine, and he has been frequently visiting the residences of the generals lately."
Emperor Wen's eyes flashed with a cold light, as sharp as an ice cone: "It is not a good thing for civil officials to have close contacts with military generals! Keep a close eye on his every move and make sure to find out which family's girl he intends to choose." His voice was so cold and ruthless that it seemed to freeze the air.
Luo Lingyue slowly emerged from Yihuan Palace, her steps light yet firm, her eyes pensive, as if a myriad of thoughts were swirling within her. She strolled quietly along the paths of the imperial palace, letting the midsummer evening breeze gently caress her cheeks, bringing a touch of coolness and the fragrance of the flowers in the imperial garden.
As she walked, Luo Lingyue suddenly stopped. She raised her head, her hazy eyes gazing at the bright moon hanging high in the sky. The moonlight fell on her like water, reflecting her beautiful face and illuminating the waves of emotion deep in her heart.
Meanwhile, under a large tree not far away, Xiao Jinghan stood silently, his eyes never leaving Luo Lingyue. He quietly admired the stunning scene before him, taking in the unique aura emanating from her. Under the moonlight, Luo Lingyue looked like a fairy descending to earth, captivating him deeply.
Xiao Jinghan stood under a tree not far away, watching her quietly. Luo Lingyue in the moonlight and the shadow in his heart gradually merged into one person...
At this moment, Xiao Jinghan had already made up his mind, and he walked towards Luo Lingyue without hesitation.
When Xiao Jinghan gradually approached, Luo Lingyue did not turn around, but just asked quietly: "Are you opposed to our marriage?" Her voice seemed to carry a hint of resentment and helplessness.
Xiao Jinghan stared silently at Luo Lingyue's back, then responded softly, "In the past, I was indeed a little reluctant. But now, this idea has changed."
Hearing this, Luo Lingyue turned around abruptly, staring straight at Xiao Jinghan, and asked, "Why is there such a change?"
Xiao Jinghan smiled slightly, with a hint of indifference in his smile. He slowly replied: "There is no special reason... It's just because... Well, it's me who has dragged you down after all." His words seemed to hide many unspoken hardships.
Luo Lingyue seemed to have understood something, and she walked silently with Xiao Jinghan. Xiao Jinghan was extremely conflicted, and several times he couldn't help but want to explain things to her, but every time the words came to his lips, he swallowed them back.
The road ahead was long and winding, and he thought to himself that perhaps it would be better to wait for a suitable time to discuss it.
The two of them walked in silence until they left the palace. Xiao Jinghan personally helped Luo Lingyue onto the general's carriage and gently instructed the driver to drive carefully.
Luo Lingyue gently lifted the carriage's curtain and said softly to Xiao Jinghan outside with a smile on her face: "Xiao Jinghan, your niece is coming soon!"
After hearing this, Xiao Jinghan looked bewildered. He looked up at Luo Lingyue in confusion and asked, "My niece? How come I didn't know I had a niece?"
Luo Lingyue smiled slightly, a sly look flashing in her eyes. She deliberately answered slowly, "Yes, I heard that Xiao Jingyi's daughter is coming to the capital and is going to marry into the royal family!"
My dear, there is more to this chapter. Please click on the next page to continue reading. It will be even more exciting later!
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