In the study of the Eastern Palace, Xiao Chengjing looked at the message delivered by carrier pigeon from Jiangnan, presented by Ying Yi. It detailed Shen Yuewei's premature birth, her near-death experience, and the eventual safe return of both mother and daughter. Every word felt like a red-hot iron, searing into his heart!
"Premature birth due to shock... breech presentation... severe postpartum hemorrhage... a narrow escape from death..." He murmured, his hand gripping the letter trembling violently, his knuckles turning white, and the veins on the back of his hand bulging! A surge of overwhelming anger and heart-wrenching fear instantly engulfed him! He could almost see her pale face, hear her painful screams, and feel the despair of her life hanging by a thread!
"Imperial Consort! The Zhao Family!" A terrifying killing intent flashed in Xiao Chengjing's eyes as he slammed his fist hard on the solid mahogany desk, producing a dull thud! If he hadn't planned a counterattack in advance, if Wen Bai and his parents hadn't risked their lives to protect him in Jiangnan... he simply couldn't imagine the consequences!
He jumped to his feet: "Prepare the horses! I must head south immediately!" He couldn't wait a moment longer; he wanted to see her and the child safe and sound! He wanted to hold them tightly in his arms!
"Your Highness, you mustn't!" Yingyi hurriedly knelt down to stop him. "Although the Consort has been imprisoned and the Zhao family is being dealt with, the aftermath in the court has not yet subsided, and His Majesty's anger has not yet subsided. Many matters of aftermath urgently need Your Highness's attention! Moreover, His Majesty has just issued an edict ordering you to enter the palace for an audience immediately! Leaving the capital at this time may invite criticism and give others a handle to use against you, Your Highness!"
Xiao Chengjing froze on the spot, his chest heaving violently, his eyes filled with struggling pain and helplessness. Yingyi was right. He had brought down the Imperial Concubine with irrefutable evidence and swift action, but the aftermath, appeasing the court officials, and stabilizing public sentiment all required his presence as the Crown Prince. More importantly, his father had summoned him at this moment… He couldn't leave.
"Wei'er..." He closed his eyes in anguish, his voice hoarse and broken, filled with helplessness. He was the Crown Prince, wielding immense power, yet he couldn't be by her side when she needed him most!
The atmosphere in the imperial study was heavy. Emperor Xiao Yin sat on the dragon throne, seemingly having aged considerably overnight. The betrayal and malice of his beloved concubine, and the greed and corruption of his maternal clan, had dealt him a heavy blow.
"Jing'er," the Emperor's voice was filled with deep weariness, "regarding the Zhao family matter... you handled it well. Decisive and swift action. I... misplaced my trust in her, almost causing a catastrophe." This was the first time the Emperor had so clearly affirmed the Crown Prince's decisiveness in handling the Consort's matter.
Xiao Chengjing lowered his head: "Your subject is terrified. It is your duty to rid the country of traitors."
The emperor looked at him with a complicated expression: "The Shen family of Jiangnan... has given birth to a princess for you?" His tone revealed neither joy nor anger.
Xiao Chengjing's heart tightened, and he immediately knelt down, saying, "Yes, Father! Shen Yuewei gave birth prematurely a few days ago, but thanks to the protection of Heaven, both mother and daughter are safe! Your son begs Your Majesty..."
"Rise," the emperor interrupted him, sighing. "Premature birth... she must have been frightened. That child... is, after all, my granddaughter, of the Xiao family bloodline." He paused, seemingly choosing his words carefully. "Your actions this time, though ruthless, have rid the country of a scourge, and your merits outweigh your faults. I know you are anxious... Once the situation in the court has stabilized somewhat, I will grant you permission to go to Jiangnan. Go see them, mother and daughter, and... also, see my little granddaughter whom I have yet to meet."
Xiao Chengjing suddenly looked up, his eyes gleaming with unbelievable joy! Not only did his father not pursue the matter with Wei'er and the child, but he also... tacitly allowed him to visit them, and even acknowledged the child's royal bloodline! This was undoubtedly an immense favor and recognition!
"Your subject...kowtows to thank Your Majesty for Your Majesty's grace!" Xiao Chengjing kowtowed deeply, his voice tinged with a barely perceptible sob. The heaviest stone weighing on his heart had finally been removed!
Continue read on readnovelmtl.com