Almost every grand ceremony sees assassination attempts of varying magnitudes, yet the swiftness with which this incident concluded, with no casualties, helped most to quickly stabilize their emotions.
Once everyone had calmed down, the judges began to determine the results.
In truth, the outcome of the competition was clear as day; Yang Mengchen’s first two arrows had both hit the bullseye. Even if her last arrow had not scored, the mere fact she had taken down an assassin from such a distance warranted her the undeniable first place, not to mention her third arrow also struck the bullseye.
Wu Feilan came second, Qi Qiuxin third.
Though somewhat shaken, witnessing Yang Mengchen’s superior Archery Skill and earning some Silver left everyone quite pleased.
Inside the Empress Dowager’s phoenix carriage.
"Jiujiu, quickly let the Royal Grandmother see if you’re injured," the Empress Dowager said with concern, grasping Yang Mengchen’s hand.
When she saw that arrow flying towards Jiujiu, her soul nearly left her body in fright. Had it not been for retaining a shred of sanity, she and the Empress would have rushed over on the spot.
Yang Mengchen shook her head and smiled, "Royal Grandmother, rest assured, I am unharmed."
"You must always protect yourself well and never let yourself come to any harm; the Royal Grandmother and your mother cannot endure such a shock again."
"I will." freёwebnovel-com
"If it weren’t for Jiujiu just now, the Emperor would have... Our Jiujiu truly is a heroine amongst women!" The Empress Dowager was still shaking from the residual fear.
"Granddaughter-in-law merely reacted on instinct, not worthy of being called a heroine," Yang Mengchen gently reassured her, "Being filial and protecting the Royal Grandmother, the Emperor, and the Empress is my duty as a princess. Please persuade the Emperor to not bring this up again."
The Empress Dowager was visibly moved and embraced Yang Mengchen, feeling as if she was drinking from a sweet spring. Jiujiu had promised to protect her family with her life, and she really meant it, putting all her heart into the safety of her family, including the Empress Dowager, the Emperor, and the Empress.
Sensing the Empress Dowager’s emotional turmoil, Yang Mengchen quietly nestled in her embrace.
In her past life, despite being less favored by her relatives, she was fortunate to have met Grandma Zhang, Grandpa Liang, and Teacher Sun. She held steadfastly to their teachings that no matter the adversity faced or the unfair treatment received, she must always maintain a kind and sincere heart. It was precisely because she stayed true to her heart that she later encountered so many kind-hearted people who cared for, taught, and supported her, leading to her considerable achievements.
In this life, she had family who loved and protected her and friends who treated her sincerely. Even though the Emperor initially had many grievances against her, he gradually came to dote on her as a daughter. These family members and friends were of utmost value to her; of course, she would do everything to protect them. Whoever dared to harm her family and friends would pay a thousandfold in painful retribution.
Sister Chu and Sister Jin quietly wiped the tears from the corners of their eyes, touched by the princess’s filial piety and benevolence. Sister Jin felt even prouder.
As the procession entered The Capital, Yang Mengchen and Sister Jin exited the phoenix carriage, returning to their own behind it, and went straight to the Yang family home with Hai Tang and the others.
Others, even if they saw, acted as if they hadn’t.
Of course, Long Xuanmo had already reported to the Emperor in advance that the Yang family had arrived in The Capital that morning, and the Emperor, understanding Yang Mengchen’s feelings, naturally granted permission.
As soon as Yang Mengchen stepped out of the carriage, she was greeted by the rushing figures of two white and one golden shadows, followed by Yang Zonghan’s three little friends. Yang Mengchen caught each of them with a smile.
After Yang Mengchen had caught up with them, Wu Xuehua and the other ladies gathered around her, inspecting her thoroughly.
News of what happened at the archery field had spread throughout the streets and alleys of The Capital, and the shock had nearly scared their souls away. Although Shi Qing had returned saying that Jiujiu (younger sister) was fine, they couldn’t be at ease until they had seen Jiujiu (younger sister) safe with their own eyes.
Yang Chaowen and the other men were equally concerned and worried.
Only after confirming Yang Mengchen was unscathed did everyone breathe a sigh of relief. Wu Xuehua and Shen Qiulan walked with Yang Mengchen to the parlor, flanked by the family members.
Old Master Yang and his wife were elderly and hadn’t come to The Capital for this occasion, planning instead to arrive after Yang Zongrun’s one-month celebration.
With Fu Chuyan nearing her time to give birth and Ling Youxuan in her confinement, such shocking news was kept from them to avoid unsettling them, lest Fu Chuyan suffer a miscarriage from worry or Ling Youxuan develop some lingering illness.
Listening to Shan Cha vividly recount the events, Yang Chengyou and his brothers who stayed behind to welcome the family and hadn’t gone to the competition were grave, their eyes flashing with a chilling, sharp light; Yang Chaowen’s three brothers looked somber, the ladies clutching their handkerchiefs so tightly they almost forgot to breathe.
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