"I wish to break this precedent, that the capable shall govern the realm, regardless of gender," His pronouncements, delivered with a charming smile that could captivate the most stoic, resonated with the power of mountains and rivers, stunning everyone in the hall.
The envoys from the five kingdoms paled in shock. With two formidable powers united, what could prevent the unification of the realm? Was the world truly about to descend into chaos? Moreover, the Empress had previously conceptualized a fearsome military weapon. If that weapon were real, it was said that with a mere flick of the wrist, mountains and rivers could be shattered.
A chill ran through everyone. They had no desire to remain in Xianyue any longer. Yet, they were unable to leave. Instead, they were compelled to accompany Xianyue in the trial of Prince Ji. It was a case of trying to steal a chicken only to lose the rice.
This woman was too astute. Initially, Xianyue's interrogation of Prince Ji was an opportunity to find fault, but now with the five kingdoms presiding, the Empress of Danfeng, harboring her grievances, would direct her anger towards all six kingdoms, not just Danfeng. How brilliant, how brilliant.
Outside the hall, the rain had ceased, and the wind began to blow.
The flowers and grass were fresh, and the sky was a expanse of pure white, washed clean of all its impurities. Only pristine clarity remained. The last rays of the setting sun cast a glow over the entire imperial palace, its painted beams and carved eaves a sight of unparalleled beauty.
Changsun Zhu stood before the grand hall. Glancing back at the pair within, who appeared so perfectly matched, his heart gave a painful twinge. He could only watch as this woman was ensnared by Mu Rong Liu Zun.
The envoys from the five kingdoms turned their carriages and proceeded towards the Liuli Palace.
From the very rear, Mu Qingyao's gaze, dark and chilling, pierced Mu Rong Liu Zun with unnerving intensity. The corner of her lips curled, revealing a shade of darkness.
"Your Majesty's actions are pushing me into the eye of the storm."
Mu Rong Liu Zun, his tall and imposing figure striding forward, his pupils as dark as ink reflecting the brilliance of the setting sun, a gentle, river-like smile gracing his lips, exuded an otherworldly charm. His resonant voice echoed:
"Does Yao'er not trust me? I will protect you and ensure no one harms you."
His long fingers, carrying a searing warmth, reached out, taking Mu Qingyao's hand and lifting it, his demeanor earnest and devoted.
While he wished for her to stand shoulder to shoulder with him in battle, he yearned even more for her unwavering companionship.
Ever since he had led her onto the officials' platform and through the Qianqing Gate, he had genuinely wished to hold her hand and traverse life together. It seemed that in this life, having her was enough.
"Since ancient times, the imperial court has known no true affection."
Mu Qingyao's smile was cool and indifferent as she withdrew her hand. Though a warmth bloomed in her heart, she had at least seen his sincerity. As for what the future held, who could say? Had she not herself always wished to leave the palace?
"Perhaps there are exceptions. Shall we join forces to conquer the realm, becoming the most mutually respected and loving imperial couple in history, forever leaving our noble names etched in time?"
Mu Qingyao turned and walked away, disregarding his words. She had no pursuit of fame or fortune, nor did she wish to become an imperial couple celebrated in history alongside him.
There are no absolutes in life. Did he not harbor his own selfish desires? If she were an ordinary woman, if she were still that infatuated girl, would he still be so determined to have her?
Mu Rong Liu Zun watched Mu Qingyao's slender yet resolute figure depart the hall. A sharp glint flashed in his unfathomable eyes.
Yao'er, my feelings are sincere. Only you in this world are worthy of ascending to the pinnacle with me.
Outside the hall, Mo Chou's voice called out, "Your Highness, shall we return to Liuli Palace?"
"Yes," the voice responded, and the sound of footsteps gradually faded.
A Jiu entered, observing the Emperor gazing thoughtfully at the black coffin positioned in the center of the hall. His features were refined, resembling a piece of smooth, warm jade, radiating a subtle, dazzling brilliance, contained and serene.
"Your Majesty, it is time to return to Liuli Palace. Everyone else has already gone."
"Very well," his tall frame turned, and he walked out. Two figures, one yellow and one blue, equally outstanding and dazzling, though the one in front was tall and heroic, the one behind, no matter how one looked at it, seemed somewhat delicate.
Liuli Palace was now imbued with an atmosphere of solemnity and majesty. The Emperor and the Empress sat at the head, their expressions grave and cold. The envoys from the five kingdoms were seated on either side, along with the Minister of Justice and the Left and Right Prime Ministers of Xianyue.
Even Prince Beijin had arrived. Prince Beijin's complexion was not only pale but also lifeless. In the wake of such an incident, he could not escape responsibility. Perhaps this was precisely the Emperor's intention.
Princess Ji Xue knelt in the center of the hall, her eyes shifting unpredictably, her expression dark and unpleasant as she glared fiercely at Mu Qingyao seated above.
Everything had been seamless, but this woman had ruined her grand scheme.
However, she should not assume that her confession meant anything. She, Ji Xue, was an envoy. They had no right to kill her; only her own Empress possessed the authority to sentence her to death.
Recalling her Empress's favoritism towards her imperial sister, a chilling coldness spread through Ji Xue's eyes. She feared she could not escape death, but dying in her own country was better than dying abroad.
Kneeling below Ji Xue was also the maidservant Xiao Qiao, belonging to the Imperial Crown Princess.
Outside the hall doors, numerous guards stood at attention, led by the Commander of the Guards, Hua Lige.
The Emperor's interrogation of the Danfeng Prince in Liuli Palace was a matter of utmost importance, not solely concerning Prince Nan'an. Therefore, their responsibility was immense, and no one was permitted to disrupt the imperial trial.
"Ji Xue, you have personally admitted to killing the Imperial Crown Princess of Danfeng. Do you have anything further to say?"
Mu Rong Liu Zun's magnetic, husky voice rang out, carrying a cold, murderous intent, akin to a cruel official from hell.
In the hall, Ji Xue's pupils flashed. A cold sneer played on her lips as she spoke with composure:
"It was I, this Prince, who killed the Imperial Crown Princess. It was unintentional. The Royal Sister was in a bad mood that day, and I kindly tried to comfort her. Who knew she would vent her anger upon me, cursing my incompetence? In my rage, I struck her, sending her flying. Who knew she would hit the corner of a chair and die."
Ji Xue recounted the events. In truth, she deeply resented her Royal Sister and had always wanted to kill her, but that night she genuinely had no intention of killing her. However, in a moment of carelessness, she had accidentally caused her death. It was all fate.
Silence descended upon the hall. The expressions of those present varied; some breathed a sigh of relief, others disdained Ji Xue's actions, more were vexed, and some remained impassive throughout.
Mu Rong Liu Zun and Mu Qingyao, though outwardly unfazed, felt a sense of relief in their hearts.
Since Ji Xue confessed to killing her Royal Sister, Prince Nan'an was now in the clear. However, there was a witness who saw Prince Nan'an emerging from the Imperial Crown Princess's chambers. What was the meaning of that? Could it be that there was someone else behind Prince Ji? Who was it?
Xian Emperor's face, handsome as jade, was clouded with a stern look. His deep, mysterious dark eyes swept across the envoys from the five kingdoms, wondering who among them was most likely the accomplice behind Ji Xue.
"Ji Xue, then who was it that emerged from the Imperial Crown Princess's chambers?"
"Prince Nan'an," Ji Xue's lips curved into a cold smile.
Upon hearing this, the words fell like stones into a vast ocean, instantly creating a tempest in the hall. How could Prince Nan'an be implicated now? Why would Prince Nan'an be colluding with Ji Xue? What were his intentions?
The envoys of the five kingdoms, without exception, became excited.
Because the Xian Emperor was present, they suppressed their outward reactions, but the light shining from their eyes revealed everyone's inner thoughts.
Even Changsun Zhu, who had been impassive all along, was no exception. His exceptionally beautiful features curved into a slight smile, his sword-like eyebrows arched, his thin lips curled wickedly, and his eyes flickered uncertainly.