Volume One, Chapter 18: Xiao Tingyu Returns to the Capital, Clashes with the Wedding Procession

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Why have we received no news here at all?

Thinking this, Xiao Qingyu quickly lowered her voice and instructed Ling Zhu beside her, “Ling Zhu, immediately send someone to Shu to investigate the situation. We must uncover the truth as soon as possible.”

Xiao Qingyu’s gaze sharpened as she stared coldly at Xiao Tingyu and said, “I will personally send people to check. If what you say is false, then Prince Yu, for deceiving the sovereign and disturbing the court, you will surely not escape punishment—you will lose your head!”

Xiao Tingyu, however, showed no concern, a faint smile lingering at the corner of his mouth as he replied,

“Princess, please rest assured and investigate at your leisure. Today I indeed delayed your joyous occasion. Once I report to His Majesty, I will personally go to the Regent's mansion to apologize to both the Regent and you, Princess.”

After speaking, he abruptly turned his head, waved his hand to the crowd behind him, and loudly commanded, “Make way for the Princess!”

Xiao Qingyu gave Ling Zhu a meaningful glance, signaling her to follow Xiao Tingyu.

Ling Zhu nodded silently and quietly trailed behind.

“It seems the Princess does not want Prince Yu to return to the capital,” Li Chaoyang observed.

Of course not; it had taken so much effort to drive him away before. Now that he returned silently, nothing good would come of it.

“After all, this is an imperial edict from the late emperor. Without his instruction, I dare not act on my own,” Xiao Qingyu said brazenly.

“Oh? The decree I received differs from what the Princess says,” Li Chaoyang’s eyes fixed on Xiao Qingyu’s, his expression grave.

Xiao Qingyu lowered her head, her almond-shaped eyes avoiding his predatory gaze.

“The decree in the prince’s hands might be forged.”

“The Princess is right; I also believe it is counterfeit,” Li Chaoyang’s lips moved slightly.

They must find the original edict. Xiao Qingyu’s face clouded with worry. Li Chaoyang was like a ticking time bomb; who knew when he might explode?

If Xiao Tingyu returned to the capital now and allied with these two, how could she stand against them? And with the old fox—the chancellor—lurking in the shadows, his true nature would surely be exposed.

From now on, Qing Shan’s days in the palace would be difficult.

First, they had to deal with Li Chaoyang.

Xiao Qingyu immediately put on a radiant smile, took his hand, and said, “Husband, let’s go.”

A faint smile flickered in Li Chaoyang’s eyes. He did not pull away but instead gripped her hand tighter.

“We’re not yet married. Isn’t it too soon for the Princess to call me that?”

...

Only days ago, wasn’t he calling her the same?

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Xiao Qingyu smiled gently and said, “What’s a little more time? Don’t you think so, my lord?” Then she looked at Li Chaoyang with tender eyes.

Li Chaoyang smiled back and replied, “Your ladyship is absolutely right,” though his eyes held no warmth.

He helped Xiao Qingyu onto the flower carriage, then personally lifted the red silk covering, turned slightly, and gestured for her to enter, saying, “Please.”

Xiao Qingyu did not hesitate. She picked up an exquisite round fan nearby and gracefully concealed the lower half of her face, leaving only her enchanting eyes visible.

Softly parting her crimson lips, she said coquettishly, “Thank you, my lord.”

Behind the thin veil of red silk, Li Chaoyang’s gaze locked onto Xiao Qingyu’s mesmerizing eyes, momentarily lost in them.

The music began, and the wedding procession continued.

—

Ling Zhu rushed back to the palace first and informed Xiao Qingshan of Xiao Tingyu’s return.

Xiao Qingshan, who had been reviewing memorials, paused, surprised that Xiao Tingyu would return at such a time.

“Prince Yu’s return may not bode well. His Majesty must be cautious.”

“It’s nothing. He wouldn’t dare make a bold move in the palace.”

“How is the situation on Princess Yingjie’s side?” Xiao Qingshan inquired.

“Everything is proceeding as usual.”

“Your Majesty, Prince Yu requests an audience,” a high-pitched eunuch voice called from outside.

Xiao Qingshan, seated at his desk, was slightly startled.

That was fast.

He took a deep breath, composed himself, and spoke calmly with authority, “Let him in.”

Soon, Xiao Tingyu strode into the hall with long, confident steps.

Tall and dignified, he knelt respectfully before the throne and said loudly, “Your humble servant pays homage, Your Majesty!”

Xiao Qingshan quickly rose, approached, and helped him up, smiling as he said, “Rise, minister. I already know of your success. Your reclaiming of the city is a feat of unparalleled merit. I will reward you handsomely.”

Then he turned to a nearby attendant and ordered, “Bring the pair of white jade rams immediately.”

The attendant bowed and soon returned with two pristine, lustrous white jade ram carvings.

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“Thank you, Your Majesty, for your generous gift!” Xiao Tingyu said gratefully.

Xiao Qingshan waved his hand, signaling no need for formalities. “Sit and speak freely.”

Once Xiao Tingyu was seated, the emperor smiled and said, “Today is truly a double celebration! First, Prince Yu’s glorious victory in reclaiming territory; second, the Princess’s marriage to the Regent. A joyous occasion indeed.”

Xiao Tingyu’s face showed a hint of regret as he replied apologetically, “Had I known this happy news earlier, I would have returned sooner and prepared a grand gift for the Princess to express my sentiments.”

Xiao Qingshan laughed heartily, reassuring him, “Your arrival now brings much joy to the wedding. Besides, your military achievements are the finest gift.”

“It grows late. I shall depart at once for the Regent’s mansion to apologize to the Princess. Your Majesty, will you accompany me?”

“I still have memorials to review. You may go ahead,” Xiao Qingshan declined.

“I will not disturb Your Majesty further.”

As Xiao Tingyu stepped out of the hall, his smile vanished instantly.

He glanced sideways at the jade piece held by a guard, a contemptuous smile curling his lips as he said coldly, “Once outside these palace gates, throw this worthless stone far away from me!”

“As you command!” the guard responded respectfully.

“Hmph, that useless prince! With his lowly status, he dares to dream of ascending to the supreme throne? Utter folly! Overestimating himself!”

“To the Regent’s mansion! I want to have a proper meeting with that Princess.”

Only a few steps from the hall, a woman dressed in resplendent attire approached gracefully, carrying an exquisite food box.

Xiao Tingyu did not recognize her immediately. The guard beside him whispered, “Your Highness, this is Consort Liu.”

Upon hearing this, Xiao Tingyu understood the reason for this chance encounter.

He bowed politely to Consort Liu.

“Prince Yu, no need for formalities,” Liu Ran said calmly, her expression serene and unreadable.

She continued, “My father has long awaited your return. Hearing you came back today, he sent me to inform you that he will personally visit the Regent’s mansion tonight.”

Xiao Tingyu was momentarily stunned, then laughed heartily, “Ha ha ha... The Chancellor’s presence is always welcome!”