The Emperor did not speak in a questioning tone; it felt more like casual conversation. "I and your Consort have already known about your amnesia. It must have been difficult for you."
Song Feiwan had been quietly observing the great villain since earlier. His every move was neither obsequious nor overly familiar, maintaining an air of impenetrability. This psychological resilience was far superior to her own. She still remembered how nervous she had been when she first met Consort Rong and the Emperor.
The Emperor's question was something she was also concerned about, but she had never found the opportunity to ask. She perked up her ears as Xiao Yu spoke slowly and steadily, "Thank you for your concern, Your Majesty. Three years ago, I experienced an earthquake and was fortunate enough to be rescued by herdsmen, which allowed me to survive."
Consort Rong's eyes widened in surprise as she exclaimed, "What a narrow escape! Thank heavens, may the heavens bless you."
Xiao Yu's dark eyes were deep and unfathomable as he allowed their misunderstanding to linger. The time he spent recuperating after his injury had indeed been perilous. However, once he had healed, it was his turn to put others in life-threatening situations.
Now, most of the power of Beirong was in his hands. Of course, he could not say this aloud.
"Because I do not remember what happened before, I settled in Beirong after my recovery. Everything that followed was recounted to me by my uncle and cousin." He glanced at Rong Huanzi and continued, "I gained the favor of the Zhuo family under King Jianan and took up a position within their clan. This trip to the capital is also to procure goods for them."
The Emperor paused for a moment before saying, "I have heard of this unstoppable King Jianan. Have you met him?"
Xiao Yu shook his head. "I have only reported matters outside the tent; I do not know what he looks like."
The Emperor replied, "Hmm, the intelligence I received also indicates that he is very cautious and low-key." A glimmer of light flashed in his eyes as his tone turned cooler. "So you have been at odds with Da Zhou for these three years?"
Xiao Yu stood up and bowed to the Emperor. "Your Majesty is perceptive. I have always been responsible for trivial matters within my clan. However, this time I made a mistake by coming to the capital and inadvertently harmed my cousin. Since I am a prince of Da Zhou, it is naturally impossible for me to return to Beirong. Everything I acquire from the capital will be fully submitted to the treasury. I hope Your Majesty will forgive me."
He then turned to Rong Jiayi with sincerity. "I also ask my cousin for forgiveness."
The Imperial Study fell into silence.
Without the Emperor's words, Xiao Yu did not dare to rise.
Consort Rong anxiously glanced at the several men present, her handkerchief twisted tightly in her hands.
It was Rong Huan who broke the silence, standing up to plead for the Emperor's mercy. "Your Majesty, the Crown Prince has fought bravely and stayed in the Northern Rong for three years due to his loss of memory and the life-saving grace he received. Now that he has finally returned to the capital and shows a willingness to repent, I earnestly request Your Majesty to grant him a chance to make amends."
Rong Jiayi stood up in support, unable to speak but exchanging a meaningful glance with Rong Huan.
Consort Rong looked at the Emperor with red-rimmed eyes. "Your Majesty, what Rong Xiang says makes sense. If you truly wish to punish someone, then let it be me; it is my failure as a mother."
Seeing the situation unfold, Song Feiwan realized she could not remain uninvolved. She rose and pleaded, "Your Highness is still recovering from his injuries; I implore Your Majesty to show leniency."
The Emperor sat on his dragon throne, letting out a deep sigh. "My beloved," he addressed Consort Rong, "you are the favored consort of the Fourth Prince, and am I not also his Emperor? If he has truly erred, then I too bear some responsibility."
"Your Majesty..." Consort Rong began.
"You all may rise," he commanded. "I am not unreasonable; if what the Fourth Prince has said is true, not only will I refrain from punishment, but I will also reward him."
Comment 0 Comment Count