Zhao, the imperial physician, had served in the palace for many years and was well aware of the gossip and secrets that circulated among the nobility. However, when it came to matters involving the esteemed, he could only pretend to be unaware and uninterested.
After holding in so much for so long, one inevitably goes a little mad and needs an outlet. Thus, he turned his gaze beyond the palace walls, keeping up with all the strange tales that had emerged over the years. He had heard of the tragic love story between Xiao Yu and Song Feiwan, and was secretly astonished. Now that Xiao Yu had returned, he thought to himself: even if they had forgotten their past, surely there would still be some connection between lovers?
Just moments ago, Xiao Yu had rejected his treatment; perhaps he was hoping for Song Feiwan to intervene instead. Asking a few questions wouldn’t be too troublesome—he could consider it a favor to humanity. However, given that Song Feiwan was still quite young, she surely couldn't be as formidable as the teacher he wished to have!
Upon hearing his words, Song Feiwan instinctively glanced at Xiao Yu and said, "Then shall I give it a try?"
The villain was undoubtedly dangerous; she wanted to keep her distance as much as possible. Yet from another perspective, treating him could also be an opportunity. While she couldn't cure his illness completely, she could certainly make it worse with a few needles—like preventing him from regaining his memory.
The possibility sent a thrill through her heart. Others also looked at Xiao Yu, waiting for his decision.
To everyone's surprise, Xiao Yu calmly declined. "You’ve caught a chill; you should take care of your health and not overexert yourself."
Song Feiwan thought to herself: She had been pretending in the carriage! What a way to shoot herself in the foot! But was Xiao Yu really so sharp and perceptive that he couldn’t see through her act? His refusal was undoubtedly not out of concern for her but rather a means of guarding against her!
His words sounded so noble that even the Consort looked on in astonishment and mockery, pleased to see their relationship flourish.
Song Feiwan could only smile shyly in response, following his words, "Thank you for your understanding, Your Highness."
Beside them, Rong Jiayi raised his hand, about to ask a question, but Rong Guifei was quicker. "How could you catch a chill? Is it serious?"
Song Feiwan replied gently, "Mother, it's nothing serious; I'm already feeling much better."
Rong Guifei nodded. "If there's anywhere you're uncomfortable, you must tell me."
Her concern felt genuine, warming Song Feiwan's heart and deepening her guilt. "I understand. Thank you, Mother."
The Emperor timely interjected, "It's past noon; you must be hungry. I have ordered food to be brought."
Rong Huan and Rong Jiayi stood up and politely declined to dine in the palace.
The Emperor did not insist and said to Rong Guifei, "Then let’s eat at your place; it will be more comfortable and private."
Rong Guifei replied respectfully, "Alright, I will prepare it first."
She and Rong Huan left ahead, creating some distance from Xiao Yu and Song Feiwan.
As they descended the jade steps of the main hall, they entered an open square without any obstructions.
The guards stood watch at both ends, and the hidden guards had no place to conceal themselves—perfect for Rong Guifei and Rong Huan to converse.
At this moment, her face showed none of the fragility she had displayed before the Emperor; her slightly furrowed phoenix eyes gave her an air of sharp beauty.
Lowering her voice and speaking quickly, she said, "Brother, the Rong family must keep a low profile from now on."
Rong Huan replied, "I understand. The Rong family has enjoyed great favor these past few years; much of it is due to the Emperor feeling guilty over the death of His Highness and wanting to compensate us."
"Now that His Highness has returned safely, if the Rong family continues to hold power in court, it will surely provoke the Emperor's suspicion. A slight misstep could lead to our downfall."
"Father has completely withdrawn from political affairs; with Jiayi injured now, we can let him feign illness and avoid court for a while."
"The power of the Rong family will naturally wane a bit; don’t worry."
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