“Of course. What are you planning to do?”
He smiled. “Do nothing.”
“How can that be?” I grew anxious. “Even if I don’t act, Hongdi will definitely make a move! If you don’t prepare, you’ll surely be—”
“It’s fine,” he interrupted. “Rather than letting Hongdi act, let you do it. I won’t make any arrangements. You can do whatever you want.”
“You—” I understood, saying angrily, “Don’t try to use this self-destructive method to make me forgive you. If you lose all your power and end up trapped in the inner palace, do you understand?”
“I’m willing,” he said, almost excited. “As long as you don’t ignore me anymore, I’ll accept anything.”
I was speechless, glaring at him. The more I glared, the more encouraged he became, even moving closer. “A Yao, I’m willing.”
“I— I’m not talking to you anymore.” His subtle fragrance of pagoda tree flowers drifted into my nose, flustering me. I stood up and retreated several steps. “I’ve said what needed to be said. Do what you want.” With that, I fled.
I had delivered the message, but An Jin only seemed slightly happier, appearing more frequently but making no other moves. He seemed quite leisurely, while I was anxious. Could he really be planning to destroy his own capabilities? If he intended to do nothing, I would have to act before the three-month deadline, or when Hongdi made his move, nothing would be left.
Just as I was about to act, an earthquake suddenly broke out in the eastern part of the Southern Rui Kingdom, affecting Rao City, the fief of Yun Qiao. The earthquake caused significant losses and casualties.
After local officials reported the disaster situation and number of victims to the Ministry of Households, the Emperor immediately decided to dispatch imperial envoys with relief supplies and medical teams to investigate and provide aid.
I volunteered to go. As a member of the Southern Rui royal family and heir apparent, I felt compelled to help the people during this time of panic. Additionally, I was worried about Yun Qiao, who had gone to Rao City and had not sent any news since the earthquake.
Historically, earthquakes have been used as a pretext to harm royal reputation, so I believed my presence could quell any unfavorable rumors.
