I had previously found it strange why the Qi Emperor insisted on installing mechanisms in the side hall. Now it was clear that installing mechanisms was merely to deceive the secret department’s informants, with the real purpose being to conspire with the Tang Clan about how to deal with the An family under the cover of construction.
If not for Song Sitian, we might still be in the dark.
But I didn’t understand why, in trying to deal with the An family, he had to involve my own family. Was it to add more bargaining chips in negotiations with my mother-in-law?
After understanding all this, I became less worried. People fear the unknown most, and now the situation was crystal clear.
I listened carefully again as my younger sister repeated the conversation Song Sitian had heard. The more I listened, the more doubts arose. Although I don’t understand martial arts, I know An Jin’s skills were definitely not poor. Even if he wasn’t Tang Wei’s match, he shouldn’t have been killed so easily. Moreover, given An Jin’s caution, could he really be completely unaware of the Qi Emperor’s conspiracies?
No. He always acted thoughtfully and would never act rashly.
This time would be no different. But what if…? He had always wanted our children, always wanted us to live a stable life free from threats. What if he knew there was a trap but still chose to believe the Qi Emperor’s promise for that sliver of hope? If it were like that… I couldn’t bear to imagine further, my hands and feet going numb, my entire body turning to stone.
Since it’s the Eastern Palace, I suppose it won’t involve severe torture. This is an opportunity. In this imperial palace, apart from the Emperor, only the Eastern Palace can command these Crimson Guards and have the imperial physician treat the eunuch.
I have no idea where An Jin is or what condition he’s in, and I can’t help him. The only thing I can do is keep my promise, protect my family by all means.
I was taken to the Qifeng Hall. A table was set with fine wine and dishes, and the long-absent Eastern Palace Prince, wearing a luxurious robe, half-reclined on a unicorn couch and raised his wine cup to me.
