The High Priest was helpless, standing frozen. A priest handed me a dagger, which I took and lightly pricked my right middle finger, drawing a drop of blood.
The cold, painful touch of the blade was nothing compared to the grief in my heart.
I looked at the blood drop for a moment. The High Priest was already urging, “Please drop your blood into the pool, Your Highness.”
I turned to look at her and smiled, “High Priest, you are indeed loyal and dutiful. Zhao Hua will remember your actions today.”
She visibly froze, fear and vigilance appearing in her eyes, then lowered her head and said nothing more.
I turned my hand, letting the blood drop fall into the holy water pool. The blood drop paused on the surface for a moment, then sank straight down, extremely clear.
Emperor Hong clapped and laughed satisfactorily, “Excellent! Truly a child of the Nanrui Jiang family!”
The High Priest and four priests bowed. “Congratulations, Your Highness, on passing the trial.”
I gazed at the holy water pool without any joy or relaxation. I had won this trial, but lost a sister, a friend, and the trust I had painstakingly rebuilt with the royal family.
According to convention, the second trial – the selection of the divine bird – would take place ten days later.
Unlike the trial at the holy water pool, the divine bird selection would be conducted in front of all the citizens of Zhu City to demonstrate the will of heaven.
Returning to the palace, I was physically and mentally exhausted. An Jin had prepared a table of hot dishes, but I shook my head, having no appetite.
An Jin dismissed the others, wrapping his right arm around my waist from behind, resting his chin on my shoulder. “A Yao has worked hard. You haven’t eaten well these three days. Aren’t you hungry?”
I placed my hand on his arm and sighed softly, “How could I have the mood to eat?”
“Don’t worry. Since you were able to pass this stage through your own adaptability, the next stage definitely won’t be a problem.” His arm tightened.
