Ministers Begging Me to Ascend the Throne Chapter 1131 - 145: Meeting Xiao Siyun (2)

Hearing this, Sun Doudou's heart grew heavy, her expression turning serious. "No wonder you sent everyone away."

Sun Kui felt a sense of relief seeing his disciple didn't press him with further questions.

"Stay vigilant."

"Yes, Master." The master and disciple took their posts at the Imperial Study's entrance, ensuring no one could get close.

Over at Yishou Palace, Princess Consort De received news that Zhao Yao had gone to the Imperial Study. The Emperor had dismissed all servants and even the guards outside the study, sparking a sense of foreboding within her.

How remarkably resilient Prince Han is!

After a while, Princess Consort De's senior palace maid entered, offered a respectful bow, and reported, "His Highness Prince Han has not yet departed the Imperial Study."

Princess Consort De's brow furrowed upon hearing this. "What time is it now?"

Manqing replied, "It's nearly the hour of You."

"The hour of You, and he still hasn't emerged?" Princess Consort De's frown deepened.

"No, it is said Prince Han has remained within the Imperial Study the entire time."

Princess Consort De's mood darkened, her face growing grim.

Manqing anxiously inquired, "Your Highness, could Prince Han have informed the Emperor about His Highness...?"

With a dark expression, Princess Consort De coldly spat, "Useless scum, unable to even eliminate one person."

Manqing nervously asked, "Your Highness, what actions should we take now?"

After a brief moment of thought, Princess Consort De declared, "There is no alternative; I must personally handle this matter."

A profound dread washed over Manqing at these words.

Princess Consort De beckoned Manqing closer. The maid approached and leaned in to hear the instructions.

Though terrified after receiving Princess Consort De's directives, Manqing maintained a composed facade.

"I shall depart immediately to make the necessary arrangements."

Within the Imperial Study, the Emperor and Zhao Yao's discussion continued until the evening shadows lengthened.

Noticing the late hour, Sun Kui entered the Imperial Study with evident hesitation, intending to remind the Emperor about dinner, thereby interrupting the Emperor and Zhao Yao's conversation.

Zhao Yao was subsequently invited by the Emperor to remain for the meal. The Emperor then instructed Sun Kui to summon Lady Liang.

The three gathered in the dining hall, partaking in dinner while engaging in light conversation.

The Emperor's invitation to Prince Han and the summons for Lady Liang created significant ripples throughout both the harem and the court.

This marked the first time the Emperor had extended such an invitation to Prince Han and Lady Liang, leaving everyone astonished and speculating about what valuable offerings Prince Han might have brought back for the Emperor.

Following the meal, Zhao Yao did not stay at the palace. As an adult, it was against the rules for him to remain overnight.

The Emperor thoughtfully arranged for Xiao Siyun to escort Zhao Yao out of the palace.

Zhao Yao walked ahead, with Xiao Siyun following a short distance behind. She cast discreet glances at his retreating back, her lovely face tinged with a slight blush.

"I know who you are." Zhao Yao suddenly halted his steps, turning to look back at Xiao Siyun.

Xiao Siyun appeared surprised. "You know me, Your Highness?"

"You are to be my future Princess."

Xiao Siyun was momentarily stunned by this declaration, her eyes wide as she stared at Zhao Yao.

Observing Xiao Siyun's wide-eyed, open-mouthed expression of bewilderment, Zhao Yao found her resembling a startled kitten, inexplicably endearing.

"Be at ease, I shall not defy the imperial edict, nor will I refuse this marriage."

With a jolt, Xiao Siyun's face instantly bloomed with a bright red hue.

"Your... Your Highness... I..." Flustered, she hastily lowered her gaze.

"I am aware that my father personally selected you and that you have undergone training all these years. It must have been difficult for you."

Xiao Siyun was taken aback that Zhao Yao possessed this knowledge, feeling a mixture of surprise and a sweet warmth.

"I... It is not difficult, Your Highness."

"It cannot have been easy. Your perseverance is truly admirable." Zhao Yao resumed walking, not intentionally slowing his pace ahead of Xiao Siyun. This was not an act of arrogance; rather, since the Emperor had not yet officially announced their betrothal, maintaining a side-by-side proximity might not be beneficial for Xiao Siyun's reputation.

A sweet smile graced Xiao Siyun's lips as she softly responded, "It truly isn't difficult, Your Highness. I am very happy." She genuinely cherished the opportunity to acquire diverse knowledge. Without being chosen, she would never have had such avenues for learning open to her.

Seeing her smile, Zhao Yao expressed mild astonishment. "What brings you such happiness?"

"I am able to learn to read and write, and acquire other skills—things I never dared to dream of before."

Zhao Yao grasped Xiao Siyun's implication, acknowledging its truth. Considering her family's status, acquiring basic literacy would be fortunate; seeking entry into the palace was an impossible dream.

"As long as you find happiness."

Xiao Siyun clenched her fists tightly, inhaled deeply, and met Zhao Yao's gaze. "Your Highness, I feel incredibly fortunate. Thank you."

"There's no need for thanks. Being selected by my father and conquering every trial are accomplishments solely due to your own merit," Zhao Yao offered a smile. "You are truly outstanding!"

Caught off guard by the sudden praise, Xiao Siyun was once again startled.

"Your Highness..."

"I am also aware that they've briefed you on my preferences and instructed you to tailor your actions around me, correct?"

Xiao Siyun nodded obediently.

"What I wish to convey is that your life should not revolve solely around me; you must live for yourself," Zhao Yao stated with sincerity. "I have no desire for my future Princess Consort to be a mere puppet."

Xiao Siyun, possessing keen intelligence, understood Zhao Yao's underlying message and looked at him with an expression of disbelief.

"That is all I wished to express." Zhao Yao imparted a gentle smile to Xiao Siyun. "Very well, you may leave me here. It is time for you to depart."

"Your Highness, I..."

"Go back now, and do not catch a chill."

"Safe travels, Your Highness."

Xiao Siyun did not depart immediately. Instead, she remained standing, observing Zhao Yao as he walked away.

Upon reaching the palace gates, Zhao Yao spotted the carriage from Prince Wei's Mansion, a sight that did not provoke surprise. He then hurried towards the carriage.

Yu Hai performed a respectful salute. "Greetings, Your Highness."

Zhao Yao lightly patted Yu Hai's shoulder before boarding the carriage. Pulling back the curtain, he saw Prince Wei seated within, a sight that held no element of surprise for him.

"Eighth Brother, my apologies for making you wait."

Prince Wei offered a faint smile. "I have not waited long. Let us head home."