Chapter 52: Prince Qi, It's Time to Defend a Man's Dignity (1)
Inside Prince Qi's residence, within the princess consort's boudoir.
Han Jinxiu was in the midst of a conversation with a mysterious shadowy figure.
Though wrapped in a thick fur cloak, her fiery curves were still impossible to conceal.
Especially beneath the martial attire, her beautifully contoured legs were clearly outlined.
The only flaw in this scene was that the shadow's face remained indistinct, shrouded in blurriness.
Their discussion was reaching its conclusion.
"Rest assured, I will personally deliver this Life Creation Pill. May our cooperation be successful!"
A satisfied smile adorned Han Jinxiu's face as she raised her wine cup in a toast to the shadow.
The floating shadow slowly dissipated, and the princess consort drained her cup in one gulp.
As the doors reopened, Han Jinxiu stepped out.
Outside the side hall, a graceful, full-figured silhouette had been waiting for quite some time.
"Princess Consort, what are Sister Donghuang's next instructions?"
Yun Rong quickly approached and inquired.
"Nothing much, just continue lying low and waiting for the right opportunity."
Han Jinxiu concealed everything from before, responding in a casual tone.
"Is that so…"
Yun Rong hesitated.
She opened her mouth slightly, but in the end, held back her doubts.
Although there was no strict hierarchy between them, the balance of power was clear.
Han Jinxiu exuded the natural presence of a superior, her tone firm and unquestionable.
Meanwhile, Yun Rong's softer nature made her seem somewhat restrained.
"The current Empress unified ten nations with Southland as her foundation, creating the present order."
"She is a formidable opponent—there aren't many who could achieve such a feat."
Han Jinxiu lightly changed the subject.
"Indeed… and her talents aren't limited to warfare alone."
"Facing such an opponent is not good news for us."
A trace of melancholy appeared in Yun Rong's eyes.
She had roamed the capital multiple times recently, witnessing its prosperity and stability.
Her resentment towards the Empress had significantly faded.
"However, within Southland, there exists a force capable of restraining the Empress—you should know who I mean."
"The stabilizing pillar who has served three generations of Southland rulers—he certainly possesses that power."
Han Jinxiu continued without noticing the change in Yun Rong's expression.
"I know, but… he has been missing for years. Even if found, it wouldn't make much difference."
"I doubt such a great figure would aid us—we simply lack the leverage."
Yun Rong sighed in response.
Even if he had the capability, what reason would he have to help them?
Han Jinxiu remained silent, instead giving Yun Rong a meaningful look.
With you here, do we still need to worry about convincing him?
Clearly, she was oblivious to her true identity—otherwise, she wouldn't be speaking like this…
This might be a perfect opportunity to forge a closer bond, one that could be leveraged in the future.
The princess consort took a step forward and warmly grasped Yun Rong's hand.
The gentle woman was momentarily startled, uncertain about Han Jinxiu's sudden gesture.
"Yun Rong, since you arrived, we have hardly spoken. Our relationship feels too distant."
"But since we share a common goal, we shouldn't remain so estranged."
"From now on, let's address each other as sisters and face any future dangers together."
Han Jinxiu's voice softened, carrying warmth instead of arrogance.
"Mm… Sister Jinxiu."
After a few seconds of confusion, Yun Rong responded in a small voice.
Given her personality, she could hardly refuse such kindness.
In truth, their ages were uncertain, but in terms of presence, it was clear who the elder sister was.
Had Yun Rong been the older one, she likely would've been completely dominated by her "younger sister."
"Yun Rong, from now on, I shall treat you as my dear sister. If you ever need help, don't hesitate to ask."
Han Jinxiu nodded in satisfaction.
Her mind was meticulous—she would never place all her bets on a single person.
Only through multiple arrangements could she ensure complete control over any unpredictable situations.
Especially when it came to the irreverent Su Qing—she would never give him the slightest opportunity!
The Heavenly Dao Sect, the rebels, the royal family—all were pieces to be used.
As long as she could achieve her goal, what harm was there in betting on multiple sides?
She wanted that little scoundrel to regret, to be utterly crushed before her!
Han Jinxiu's heart swelled with anticipation, eager to see how Su Qing would cope once the Empress was removed from his side.
Would he still dare act so arrogantly before her then?
Just imagining it made her heart race with excitement.
Few things had thrilled her this much in years.
—
In the courtyard.
This was the rear garden of the prince's residence, usually off-limits to all but the women of the household.
Well, typically, there was one exception—Prince Qi himself.
Instead of drinking with officials and nobles, Prince Qi lounged in a pavilion, appearing relaxed.
It seemed as if he was merely basking in the sun, but a closer look would reveal his true intent—he was secretly spying.
The target, of course, was the princess consort's chambers.
Banned from entering by his own wife, he could only linger outside and wait.
Yes, his actions were rather turtle-like, but he still took great pride in them.
After all, this was his harem.
Even if he couldn't enter, it still belonged to him!
As a man, he enjoyed the envious gazes of others.
Just as he basked in his own self-satisfaction, a figure stepped into his restricted zone!
Prince Qi's expression darkened as he spotted a young man walking into the rear courtyard.
This brat had entered without announcement—was he looking for death?
A sharp glint of authority flared in his eyes as he fixed his gaze upon the intruder.
Naturally, Su Qing noticed the intense scrutiny.
He glanced in that direction before casually looking away, utterly indifferent.
He didn't even bother greeting the prince, walking straight past the pavilion.
Why waste time acknowledging a sunbathing turtle?
With practiced familiarity, Su Qing made his way direc tly into the princess consort's chamber.
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