Emperor Rong Shengtian leaned forward slightly. He looked casual, but the sharp gleam in his eyes could not be hidden.
His gaze locked firmly on Yue Mingxuan, carrying a forceful power that made others feel as if they were born to kneel before him.
Even the bolder ones started to tremble.
When his eyes swept over Yue Mingxuan's face, covered in light makeup, a trace of doubt flashed in his mind.
People said that the Fifth Prince of Dongyue Kingdom was a bit foolish, but after witnessing his calm composure just now, that rumor seemed doubtful.
After a moment of silence, Rong Shengtian spoke again, his deep voice echoing in the hall.
"Very well. Since you have agreed to withdraw, then this engagement shall be annulled." He pressed his hand against the armrest and stood up, his tall frame straight and commanding. "I am tired. Everyone is dismissed. Yue Mingxuan, you may leave as well."
He said it lazily, as though he had just woken up and walked away with unhurried steps.
Everyone lowered their heads to bow, but confusion was clear in their eyes.
Even Rong Tieshan, who had thought he understood his father's intentions, was left puzzled at the end. His gaze unconsciously followed the figure of the person he was no longer responsible for.
That slender elegant figure stepped over the high threshold and for a brief moment, the faint glimpse of long smooth legs appeared beneath the robe. Instead of seeming indecent, the sight carried a strange sense of grace and purity, leaving behind a feeling of effortless beauty.
When Yue Mingxuan's figure finally disappeared, Rong Tieshan felt something inside him hollow out, as if a small part of his heart had been taken away. It left him feeling strangely empty.
From this moment on, he no longer had to take responsibility for Yue Mingxuan.
Wasn't that exactly what he had wanted?
Yet his heart grew restless and he laughed bitterly at himself.
Why am I even thinking about this? he—was a traitor. There's nothing worth remembering.
Meanwhile, in the quiet chamber, Yue Mingxuan sat down wearily. Just as he began to relax, a soft knock came at the door.
"Come in," he said tiredly while rubbing his sore legs. A young maid entered while preparing a warm bath before bowing respectfully. "Your Highness, allow me to serve you as you bathe and change."
This maid name is Sui He, she had come with Yue Mingxuan from Dongyue Kingdom.
Ever since the Beirong court had assigned Su Jin to serve him, Sui He had not been allowed to attend him closely.
Earlier, Yue Mingxuan had casually asked where he could get some water and she had thoughtfully prepared the bath.
Having someone serve him so closely felt unfamiliar, but today he was too tired to refuse. Letting someone help wash him was, in truth, a small comfort.
As his weary body sank into the warm water, soft steam filled the air. He leaned back against the edge of the tub ehile closing his eyes, and his thoughts slowly settled.
The events of the day had drained him completely. In his mind, he recalled what had happened the previous evening.