|•Chapter Two•|
The 2nd Prince strode through the dimly lit corridors of the prison
As he passed by the cells, his eyes briefly met those of a young woman—Ailin. Their gazes locked for a moment, but neither recognized the other, and the Prince continued on his way.
He arrived at the Chancellor’s cell, where the Minister of Justice and the Crown Prince were already present.
The cell was small and austere, with stone walls and a single barred window that let in a sliver of light.
The Chancellor’s body lay on the floor, looking eerily peaceful, as if he had simply fallen asleep.
Jing Jiuchu
(The Minister of Justice looked up as the 2nd Prince entered) “Your Highness,” (he said, bowing) “We have determined that the Chancellor was killed through poisoning, but we are yet to find how he got poisoned."
Crown Prince
"Indeed. His food was always tested and found to be clean. Yet, he was poisoned.”
Crown Prince
"People are getting bold"
A meticulous man with a keen eye for detail stepped forward
The Coroner
"Your Highnesses" (bows) "From the results of my autopsy, he died from poisoning"
The Coroner
“I believe the poison was not ingested through his food. Instead, it appears he breathed in a substance that, when combined with an ingredient in his food, created a lethal toxin.”
2nd Prince Liuxian
“What ingredient was in his food, and what substance did he breathe in? How does the combination create poison?”
The Coroner
(Clearing his throat) “The ingredient in his food was a common herb known as Nightshade Blossom. On its own, it is harmless and even used in small amounts for medicinal purposes. However, when combined with a specific gas, it becomes highly toxic.”
2nd Prince Liuxian
“What gas are we talking about?”
The Coroner
(The coroner pointed to a small, inconspicuous vent near the ceiling) “It should be the Xuan Grass. It is often used in incense because of its pleasant smell. However, when its smoke is inhaled and combined with Nightshade Blossom, it creates a deadly poison.”
Crown Prince
“The chancellor must have breathed in the Xuan Grass smoke while eating, unknowingly sealing his fate. The smoke would have been introduced through this vent.”
Liang
"Yes, Your Highness"
Crown Prince
“Find out who had access to this cell and the means to introduce such a substance.”
Liang
"Yes." (he goes away as the 2nd Prince glanced at the Crown Prince)
2nd Prince Liuxian
(Stepping closer to his brother lowering his voice) “Brother, do you think this could be the work of someone within our own ranks? Someone with a personal vendetta?”
Crown Prince
(The Crown Prince met his gaze, his eyes cold and calculating) “It’s possible. We must be vigilant. Trust no one.”
2nd Prince Liuxian
"Agreed" (Nodding) "I will take my leave first, Your Highness please excuse me" (bows)
Crown Prince just gives a short nod
The eldest princess sat gracefully, her eyes scanning a scroll with a look of intense concentration.
The 2nd princess stormed into the pavilion, her face flushed with anger
2nd Princess Xiyue
“Sister!” (she called out, her voice sharp) “Why did you save that ugly Qiyun princess from execution earlier?”
The eldest princess didn’t look up immediately. She continued reading for a moment before finally raising her eyes to her younger sister.
Eldest Princess Renshu
"What are you rushing out and shouting for?"
Eldest Princess Renshu
"That’s not how a princess should behave.”
2nd Princess Xiyue
(The 2nd princess huffed, crossing her arms) “I want to know why you saved her. She’s from Qiyun! They’re our enemies, and she’s nothing but a prisoner slave now. Why should we show her any mercy?”
The eldest princess sighed, setting aside her scroll.
Eldest Princess Renshu
“There are things you need to understand.”
Reluctantly, the 2nd princess sat down, still fuming.
Eldest Princess Renshu
“Saving the Qiyun Princess was not an act of mercy, but a strategic decision. Executing her would have been simply a waste of a potential asset.”
2nd Princess Xiyue
(Eyes narrowed) “An asset? How?”
Eldest Princess Renshu
(Leans back) “Diplomacy, Sister. It’s all about power and influence, not just punishment.”
2nd Princess Xiyue
(Frowns, clearly struggling to grasp the concept) “But what if she betrays us?”
Eldest Princess Renshu
(Smiles faintly) “She won’t."
2nd Princess Xiyue
(Huffs, still unsatisfied) “You always have a plan, don’t you? But sometimes, I think you’re just too cold.”
Eldest Princess Renshu
(Smile widening) “And sometimes, I think you’re too impulsive. We balance each other out, don’t we?”
2nd Princess Xiyue
(Eyeroll) “Maybe. But I still don’t like it. She should be made to suffer.”
Eldest Princess Renshu
“I understand your feelings, but we must rise above them. Our actions set an example for others. Remember that.”
2nd Princess Xiyue
(Shruggs) “Fine. But don’t expect me to be nice to her.”
Eldest Princess Renshu
“I wouldn’t dream of it. Just try to be strategic.”
The 2nd Princess then stormed off, the eldest princess watched her go, a thoughtful expression on her face
The Jing Mansion was abuzz with activity as preparations for the coming-of-age ceremony reached a fever pitch. Servants hurried about, ensuring that every detail was perfect for the grand event that would celebrate the noble women of the kingdom.
In the midst of this flurry of activity, a royal messenger arrived at the gates, bearing an important decree from the king.
The head steward, Mr. Chen, greeted the messenger and escorted him to the main hall, where the Minister of Justice, Lord Jing, and his family were gathered. The atmosphere was tense with anticipation as the messenger unfurled the scroll and began to read aloud.
Eunuch Gong
"By the decree of His Majesty, the King,” (the messenger intoned) “it is hereby announced that Lady Xiuying, daughter of the esteemed Minister of Justice, Lord Jing, is to be betrothed to His Highness, the 2nd Prince, Qing Liuxian”
Gasps of surprise and murmurs of excitement rippled through the room. Lady Xiuying, a graceful young woman with a serene demeanor, kneeled beside her father, her expression a mix of pride and apprehension. She had known this day would come, but the reality of it was still overwhelming.
Eunuch Gong
"Miss Xiuying, accept the decree"
Jing Xiuying
(Raises her hands) "Yes, thank you, Your Majesty"
Eunuch Gong
(Nods and hands the scroll to Xiuying.)
Jing Jiuchu
“We are honored by His Majesty’s decree,” (he said, bowing deeply) “Lady Xiuying will fulfill her duty with grace and loyalty.”
Eunuch Gong
“The coming-of-age ceremony will be a grand occasion, and the betrothals will be formally announced.”
As the messenger departed, the family gathered around Xiuying, offering their congratulations and words of encouragement. Her mother, Madam Jing, took her hands and smiled widely
Madam Jing
"Xing'er, my dear. You will make a wonderful princess. The 2nd Prince is fortunate to have you. This is a great honor for our family.”
Her mother, a proud woman who reveled in her family’s status, could hardly contain her excitement. She felt as if she had wings, soaring with pride at the thought of her daughter becoming a princess.
Xiuying nodded, her mind racing with thoughts of the future.
Jing Xiuying
“Thank you, Mother,” (she said softly) “I will do my best to honor our family and serve the kingdom."
Her younger brother, Jing Hao, a spirited boy of fourteen, couldn’t contain his excitement either
Jing Yuwei
“Sister, this is amazing! The 2nd Prince is a hero! He’s known for his bravery in battle and his combat skills. We’ll be in-laws with a legend!”
Madam Jing
(Beaming with pride) “Indeed, Hao. Our family is truly blessed. This alliance will elevate our status even further.”
Jing Yuwei
(Nodding eagerly) “And maybe the 2nd Prince can teach me some of his combat moves! I’ve always wanted to learn from the best.”
Lord Jing placed a reassuring hand on Xiuying’s shoulder, and she could only smile
The 2nd Princess is enjoying a walk when she spots her brother, the 3rd Prince, walking by.
2nd Princess Xiyue
(Calling out) "Brother! Where are you off to in such a hurry?"
3rd Prince Haoran
(Turns around and smiles) "Just taking a stroll, sister. Care to join me?"
2nd Princess Xiyue
“Where to? Are you going to see that Qiyun princess again? What for!”
3rd Prince Haoran
(Laughing) “Oh, just thought I’d visit our esteemed guest, Princess Ailin. Don’t you want to have some fun with her?”
2nd Princess Xiyue
(Rolling her eyes) “Fun? With that dull creature? But I suppose it could be amusing.”
They walk together to the prison, the 2nd princess chattering away, giving her opinions on everything, though none of it is particularly insightful.
They arrive at Ailin’s cell. The 3rd Prince opens the door, and they step inside. Ailin is sitting calmly, her eyes closed, seemingly indifferent to their presence.
3rd Prince Haoran
(With a mocking bow) “Ah, Princess Ailin, how are you enjoying our hospitality?”
Ailin Qorin
(Opens her eyes slowly)
Ailin Qorin
(Look at them, strutting in like they own the place. That 3rd Prince, always so eager to visit. Is he unemployed or just bored?)
2nd Princess Xiyue
(Giggling) “Look at her, brother. She looks so pathetic.”
Ailin Qorin
“It’s a five-star experience, truly. The ambiance is just perfect. But tell me something, are you unemployed? You seem to have a lot of free time to visit me.”
3rd Prince Haoran
(Laughing) “Sharp tongue. I just find your company… intriguing.”
2nd Princess Xiyue
(Sneering) “Look at her, acting all high and mighty. Why aren’t you chained up like the others?”
Ailin Qorin
(Calmly) “I removed them.”
The 2nd Princess, irritated by Ailin’s calm demeanor, grabs a cup of water and drips it over Ailin’s head.
Ailin Qorin
(Irritated) "What do you want?”
The 2nd princess, annoyed by Ailin’s nonchalance, drips more water on her. Ailin, now angry, pushes her hand away, causing the cup to fall and break.
At that same time, a piece of paper falls from Ailin's clothes, and the 3rd Prince picks it up.
3rd Prince Haoran
"What is this?"
3rd Prince Haoran
(Eyes widening) "Well, what do we have here? A map? How delightful."
Ailin Qorin
"A map?" (Confused) "What’s so exciting about that?"
3rd Prince Haoran
(Grinning) "This isn’t just any map. It’s something very important. I didn’t expect to find such a treasure so easily."
3rd Prince Haoran
"It's your Qiyun treasure map, and you don't know it?"
Ailin Qorin
(Look at him, eyes gleaming with greed. This map must be something significant. It's time to use this to my advantage.) (Snatches back the paper)
Ailin Qorin
"Oh, I had forgotten about it. But..."
Ailin Qorin
(Eyes narrowing) "But you seem interested, maybe we can make a deal.”
3rd Prince Haoran
"A deal? What do you propose?”
Ailin Qorin
(Smiling slyly) "Get me out of here and give me some money, and it’s yours."
3rd Prince Haoran
"Do you think you are in any position to negotiate with me?"
Ailin Qorin
"What do you think?" (Playing with the paper in her hand)
Ailin Qorin
(From the moment he showed his excitement after seeing this map, his greed was exposed. There is no way he is escaping, I just need to lead him to it)
3rd Prince Haoran
(Smugly) "This map is a powerful tool for your Empire and could lead to something invaluable. You should know this more than anyone."
3rd Prince Haoran
(Surprised) “You’d trade something this valuable for your freedom and some money."
Ailin Qorin
"You have no air conditioning, no actual toilets, and let's not talk about that watery rice porridge."
3rd Prince Haoran
"Air condii...what?" (Confused)
2nd Princess Xiyue
(Protesting) “Brother, you can’t trust her! She’s just trying to trick you.”
Ailin Qorin
(Shrugging) "If you dont want it, then forget it. I’m sure someone else will."
Ailin Qorin
(Leaning back, her voice edged with sarcasm) “So, do we have a deal, or should I start looking for other buyers?”
3rd Prince Haoran
"Alright, deal. But I want the whole map.”
Ailin Qorin
(Smiling slyly) “You’ll get it. But not all at once.”
Ailin Qorin
(I'm not stupid. Snakes are everywhere, even in this era. Alright, let’s make this interesting. If this map is as important as he thinks, I need to ensure I have everything under control)
Ailin takes the map and folds it in half vertically, aligning the edges precisely.
She then folds it horizontally, creating a smaller, compact square.
Next, she folds the square diagonally, forming a triangle. This step is crucial as it starts to obscure the map’s details.
Ailin unfolds the triangle slightly and makes several small, folds along the edges, creating a pattern of creases that intersect at various points.
She folds the map back into a compact shape, ensuring that the creases create a complex, almost origami-like structure.
Ailin carefully tears the folded map along one of the diagonal creases, creating two irregularly shaped pieces. The tear is deliberate, ensuring that the pieces are not straightforward to reassemble.
She holds up the two pieces, showing the 3rd prince the folds and the tear.
Ailin Qorin
(Smirking) “Here’s the first part. Get me out, and you’ll get the rest when you give me the money.”
3rd Prince Haoran
(Impressed) “You’re a clever one, aren’t you?”
Ailin Qorin
"You have no idea"
3rd Prince Haoran
(Grinning) “We have a deal, Princess Ailin. But remember, if you try to deceive me, there will be consequences.”
Ailin Qorin
"Then you should also be worried"
Ailin Qorin
(Stands up) "If you are done with your visit, then let's go"
Ailin Qorin
(Oh gosh! I'm really living in the ancient era.)
Ailin Qorin
(It's still unbelievable)
3rd Prince Haoran
(Walking beside Zexi) “Welcome to my palace. You’ll be staying here for now.”
Ailin Qorin
(Sarcastically) “How generous of you.”
3rd Prince Haoran
(Gesturing to a room) “This will be your room. I’ve assigned two maids to assist you.”
Ailin Qorin
(Thinking) "Personal assistants, huh? Fancy."
3rd Prince Haoran
"Pardon"
Ailin Qorin
"Then thank you.....uhhhh"
3rd Prince Haoran
"3rd Prince Haoran"
Ailin Qorin
(Pauses)..."3rd...Prince...Haoran???"
Ailin Qorin
(Is using your name so complicated?)
The prince leaves and Ailin enters the room, looking around critically.
Ailin Qorin
(Not bad. Spacious, but a bit too ornate for my taste. I guess they like to show off their wealth.)
Wanwan
“Would you like to freshen up, Princess?"
Ailin Qorin
(Nodding) “Sure, why not.”
The maids prepare a bath for Ailin. She relaxes in the warm water, letting the tension of the past days melt away.
Ailin Qorin
(This is nice. I could get used to this.)
Ailin Qorin
(Is this the version of a bath tub in this era?)
After the bath, the maids bring her clothes.
Ailin Qorin
(Holding up the clothes) “Seriously? How much fabric do you need for one dress? Can I even move around in this? And what’s with the large armholes?”
Danzhu
“I'm sorry, Princess." (Bows) "The palace doesn't have garments from Qiyun, His highness just gave us these."
Ailin Qorin
"Aaah, you think I'm complaining because of that"
Ailin Qorin
(Sighing) “It's just that they look too heavy, and they are no pockets."
Ailin Qorin
"Is there anything lighter?"
Wanwan
"Yes, how about this one?"
The maids help her dress, and then bring her some food.
Ailin Qorin
“Not bad. At least the food is decent."
Ailin Qorin
"But it's lacking one thing"
Confused, the maids look at each other
Danzhu
"What would you like added Princess?"
Ailin Qorin
"A dipping sauce. Soy-ginger dipping sauce"
Ailin chuckles as the two maids look at each other confused again.
Prince Chuluun Qorin
(It's Been days, and still no sign of her. Ailin, where are you?)
The prince carefully polishes his sister’s favorite bow. The room is filled with her presence, from the delicate ornaments to the sturdy weapons she cherished
Prince Chuluun Qorin
(This bow… she loved it so much. Always practicing, always striving to be better. I have to find her.)
The door opens, and a guard enters, bowing respectfully.
Prince Chuluun Qorin
(Without turning around) “What is it?”
Mujin
"We have located the princess, Your Highness. She is in the Qing Empire.”
The prince stops polishing the bow and slowly turns around, his eyes narrowing.
Prince Chuluun Qorin
“In Qing? How did she end up there?”
Mujin
"She was captured during the conflict. We have confirmed her whereabouts and the circumstances of her capture.”
Prince Chuluun Qorin
(Angrily) “Captured? Those Qing dogs”
The prince’s anger is palpable, his fists clenching around the bow. He takes a deep breath, trying to control his rage.
Prince Chuluun Qorin
“Summon Awu.”
The guard bows and quickly exits the room. Moments later, Awu, a female warrior and loyal maid to Princess Ailin, enters and bows deeply.
Prince Chuluun Qorin
“Awu, I need you to go to the Qing Empire. Find my sister and bring her back."
Prince Chuluun Qorin
“Use any means necessary.”
Awu
“As you command, Your Highness.”
With a determined look, Awu departs, leaving the prince alone in the room. He looks at the bow one last time before leaving the room.
The room is dimly lit, with the soft glow of lanterns casting long shadows on the walls.The king’s eunuch stands nearby, pouring tea into a delicate porcelain cup.
Emperor
"The 2nd prince went to visit his mother again, didn’t he?”
Eunuch Gong
“Yes, Your Majesty. He hasn't come back yet”
The king takes a sip of his tea and turns to the crown prince who is kneeling before him.
Emperor
(Coldly) “Do you know why I am telling you to marry the chancellor’s daughter?”
Crown Prince
“To strengthen our alliance with the chancellor’s family, Your Majesty?”
Emperor
(Slamming his hand on the desk) “Wrong! You still do not understand.”
Emperor
“You think this is about alliances? This is about responsibility and consequences. Do you think your actions have no repercussions?”
The crown prince’s eyes widen in shock, but he quickly masks his expression
Crown Prince
“Your Majesty, I—”
Emperor
(Interrupting) “Silence! You will marry his daughter. She will be your princess consort, and you will treat her with the respect she deserves."
Emperor
"Do you understand?"
Crown Prince
(Bowing his head) “Yes, Your Majesty.”
The emperor dismisses him with a wave of his hand, and the crown prince rises, bowing deeply before leaving the study.
He stares into his tea, deep in thought, as the eunuch quietly refills his cup.
The night is calm, with a gentle breeze rustling the leaves. Ailin is sitting on the rooftop. She takes a deep breath, savoring the moment
Ailin Qorin
(This is nice. Almost makes me forget I’m a prisoner here. Almost.)
Like a seasoned undercover agent, Ailin jumps down from the rooftop, landing gracefully on the ground below. As she straightens up, she bumps into someone, startling both of them.
2nd Prince Liuxian
(Surprised) “Who are you?”
Ailin Qorin
(Equally startled) “Who are you?”
The 2nd prince’s guard reacts swiftly, drawing his sword and pressing it against Ailin's neck. She freezes, her eyes narrowing.
Ju Chen
“Answer the question”
Ailin’s mind races, and then it clicks.
Ailin Qorin
(Oh, it’s him. The guy from the prison.)
Ju Chen
“Your highness, she is the captured princess and the woman of the 3rd prince.”
Ailin Qorin
(No way brother, that sounds very disgusting)
2nd Prince Liuxian
(Steps closer)
2nd Prince Liuxian
"Chen, be kind to the 3rd prince’s woman.”
2nd Prince Liuxian
"Do you have a habit of sitting on people’s roofs?”
Ailin Qorin
“No one said I shouldn’t.”
2nd Prince Liuxian
(Chuckling) “Fair point. You are… different.”
Ailin Qorin
"Different? That’s one way to put it.”
2nd Prince Liuxian
"You speak your mind. It’s refreshing.”
Ailin Qorin
"Well, I’m not exactly from around here.”
2nd Prince Liuxian
"Qiyun people are carefree I guess"
Ailin Qorin
"Right, haha" (I don't even know where that is"
2nd Prince Liuxian
“So, what brings you to my rooftop tonight?”
Ailin Qorin
“Just chilling"
2nd Prince Liuxian
"Chi..lling?"
2nd Prince Liuxian
"What is that?"
Ailin Qorin
"Enjoying the night breeze."
2nd Prince Liuxian
"Indeed. But you should be careful. Not everyone is as understanding as I am.”
Ailin Qorin
“Noted. Now, if you’ll excuse me, this conversation is past my bedtime.”
2nd Prince Liuxian
"Of course. Sleep well, Princess.”
Ailin walks away, leaving the 2nd prince and his guard behind and they continue on their way
●Watch out for the next chapter●
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