Chapter 107 ROTNDOAHRF

FlamingoBees

Translating Chinese Historical Dramas for your enjoyment... and mine! :)

Rebirth of the Noble Daughter of a High Ranking Family

Chapter 107:

A heart-pounding turn of events.

Exiting the Furuai Courtyard, there seemed to be a pervasive coldness in the air, causing Ouyang Nuan's hands and feet to grow icy.

Madam Lin was completely defeated. This woman, who had been arrogant in the Ouyang household for so many years, had lost everything through Nuan's meticulous planning. She could only continue to live in this agonizing state. Given Madam Lin's character, it would be better for her to die than to suffer such torment. It was precisely because of this that Ouyang Nuan insisted on sparing her life, so that she could taste the pain of living hell.

With a faint lift of her eyes, Ouyang Nuan observed the twilight sky. The courtyard, now nourished by the rainwater, showed signs of new vitality despite its humble appearance.

She took a long breath, relieved that the weather was finally cooling down.

Returning to the Listening to Warmth Pavilion, Fang Mama was standing in the corridor holding a lantern, waiting. Upon seeing Ouyang Nuan's return, she silently welcomed her into the room, helped her take off her coat, folded them neatly, and then tucked her into bed. Afterwards, Fang Mama took a cup of hot tea from Hongyu and placed it nearby, then leaned over to look at Ouyang Nuan, speaking in a tone of reproach that Nuan had never heard before, "Miss, why didn't you tell me what you were really up to?"

"Mama, what do you mean?"

"Miss, you can't deceive this old servant. I've raised you since you were young. Who could understand you better than me? Over at the Furuai Courtyard, it was you who intervened, wasn't it? I saw the expression on your face just now, and I know exactly what you're thinking. I even overheard whispers from Changpu and Hongyu. If I had known you were going to do this, I would have stopped you."

"It was me. I arranged everything, including Ouyang Ke's marriage, and even the sudden stroke that befell Madam Lin," Ouyang Nuan said succinctly, curling up under the covers. She knew there were things she shouldn't let Fang Mama know because while she would support her in retaliation, she wouldn't approve of her using such malicious means for revenge. "Do you think I was wrong?" she asked.

© translations belonging to flamingobeestranslations.blogspot.com. If you read this somewhere else instead of flamingobeestranslations.blogspot.com then the translations has been posted WITHOUT permission of translator.

"Miss, this old servant doesn't know, but when you came back, you didn't seem as happy. This old servant still remembers when you were eight years old, you raised a rare little dog, and then Second Miss liked it and wanted to forcibly take it away. The dog accidentally bit her and was disposed of by Madam Lin without a second thought. You were so heartbroken when you cried back then! Since then, this old servant knew that you have a kind heart and couldn't do such cruel things! Now that you've become like this, it's all because of Madam Lin's coercion. But Miss, you shouldn't have done these things personally. You could have just instructed this old servant," Fang Mama said, while stuffing the neck pillow around Ouyang Nuan's neck more securely, "to avoid getting your hands dirty."

Although Fang Mama was getting older, her thoughts were very simple. Whenever something she loved was in danger, she would step forward without hesitation, unimpeded by conscience. She had nurtured Ouyang Nuan by hand, and even if she had to commit murder or arson, she would hand her the knife and the oil herself.

Just then, Changpu walked in and whispered a few words to Hongyu. Hongyu nodded and came to report, "Miss, Second Miss quietly sent gold to the doctor, wanting to terminate the pregnancy."

Ouyang Nuan tilted her head, thought for a moment, before she could speak, she heard Fang Mama coldly saying, "Tell the doctor to change everything to miscarriage prevention medicine. And instruct Xia Xue to keep an eye on Second Miss day and night, ensuring everything is secure."

Hongyu left in response, and Fang Mama sneered, "Don't want the child? It's not that easy!"

From her words, Ouyang Nuan felt silent support, and the warmth of the bedclothes made her whole body warm. Her heart was pounding, and the coldness from earlier seemed to dissipate in an instant. At least, there was someone supporting her, believing in her, willing to stand by her side no matter what she did, wasn't there?

Two months later,

Ouyang Ke, dressed in bright red bridal attire, kowtowed to bid farewell to the people of the Ouyang family. The veil covered her eyes, and the voluminous red robe concealed her slightly bulging abdomen, also shielding her from Madam Lin's twisted expression sitting in the hall.

Madam Lin struggled to make a sound, but couldn't manage to utter a complete sentence. Her unbalanced body kept tilting, and each time she was supported by the two maids beside her. However, every time they touched her, Madam Lin's eyes would reveal a look of fear as if she had seen a ghost.

There were very few guests who came to bid farewell, just a few relatives. However, everyone's expressions were somewhat subtle because this marriage was too unexpected, leaving them feeling unsettled. When Su Yulou was briefly imprisoned, everyone said he had no chance of redemption. But now, others said he was lucky because the daughter of the Ministry of Personnel's attendant had taken a fancy to him, sparing him from prison.

Through the layers of pearl curtains, Ouyang Nuan saw the matchmaker holding Ouyang Ke's hand. The ribbons and flowers on her body were all in red, thick and dazzling. Inadvertently, a smile appeared on Ouyang Nuan's lips.

The Su family understood very well that if they let Su Yulou, who had been pampered and spoiled, continue to stay in prison, he wouldn't live much longer. So when Ouyang Zhi made his request, they nodded without hesitation. After all, Su Yulou's future was completely ruined; no matter where he went, he would be labeled as a murder suspect.

They no longer had any expectations for his marriage. Instead of running around pleading for leniency, they simply agreed to Ouyang Zhi's request to let Su Yulou marry Ouyang Ke. Considering everything, their family didn't suffer any losses. After all, Ouyang Ke was the legitimate daughter of the attendant of the Ministry of Personnel.

Her willingness to marry into the infamous Su family was already great news. At least, that's what the Su family thought during the wedding procession.

As the groom, Su Yulou was very reluctant, but he still nodded because he didn't want to stay in the dirty and disgusting prison cell anymore. As long as he could avoid being imprisoned, he would accept anything, even if it meant marrying a sow. At least Ouyang Ke was a little better than a pig.

Su Yulou comforted himself with this thought as he dressed in a red robe and looked dignified during the wedding procession. However, deep down, he harbored suspicions. He had been framed and imprisoned, and then Ouyang Ke appeared as if by divine intervention. Was it all just a coincidence, or had Ouyang Ke intentionally orchestrated everything just to marry him?

Outside the mansion gates, copper coins and dried fruits were scattered from the baskets held by the maids, handed out to children or thrown into the air. However, such a scene seemed rather shabby amidst the grandeur of the capital, lacking any atmosphere of celebration. As Ouyang Ke ascended the bridal sedan chair, her brows furrowed involuntarily.

Today, her grandmother, Old Madam Li, claimed illness and didn't come out, while her father, Ouyang Zhi, remained expressionless throughout. This wedding was something she had pursued relentlessly, but now she didn't know what lay ahead, because Ouyang Zhi had already made it clear that once she was married off, she would no longer be considered a daughter of the Ouyang family, and her fate would be of no concern to him.

Gripping the fabric tightly in her hand, Ouyang Ke listened to the sounds of firecrackers ringing in her ears, feeling a sudden wave of fear as she wondered how she would conceal her four-month pregnancy from her in-laws.

Watching Ouyang Ke's figure recede, Madam Lin cried out hoarsely, "Ah, ah, ah!" But no one understood what she was saying. She desperately waved her one functioning arm, trying to stop Ouyang Ke from getting married. Qing Yue, who stood nearby, showed a look of disgust in her eyes and deliberately didn't offer any assistance. As Madam Lin couldn't maintain her balance, she fell abruptly from her chair, drawing astonished looks from the crowd. Ouyang Zhi snorted coldly and said, "Take her back! She's making a scene!"

The Su family welcomed Ouyang Ke to a separate courtyard, where the wedding ceremony would take place. Afterwards, they immediately set off to return to Jiangnan.

After the wedding procession had left, Ouyang Nuan returned to her Pavilion. Just as she exchanged a few words with Fang Mama, Hongyu entered and announced, "Miss, Princess Consort Lin has arrived."

Ouyang Nuan was taken aback and hurriedly said, "Why has Cousin suddenly come? Please invite her in quickly."

Lin Yuanxin's figure was still slender, but her complexion was good. As soon as Ouyang Nuan saw her, she moved to assist her, jesting, "Nuan'er is now a princess. I can't afford such grand gestures." She chuckled and added, "This isn't the Prince's Mansion. Let's dispense with the formalities."

Ouyang Nuan quickly invited her to sit down, saying with a smile, "Why did Cousin suddenly come over? If there's anything, you could have just sent word, and I would have gone to the Prince's Mansion."

Lin Yuanxin smiled gently, her demeanor graceful as she spoke softly, "Silly cousin. I can't usually come out. Being cooped up is suffocating. Today, I took advantage of Ouyang Ke's wedding and pretended to be ill to get out."

Ouyang Nuan personally served her tea and said with a smile, "It's good to get out and about when you're feeling down. If Cousin likes, I'll accompany you to the Ningguo Temple to offer incense another day."

At the mention of the Ningguo Temple, Lin Yuanxin suddenly remembered the rumors. She couldn't help but furrow her brows slightly, as if a veil of worry had enveloped her forehead. She spoke softly, "I came today because I also wanted to ask you about the matter of Prince Qin proposing marriage. Do you know anything about it?"

It had been quite some time, and yet someone was bringing it up face-to-face for the first time. Ouyang Nuan was momentarily stunned but then nodded slightly. "I've heard a little about it," she replied.

A sharp glint flashed in Lin Yuanxin's eyes. "He's truly audacious, daring to scheme even against you! Fortunately, the princess firmly refused, and His Majesty could do nothing about it. Otherwise, you would have truly fallen into a trap."

Upon hearing Lin Yuanxin likening the Prince's residence to a trap, Ouyang Nuan couldn't help but sigh inwardly. However, she maintained her usual smile on her face. "Cousin, there's no need to worry. Mother won't agree to it."

Lin Yuanxin nodded in agreement. "Not only the Grand Princess, but also Old Madam Ning, Elder Brother, and even the Prince's Mansion won't agree to this marriage."

Ouyang Nuan knew this would be the answer, yet she still felt an indescribable sense of unease engulfing her. Her marriage involved the expectations of too many people, and likewise, it was subject to their attention and constraints. The Grand Princess had someone inform her, but it was merely an announcement without asking for her consent. Even Ouyang Nuan understood very well that her opinion didn't matter. What mattered was that everyone knew Xiao Tianye and she were not a suitable match.

Amidst her hesitation, she felt as if she were standing at that crossroads again. Perhaps she harbored a lot of fondness and a little bit of affection for the Prince, who was sometimes rebellious and fierce, sometimes cute and mischievous. But that was far from enough to muster the courage to repeat the same mistakes.

"Nuan'er, what are you thinking? I'm talking to you, can you hear me?" Lin Yuanxin's voice brought her back to reality.

Ouyang Nuan was startled for a moment, then quickly regained her composure. She smiled and said, "I'm listening."

"I have one more important piece of news to tell you today. I'm pregnant." Lin Yuanxin's eyes sparkled with joy, her hand gently resting on her abdomen in a tender gesture.

Ouyang Nuan's heart skipped a beat, then a smile unconsciously spread across her face at this unexpected good news. "Cousin, that's wonderful, truly wonderful."

Lin Yuanxin raised her head slightly, her gaze clear like autumn water, and whispered, "I was afraid it might be false alarm again, so I consulted different doctors, but they all reached the same conclusion. I'm really pregnant this time! It's true!" There was a suppressed joy in her voice, a joy she couldn't show in front of others for fear of seeming arrogant. She could only share it with Ouyang Nuan.

Ouyang Nuan smiled and said, "Since the Princess Consort gave birth to a daughter, the Prince's household has been eagerly awaiting a son. If you can give birth to a firstborn son, your future position will be unshakeable!"

Lin Yuanxin paused for a moment, then shook her head lightly. "Nowadays, I have no other desires. All I want is to protect the child in my womb."

Ouyang Nuan earnestly said, "Indeed, it's true. With ten months of pregnancy ahead, there's still a long way to go before the due date. Cousin, you must take extra care. Ah, now that you're pregnant, how can you run around everywhere!"

Lin Yuanxin smiled faintly, lifted the hot tea from the table, and replied, "Nowhere is safer than the Prince's household." When she said this, her smile was serene yet tinged with sadness. Then she glanced at the few branches of plum blossoms in the vase and said softly, "Nowadays, thinking back, if I could marry into an ordinary family, my life might have been better."

Her casual words revealed countless sorrows, causing Ouyang Nuan's expression to subtly change, but she pretended not to notice, maintaining a gentle smile. "Why would cousin say such a thing? While others are trying every means to marry into the royal family without success, let alone cousin who now has a child. The future is unpredictable, but you should relax and take good care of yourself and the baby."

Lin Yuanxin smiled softly. "Actually, it's because of my own shortcomings. My temperament isn't strong enough, yet I married into such a family. Now, all I hope for is that Nuan'er can find a good home and avoid repeating my mistakes. That's why I opposed you marrying into the Qin Mansion. Once you go there, not only might you have conflicts with the Princess and the Empress Dowager, but even your own safety in the Qin Mansion is uncertain. The environment there is far more complex than that of the Prince's household."

A faint smile of tranquility appeared on Ouyang Nuan's lips. "Cousin, even if you didn't say these words, I understand them."

"Others may not be so selfless," Lin Yuanxin chuckled. "As long as you're happy, I'm content."

Ouyang Nuan gently held her cousin's cold, slender fingers and chuckled. "Cousin, rest assured, I will find happiness. You will too. Don't lose hope. With the child in your belly, your blessings are yet to come."

Lin Yuanxin adjusted a flower on her hairpin and smiled meaningfully. "Yes, in the past when you said these things to me, I didn't quite understand. But now, I understand it all too well. The Crown Prince is busy with affairs of state, he doesn't have much time to spare for women. Rather than seeking his favor, it's more effective to ingratiate oneself with the Princess Consort and bear him another son."

Ouyang Nuan smiled but didn't respond directly, instead asking, "So, does it mean the Crown Prince has been very busy lately?"

Lin Yuanxin nodded. "His Majesty fell ill, and the Crown Prince has been attending to him in the palace."

"His Majesty fell ill?" Ouyang Nuan's gaze subtly hardened. Lin Yuanxin chuckled, "The Crown Prince said it's just a minor cold, nothing to worry about."

For some reason, a slight sense of unease stirred in Ouyang Nuan's heart, but she suppressed it upon seeing Lin Yuanxin's gentle face. She smiled and said, "Cousin is right. His Majesty is the true dragon emperor. He will surely turn calamity into blessing."

The Emperor sat half-reclined on the bed, wearily flipping through several memorials, occasionally emitting a cold chuckle. At this moment, the eunuchs and palace maids standing by all maintained a solemn posture, not daring to make a sound, lest they disturb the mood of the supreme ruler.

After glancing through a few pages, the Emperor abruptly closed the memorials, his eyes widening suddenly, followed by a flash of chilling coldness. "All a bunch of useless people, only knowing how to submit memorials but none dares to take responsibility!"

"Please calm down, Your Majesty. I have a suitable candidate," said the Crown Prince calmly.

The Emperor frowned. "Who have you chosen?"

The Crown Prince knelt lightly on the footboard before the Emperor's bed, his expression solemn. "This winter and next spring are the most dangerous times for flooding. Once the river bursts its banks, not only will millions of people be displaced, but it will also deplete the national treasury of all available grain. This is a matter that shakes the foundation of the nation. Moreover, Nanzhao has been eyeing our dynasty and attempting invasions year after year, posing a great threat. Dealing with both issues—managing the floods and assessing Nanzhao's intentions—is crucial. To ensure absolute success, it's best for me to personally lead the efforts."

The Emperor sighed inwardly. Such matters should have been handled by the Crown Prince himself, but the Crown Prince... was not capable enough to shoulder such a heavy responsibility. Thus, the young Crown Prince had no choice but to go in his father's stead.

After a moment of contemplation, the Emperor said, "This is also fine." He mumbled a few words and then wearily closed his eyes. "You are still too young for such a burden, it shouldn't have been entrusted to you. However, the capable individuals in the court are too few, and those we can trust are even fewer. Rest assured, when you arrive in Cangzhou, do what you can without worrying about anything else. There are three major garrisons in the capital, and I doubt anyone would dare to cause trouble there. But just in case, it's better to have another plan in place. As for the others..."

Crown Prince Yan listened attentively, but inwardly he thought, the three major garrisons near the capital each stationed fifty thousand soldiers, usually used to guard the capital. If someone had malicious intentions, they might not be able to protect the capital as expected.

The Emperor seemed to trust them too much, which was not a good thing. However, seeing the Emperor's expression, he couldn't voice his concerns. If he were to speak now, whether the Emperor would believe him was one thing, and who knows if there were supporters of the Prince of Qin among those considered the Emperor's confidants...

After pondering for a while, he finally spoke up, "Your Majesty..."

At that moment, a soft and melodious voice suddenly echoed in the hall: "Your Majesty, the medicine is ready!"

Startled, Crown Prince Xiao Yan abruptly turned around to see Consort Yu adorned in a white silk jacket embroidered with ten lion-shaped balls, her magnificent skirt trailing on the ground like graceful clouds in the sky. Holding a bowl of dark medicinal broth, she approached gently and said, "The imperial physician has just prepared the medicine. Your Majesty, please drink it while it's hot."

Hearing this, Xiao Yan had no choice but to stand up and softly replied, "Your Majesty, please take the medicine. I should also go back and make preparations." With a wave of his hand, the Emperor signaled for him to leave.

The next day, a royal decree was issued, appointing Crown Prince Xiao Yan as an imperial censor to inspect and improve the river channels in Cangzhou. This sparked discussions and rumors throughout the court, with officials both admiring the talented young Crown Prince and speculating about the purpose of his upcoming journey.

Meanwhile, Xiao Yan sat quietly in the study of the Ink Lotus Pavilion, gazing at the landscape painting accompanied by verses written by Consort Lin Yuanxin for Ouyang Nuan.

Xiao Yan was raised by the Emperor himself, cultivated to be adept in both literary and martial arts, with a calm demeanor. On the hunting grounds, he was the most fearless hunter. However, once off the field, he enjoyed poetry, ancient reminiscences, and pursuits of calligraphy, painting, music, and chess. He also had a penchant for beautiful women. He belonged to the type of man who pursued perfection while harboring a strong desire for conquest. Thus, he often eliminated his rivals in court without making a sound, and every woman by his side was the best.

For him, Zhou Zhijun was like an orchid nurtured in the Crown Prince's mansion, Lin Yuanxin was a delicate camellia. The only one he couldn't have was Ouyang Nuan, and what made him most uncomfortable was that every time he saw Lin Yuanxin, he couldn't help but search her face for similarities to Ouyang Nuan.

However, the result was often disappointment. Lin Yuanxin's beauty was that of flawless white jade, exuding innate charm. Especially her eyes, shy and timid, each glance casting a gentle aura, like Jiangnan in April.

Ouyang Nuan, on the other hand, always wore a smile on her face, but her eyes were filled with frost. While outwardly appearing fiery, upon closer inspection, her inner coldness could freeze. Yet, it was this coldness that piqued his curiosity repeatedly, prompting him to want to understand what she was truly thinking.

No matter what he did, whether it was cold or warm, Ouyang Nuan seemed oblivious and unaffected. It truly confirmed the saying that the best things are the ones you can't have, and this realization struck deep with Xiao Yan.

Lin Yuanxin paused her writing and lifted her beautiful eyes to look at Xiao Yan. "How long will Your Highness be gone this time?" Her voice was as melodious as a bird's song, sounding particularly pleasant.

Xiao Yan nodded. "I'm not sure for the moment."

"Do you need me to prepare anything for Your Highness?" Lin Yuanxin asked.

Xiao Yan waved his hand to stop her. "Those matters are taken care of by Zhijun; you don't need to worry about them."

Lin Yuanxin smiled faintly, showing no trace of disappointment on her face. After two years of living, she had already learned what role she should play. She softly said, "I hope Your Highness returns soon."

Xiao Yan replied nonchalantly, "You don't need to worry, at most it won't exceed three months."

Lin Yuanxin's long eyelashes lifted slightly as she earnestly said, "Three months might not seem long to others, but in my eyes, it feels like thirty years. Your Highness, I will miss you immensely when you're away."

Xiao Yan smiled. He gradually realized that although Lin Yuanxin's appearance couldn't match Zhou Zhijun's, she was gentler, more considerate, and understanding. He reached out and embraced her, saying, "Silly girl, don't worry about me. Taking good care of yourself and our child is what matters. This child is incredibly precious, you know!"

Lin Yuanxin's smile carried a hint of shyness as she replied, "What's so precious about it? Your Highness is not becoming a father for the first time, why are you so happy?"

Xiao Yan hugged her shoulder and said, "Our child is incomparable to others."

Thinking of Ouyang Nuan's reminder to her to give birth to a healthy son as soon as possible, Lin Yuanxin looked at the bouquet of evergreen on the table and smiled, "Your Highness, rest assured, I will give birth to a healthy child for you."

Xiao Yan chuckled, "That's right, always remember, you don't need to worry about anything, just safely deliver my son."

Suddenly, there was a hurried footsteps outside, followed by someone panting and calling out, "Your Highness, Your Highness!" Xiao Yan's eyes remained on Lin Yuanxin as he calmly responded, "What's the matter?"

The voice outside sounded urgent, "A decree has come from the Emperor. There is a serious flood in Cangzhou. Your Highness, please depart immediately!"

Lin Yuanxin gently pulled away from Xiao Yan's grasp and softly said, "Your Highness, you should leave quickly."

Xiao Yan slowly stood up and said, "Wait for my return." With that, he walked towards the door, pushing it open to be greeted by a gust of wind carrying snowflakes.

Glancing at the sky, Xiao Yan muttered to himself, "It's snowing unexpectedly. The flood in Jiangnan is urgent, and there's no time to delay." Immediately after the decree was issued, Prince Xiao Yan set off for his assignment.

The Empress and officials bid him farewell at the city gate, while Lin Yuanxin could only silently watch from the city tower. Ouyang Nuan helped her put on a silver-white embroidered satin cloak and softly advised, "Cousin, it's windy here. Let's go back."

Lin Yuanxin smiled and said, "Do you think he can see me standing here?"

Ouyang Nuan nodded and replied, "Of course he can see you. Even if he can't, someone will tell him."

There was a hint of melancholy in Lin Yuanxin's smile as she said, "That's good then."

Ouyang Nuan assisted Lin Yuanxin into the carriage and watched as it departed. Then she boarded her own carriage, only to find someone waiting for her inside.

The moment the curtain was lifted, snowflakes danced in the air like early spring apricot blossoms, blowing into Xiao Tianye's collar. He smiled warmly at her, his eyes shining brightly. Subconsciously, Ouyang Nuan lowered the curtain, blocking the view outside.

"Hongyu, you and Changpu sit in the back carriage," Xiao Yan said.

"Yes."

Outside, apart from the howling wind and snow, there was silence. Inside the carriage, a warm brazier burned, and flickers of fire danced in Xiao Tianye's eyes.

Since he went to seek permission for their marriage, they hadn't seen each other. Yet here he was again. Ouyang Nuan's gaze froze, and she deeply bowed to Xiao Tianye. His brows furrowed, and he immediately reached out to support her. "What are you doing?"

She didn't get up, just tilted her head slightly and smiled lightly. "This is my debt to you."

Xiao Tianye was flustered. "I don't understand what you're talking about!" He stubbornly tried to pull her up.

Ouyang Nuan calmly said, "The Prince understands. Actually, all along, our relationship has been one of mutual benefit. No, I should say, the Prince has been sincere to me, while I have merely been using you."

"What are you saying?!" Xiao Tianye seemed to not understand her words, but his eyes involuntarily betrayed a hint of despair, and Ouyang Nuan saw a plea in his eyes.

"Whether it's using or sincerity, I don't care about those!" Xiao Tianye stood there dumbfounded for a long time. Eventually, he bent down slowly, clasped her hand in his, and held it tightly in his palm.

"If you want someone to protect your brother and to break free from the Ouyang family, I can help you with all of that!"

Ouyang Nuan felt as if there was a flame burning in his soul, urging her to join in, but she knew she couldn't. Absolutely not. Because once she ignited that fire, her soul would only writhe and moan in the flames, unable to find release.

At this point, it's not that I don't want to love, but that I can't.

Ouyang Nuan was surprised and afraid, her fingertips trembling slightly. Finally, unable to suppress her fear, she pushed Xiao Tianye away with all her strength.

"Everyone around me would never allow us to be together..." Ouyang Nuan slowly turned her face, her eyes shifting downward gently, her eyelashes trembling slightly. When her lips parted, she uttered a nearly inaudible voice: "We can only blame... our lack of fate."

Just then, Xiao Tianye suddenly frowned, clutching his chest and breathing slightly. Seeing his condition, Ouyang Nuan couldn't help but be surprised. "Where is your medicine?" she asked, reaching instinctively for the vial on his person, only to have him grab her hand abruptly.

Xiao Tianye remained silent, while Ouyang Nuan stood still in place.

Xiao Tianye's grip was tight, but Ouyang Nuan slowly withdrew her hand nonetheless. Despite his efforts, all he could grasp in the end was a piece of her sleeve. The smoothness of the silk felt like handfuls of fine sand slipping through his fingers—grasped at but ultimately escaping his hold.

Ouyang Nuan looked at him, her smile faint yet incredibly beautiful. "Your Highness, I've already said everything that needs to be said. From now on, please don't come looking for me again."

"Unless death..." Xiao Tianye smiled, his words sharp and cold. "Otherwise, you must come to me..." With that, his gaze seemed to frost over, sending a chill down her spine.

For some reason, seeing Xiao Tianye's serious expression, Ouyang Nuan felt a hint of fear in her heart. He was a man who wouldn't take no for an answer, which was why she had always been hesitant to speak these words. It was like many other things she hesitated to seek his help with; she knew his methods were too ruthless. If pushed to his limits, he was capable of anything. With a sigh, she couldn't help but say, "Your Highness, you shouldn't make things difficult for me."

Xiao Tianye's expression softened. "You don't need to fear me. I would never harm you under any circumstances. But I also won't let you go." Pausing for a moment, he suddenly locked eyes with Ouyang Nuan and said, "And there's one more crucial matter. The situation in the capital is tense right now. In the future, don't go out lightly, especially not if someone like Lin Yuanxin invites you out again. Don't get too close to them; it won't be beneficial for you."

Ouyang Nuan was taken aback, her gaze suddenly sharpening. "Your Highness, what do you mean by this?"

Xiao Tianye replied calmly, "You're a clever person. Many things, even if I don't say them, you should understand. A month ago, Prince Ming went to the southwest to train troops. Training troops may be a pretense, but suppressing rebellion is the reality. Today, Xiao Yan went to Cangzhou. What does this imply? You should understand better than anyone."

Ouyang Nuan's face displayed a hint of unease. "Are you saying there will be major turmoil in the near future?"

Xiao Tianye gazed steadily at her. "Don't ask. It's best for you to know nothing."

Looking at him, Ouyang Nuan felt a surge of complex emotions. "Prince, you've come in such haste to advise me to keep my distance from the Crown Prince's residence. Aren't you afraid I'll reveal everything you said today?"

Xiao Tianye chuckled lightly. "My father's methods are ruthless. If things are exposed, it won't be resolved by the death of one or two people. You don't want to see the Marquis Mansion and the Crown Prince's residence bathed in blood, so it's best to remain silent."

Ouyang Nuan was left pale by the conversation, but she forced a smile and said, "Prince, don't joke around. His Majesty is still healthy, and everything seems calm..." Her voice trailed off as she suddenly realized something. Her expression changed drastically, her previously gentle gaze turning as cold as ice.

The Emperor, the Crown Prince, the Grand Prince Qin, the Empress Dowager, and the various other forces, visible or hidden, in the capital made the current situation extremely complicated and unpredictable. Endless gloom clouded her mind. If she made one wrong move now, it could lead to a disastrous outcome. Most importantly, why would Grand Prince Qin, who was known for his cunning, act so recklessly? He must have been absolutely confident. But how could this be possible? The Crown Prince and Prince Yan were still in the capital. Why would Prince Qin make his move at such a time...

•••

**A Note From the Author**

(...) So everyone has always thought that locking down the male lead is the way to go. But why think like that? After all, isn't marriage more important than dating? Knowing the grand finale, what's the point of watching?

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Chapter 107 ROTNDOAHRF

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