Chapter 15: The Emperor's Summons
She then carried Yuanjiu out of the Cold Palace, with Hanxue silently following behind.
The two ceremonial officials were already waiting outside.
Upon seeing them come out, the officials offered a few perfunctory words of courtesy, however Yuanjiu still noticed their disdain expressions under their words of courtesy.
A royal child who is born in the Cold Palace naturally commanded no respect; even receiving mere disdainful glances could be considered fortunate, as it wasn't uncommon for servants to outright bully such child.
Bearing in mind the principle of avoiding unnecessary trouble, Aunt Yue and Hanxue endured the humiliation in silence.
The only thing that they can do is swallowing their anger and grievance.
Resting against Aunt Yue's chest, Yuanjiu remained motionless.
She quietly contemplating what the hundred-day banquet test might be.
Regardless, she had already resolved not to reveal her true abilities to anyone.
After passing several palace buildings, Yuanjiu saw a magnificent structure towering before her.
The plaque above the entrance bore four bold characters: Caohan Sacred Hall.
The two rows of people who are dressed in pristine white robes stood on either side of the plaza before the hall.
Following the ceremonial officials, Aunt Yue stepped into the sacred hall and stopped at a position near the stairs on the right.
Before long, a loud voice announced, "His Majesty has arrived!"
Everyone knelt in unison, chanting, "We, your ministers/sons/concubines, humbly welcome Your Majesty!"
"You may rise." A deep and melodious voice resonated throughout the hall.
Yuanjiu who had been resting with her eyes half-closed against Aunt Yue opened her eyes and curiously surveying the grand hall.
She noticed that it was filled with ministers, concubines, and other royal children.
She zlightly tilting her head and caught sight of a tall and graceful figure moving toward the throne.
A cascade of sleek, jet-black hair flowed like a waterfall down the person's back, reaching his waist.
He lifted their robes gracefully and turned with elegance to sit firmly on the throne.
His left hand rested naturally on the armrest, while the right hand idly toyed with a strand of hair, his demeanor exuding effortless composure.
When Yuanjiu saw the person's face, even someone as composed as she is couldn't help but be momentarily captivated.
What a truly striking handsome figure!
He looked incredibly young and looked no older than twenty-four or twenty-five.
His bright and star-like eyes sparkled like deep pools reflecting starlight, drawing others in with a mere glance.
Just a casual sweep of his gaze emitted an overwhelming aura, which making it difficult for anyone to meet his eyes directly.
His entire being radiated an undeniable regal presence that instinctively make people compelled into submission.
His thin lips that was curved into a faint, ambiguous smile, causing those people around him to tread carefully and instinctively questioning if they had unwittingly offended him.
This man was unquestionably a natural-born ruler.
Is he this body so-called father?
Yuanjiu quietly lowered her gaze.
"Father"?
What a bitterly ironic word.
She closed her eyes slightly while suppressing her emotions.
"Where is the Ninth Princess?"