Springtime Farming: A Happy Wife At Home

When the Crown Prince received the news, the imperial edict had already been issued, leaving him seething with anger. In his East Palace study, he vented his frustration through an explosive outburst.

Princess Consort and the others fell silent, apprehensive of his fury.

With each passing year, the Crown Prince had grown more composed and dignified. It had been many years since his temper had flared in such a manner.

Unable to contain his emotions any longer and unwilling to concede defeat, the Crown Prince decided to go to the court and plead with the Emperor to rescind the order.

“Father,” he implored, “Lord Shao is still young and has never undertaken such a responsibility before. I believe it would be more appropriate to dispatch an experienced official as the marriage envoy. Please reconsider, Father.”

Throughout all these years, the Crown Prince had never contested any of the Emperor’s decisions. However, his appeal didn’t elicit a positive response. Instead, it seemed to irritate the Emperor, who had always been stern. His countenance darkened, and he retorted coldly, “Is my imperial edict a matter to be trifled with, subject to change at a whim? I have my own reasons for this decision, Crown Prince, and there is no need for further discussion.”

“Your Highness, simply perform your duties. You need not inquire further about my intentions.”

These words left the Crown Prince trembling with trepidation. How could he dare utter another word? He respectfully bowed and withdrew.

Upon discreet inquiry, the Crown Prince learned that Honored Princess Mei and Daoist Shangzhen had instigated his father to appoint Shao Yunduan as the envoy.

They had done so to spite him, as it was his actions that had indirectly implicated Shao Yunduan.

The Crown Prince was incensed.

Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan remained unaware of this.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

However, the following day, when the Crown Prince summoned Shao Yunduan, he discovered that Shao Yunduan was already privy to the situation. A heavy silence hung between them.

With a guilt-ridden expression and a bitter smile, the Crown Prince confessed, “I have inadvertently drawn Officer Shao into this predicament. I never anticipated the vehement opposition against Officer Shao, nor did I expect my father to acquiesce. I beseeched my father to retract the order, but my efforts were in vain. I fear Officer Shao will have to embark on this journey…”

Shao Yunduan cast a surprised glance at the Crown Prince.

After the Emperor had issued the decree, the Crown Prince had gone so far as to plead his case directly with the Emperor, a highly unusual move for him.

“What else can I say, Crown Prince?” Shao Yunduan smiled warmly. “In truth, I am genuinely eager to experience the customs of Qingdi. Such an opportunity is a rare privilege. Furthermore, I will feel more at ease accompanying Princess Shuangfu.”

Unspoken between them was the knowledge that Honored Princess Mei, the Fourth Prince, and their allies had seethed with jealousy upon witnessing the Emperor’s praise of the Crown Prince. Given Shao Yunduan’s significant role in this matter, they would seize any opportunity to target him.

The Crown Prince felt reassured after hearing Shao Yunduan’s words. He sighed, saying, “You are indeed Officer Shao, with knowledge beyond that of ordinary individuals. Rest assured, I won’t expose you to danger. I will arrange for someone to protect you. Moreover, as a marriage envoy, I doubt Qingdi would dare to act rudely. Nonetheless, the road ahead is long, and the waters are deep. No one can predict what may transpire along the way. Officer Shao, you must be prepared.”

“If you require anything, Officer Shao, do not hesitate to inform me.”

“Thank you, Crown Prince.” Shao Yunduan nodded in appreciation. “I will contemplate my preparations upon my return, and I will be ready for any eventuality.”

The Crown Prince nodded in return, determination in his eyes. “Officer Shao, I trust you will return safely!”