After the imperial physician diagnosed her external injuries, Shen Qing prepared to bid farewell to the Crown Prince and return to the Chancellor's Residence.
The Crown Prince looked at Shen Qing, speaking earnestly.
"Next time, don't be so impulsive. Venturing into danger alone is reckless; if it weren't for Zhao Yi being nearby, the consequences could have been dire."
Shen Qing felt a warmth in her heart and began to piece together some of the circumstances.
"Your Highness's admonitions are deeply appreciated. I acted without much thought due to the urgency of the situation; it was indeed reckless of me."
The Crown Prince sighed softly, taking a couple of steps closer, his gaze gentle.
"I understand your unwillingness and determination. Rest assured, this matter of investigation is not solely your responsibility; I will lend my support. For now, return to the Chancellor's Residence and do not act rashly again."
Touched, Shen Qing slightly knelt in gratitude.
"Thank you for your concern, Your Highness. I will be more cautious. Please take care of yourself as well; the situation is complex, and we must not let our guard down."
Upon returning to the Chancellor's Residence, Shen Qing noticed a different atmosphere within the household. The servants looked at her with a mix of reverence and curiosity, as she had been saved from an assassination attempt by the Crown Prince and had just returned from the Crown Prince's Residence. Everyone speculated about her relationship with him.
When Lin Yue saw her, a flicker of jealousy and resentment crossed her eyes, but she quickly replaced it with a false smile. "Sister, you’re finally back! I was so worried when I heard about your assassination attempt."
Though Lin Yue spoke of concern, her eyes were filled with mockery.
Shen Qing chuckled inwardly but maintained her composure on the surface.
"Thank you for your concern, sister. It was merely a superficial injury."
At that moment, the butler hurried over and, upon seeing Shen Qing, quickly bowed.
"Miss, you have finally returned. The master has asked you to come to the study after your arrival; he says there is an important matter to discuss."
Upon hearing this, Lin Yue's expression instantly darkened as she looked at the butler in disbelief.
"What did you say? Father is looking for her? How is that possible!"
Shen Qing slightly curled her lips, a hint of barely perceptible satisfaction flashing in her eyes.
"Sister, it seems that Father indeed has something important to discuss with me. I won't keep you company any longer."
With that, she gracefully walked towards the study, leaving Lin Yue fuming in place, stamping her feet in frustration.
Shen Qing arrived at the study and bowed to the Chancellor.
"Father, did you call for your daughter?"
The Chancellor sat behind his desk, his gaze scrutinizing her.
" Qing'er, please take a seat. I have heard about your injury and know that you were saved by the Crown Prince. Tell me, what is your relationship with him?"
Shen Qing's heart tightened slightly, but her face remained calm and composed.
"Father, I merely encountered His Highness by chance. I was in danger at the time and was saved by his guards; that is all. I understand my position and would never dare to overstep my bounds."
The Chancellor frowned slightly, as if weighing the truth of Shen Qing's words.
"Is it really so? You must understand that the current situation in court is complex. The Second Prince and the Crown Prince are in constant conflict, and our Chancellor's Residence is caught in the middle; we cannot afford to be easily drawn into their disputes. As the daughter of the Chancellor's Residence, you must act with utmost caution and ensure that no disaster befalls our household."
Shen Qing lowered her head and spoke softly.
"Your daughter understands and will always remember her identity and responsibilities. I will not do anything to tarnish the reputation of the Chancellor's Residence."
The Chancellor nodded, his expression easing slightly.
"Good, it's reassuring that you understand. The capital has been unstable lately; do not go out carelessly."
Shen Qing replied, "Yes, I will be cautious."
After leaving the study, Shen Qing secretly sighed in relief. She knew she had temporarily alleviated the Chancellor's concerns, but she also understood that in this ever-changing situation, she needed to be even more careful.
At this moment, the Chancellor's Residence found itself in a delicate position due to Shen Qing's close relationship with the Crown Prince. The Second Prince was frequently pressuring the Chancellor through various means, hinting that he should choose a side, while the Chancellor remained indecisive.
He was acutely aware that choosing the wrong side could lead to disaster for the entire Chancellor's Residence, yet the Second Prince's current power made him hesitant to offend him.
On the other hand, the Second Prince, Xiao Yichen, was becoming increasingly arrogant in court.
He took advantage of the Emperor's favoritism towards him, continuously placing his confidants in important positions and marginalizing officials who were originally loyal to the Crown Prince.
At the same time, he secretly colluded with several generals stationed at the borders who held significant military power, promising them promotions and titles once their plans succeeded. He urged them to remain inactive for now, waiting for a crucial moment when they could be of use to him.
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