"But how did Prince Liang's Estate get dragged into this later?"
Old Wen spoke of what had happened, but Princess Chenxian was still more willing to believe the rumors circulating in Chu. After all, that version was easier to believe.
Old Wen slowly explained what had happened back then. "After the Chu imperial family uncovered the Consort's identity and origins, Emperor Chu secretly summoned Prince Hong into the palace and told him about your mother's identity and origins."
"Prince Hong was struck as if by lightning at the time. The blow hit him extremely hard. He had never imagined that the woman who accompanied him day and night was actually a spy from the Nine Underworlds Demon Palace."
"Prince Hong's heart turned to ashes, but he had deep feelings for both your mother and you."
"Prince Hong made an extremely selfish decision... He was willing to surrender his military authority in exchange for a chance at survival for you and your mother!"
Princess Chenxian was dumbfounded.
One had to understand... Five thousand years ago, Prince Hong Estate had been the most powerful military estate in Chu's territory, far stronger even than Prince Liang's Estate was today.
The fierce generals under the estate's command numbered more than ten thousand, while its soldiers and armies consisted of over a hundred million martial artists. It could be said to have been an existence that held power over all under heaven.
Prince Hong had actually been willing to surrender his military authority in exchange for a chance at survival for Princess Chenxian and her mother?
"And the Chu imperial family valued its reputation above all!"
Even Lin Bai could not imagine... how terrifying the situation had been before Prince Hong died back then.
"Of course, Prince Hong had secretly helped behind the scenes as