Bestowing Treasures and a Crown, Settling the Succession; Palace Coup Concludes, Throne Made Clear

For three whole days, the medicinal fragrance in Tang Sect's secret chamber simmered without pause. The moment Yang Wudi lifted the lid of the medicine cauldron, the tense atmosphere in the chamber finally eased somewhat. The dark green brew had condensed into a thick paste. He scooped up a spoonful with a silver spoon and carefully fed it into Xue Ye's mouth. Before long, the bluish-black tint in the emperor's face slowly faded, and his breathing steadied.

"It worked!" Yang Wudi wiped the sweat from his brow and said to Tang San and the others standing watch nearby, "The poison has been contained. He only needs to take the antidote daily, and he'll make a full recovery in one month."

Just as Tang San was about to speak, Xue Ye, lying on the stone bed, slowly opened his eyes. His gaze was weak yet clear as it swept over the group before finally settling on Tang San. His voice was hoarse with gratitude. "Young Friend Tang... thank you for saving my life."

"Your Majesty should rest and recover. It was simply this junior's duty," Tang San said with cupped hands. Xue Beng immediately stepped forward, tightly grasping Xue Ye's hand with reddened eyes. "Father Emperor, you're finally awake! These past few days terrified me!"

Xue Ye patted Xue Beng's hand, then called out toward the door, "Pass on my decree. Prepare the carriage for the main hall of the Tang Sect residence! I will bestow rewards before all!"

Half an hour later, the Tang Sect's main hall had been arranged with solemn grandeur. Xue Ye sat in the seat of honor. Though he still needed cushions for support, his complexion had improved greatly. Looking at Tang San below, he suddenly rose to his feet, took a golden seal inlaid with