Where Her Heart Belonged, Jiang Xuanli Willingly Chose to Follow

Divine Son Hall, Side Hall.

Since that sword strike had destroyed the reception hall as well, Qin Wangchuan had no choice but to receive her here instead.

Jiang Xuanli stepped into the hall, her gaze sweeping discreetly over the surroundings as understanding dawned in her heart.

Such a private place... the Divine Son has most likely already guessed why I came.

She did not resist the idea. On the contrary, she felt it was for the best, sparing them much beating around the bush.

Some words only showed true sincerity when laid bare and spoken plainly.

After offering her greetings, she took her seat.

Jiang Xuanli shed the usual aloofness between her brows, and her voice softened somewhat. Yet she did not rush straight to the matter at hand, instead opening with a preamble.

"That golden ring hanging in midair has caused quite an uproar outside these past few days. There are all manner of theories, but no one can say for certain what happened."

"Xuanli guessed that only the Divine Son emerging from seclusion could have caused such a commotion, so I rashly came to disturb you."

As she spoke, a faint smile touched her lips.

"I thought I had come for nothing, but it seems... I really did guess right."

Qin Wangchuan waved a hand at her words.

"Spare me the pleasantries. Speak plainly."

Jiang Xuanli visibly relaxed and stopped circling around the matter.

"I presume the Divine Son has heard as well."

"Father Emperor has announced his abdication, and the throne remains undecided."

"The various factions in court can no longer hold themselves back. The princes are secretly vying against one another, while several royal uncles have each gathered their own supporters. Openly and in secret, all eyes are fixed on that seat."

"If it were only