Gather!

Heaven Dou City, Imperial Study.

Xue Ye sat behind his desk, holding an urgent memorial from the Service Kingdom.

The memorial's contents were simple, yet every word carried immense weight. Ancient Ruins had been discovered in the western part of the kingdom, dating back at least ten thousand years. The first exploration team had lost a Soul Emperor, while the tablets and fragments they brought back had been identified by scholars as Ancient Relics of extremely high value.

He set down the memorial and looked at Crown Prince Xue Qinghe, who stood before him.

"Qinghe, you've heard about the Service Kingdom, haven't you?"

Xue Qinghe bowed slightly, his expression gentle and his tone respectful. "This son has heard of it."

"I intend to have you go in my stead."

Leaning back in his chair, Xue Ye spoke quietly, yet with unmistakable finality. "The Service Kingdom is one of the empire's important grain storehouses. Since those ruins have appeared on their territory, the empire cannot ignore them. Represent the Imperial Family and inspect the place. See what exactly those ruins are about. Consider it a chance to get out and relax as well. You've worked hard handling state affairs lately."

Xue Qinghe bowed again. "This son obeys."

"Mm. You may leave."

Xue Ye nodded, gave him a few more instructions, then dismissed him.

Xue Qinghe left the Imperial Study and followed the corridor back to the Eastern Palace.

His pace was neither hurried nor slow, and his gentle expression remained unchanged. The palace maids and guards he encountered along the way all saluted him, and he returned each greeting with a nod, carrying himself with humility.

Only after returning to the Eastern Palace and closing the doors behind him did the gentle smile on his face gradually fade.

Qian Renxue stood