Poisonous Scheme

Prince Qi returned to his residence in a fury. Once inside his Book of Documents study, he issued a string of orders for several people to come.

Wen Xunpeng was nearby and knew Prince Qi had always been impatient, so he hurried over. He heard Prince Qi say angrily, "Have you heard about what happened at court?"

Wen Xunpeng bowed. "I just heard. His Majesty seems to have sensed something. Not only did he refuse Your Highness's request, he also intends to confer a title upon the Dragon Maiden."

Prince Qi paced in circles before the screen. "Exactly. Do you think the Fifth Brother is behind this?"

The Fifth Brother was Prince Shu. After considering for a moment, Wen Xunpeng said, "Your Highness, although Prince Shu's wings have gradually filled out over the past few years, he still falls short of Your Highness. We obtained the matter of the Dragon Maiden through that place; it was exceedingly secret, and we had only been making preparations for a day or two. How could it possibly have leaked?"

"Could Prince Shu also have a channel connected to that place?"

Wen Xunpeng was cautious by nature. Even within the prince's residence, in this highly confidential Book of Documents study, he still replaced the words "Demon Race" with "that place," leaving behind no handle for anyone to seize.

Prince Qi pondered it carefully. "It is possible, though unlikely. Forget that. How should we respond now?"

"Mr. Chu's strategy is actually quite seasoned." Wen Xunpeng straightened and said solemnly, "At present, our best course is either to remain still, lest His Majesty grow suspicious."

"Or, before the imperial edict is issued, strike with the force of thunder."

"This matter is of grave importance. This subordinate dares not overstep his bounds and asks Your Highness to