Yang Qing refused outright, his gaze resolute, prompting Chu Jinghui to give him another look.
But before the emperor could speak, Princess Nazhen had already taken up the conversation.
"Your Majesty, Nazhen also withdraws what she said just now."
"Oh? Why do you say that, Princess?"
Hearing Nazhen's words, Chu Jinghui raised his eyebrows.
Was this a woman's fickle nature at work?
Had she changed her mind so quickly?
"Your Majesty, they say women admire heroes. Though Nazhen is a princess, she is still only one woman among the countless women of this world. Naturally, I have my own desires."
"Lord Yang's formidable reputation has spread throughout Northern Liang, and he is so handsome and distinguished. It was only natural that Nazhen should lose her heart for a moment."
Nazhen did not speak loudly, yet every word reached everyone present with perfect clarity.
Yang Qing stood to one side with his head lowered, saying nothing.
"But how could someone who rose to fame in Yan Prefecture within just a few short years truly be incompetent? Even if Lord Yang agreed to this marriage, I imagine Your Majesty would refuse."
At this point, Nazhen smiled gently. "It is simply that everyone says Lord Yang cares little for fame or fortune, that he conducts himself with unfailing composure and rarely lets his emotions show. That was why I acted as I did just now."
Having finished, Nazhen bowed to Yang Qing again. "What rather surprised Nazhen, however, was that Lord Yang truly cannot be measured against ordinary men. Nazhen acted rashly."
Yang Qing returned her bow. "You are too hard on yourself, Princess."
"You are indeed refreshingly forthright, Princess. We are most pleased. Another day, we shall arrange for suitable candidates to meet with you. What do you say?"
Seated above them,