Qiqi said, "Power can make people lose their way. If you think our existence threatens your throne, you'll forget the ties between us."
Long Xuan'en looked at Qiqi. He was not angry; instead, a faint smile touched his lips. "I reigned for over forty years, and I never killed a single brother or sister with my own hands. Though most of them are gone now, none bore me any resentment. Your father has been on the throne for less than a year, yet five of his brothers have already died at his hands. In that respect, I cannot compare with him."
Qiqi said, "It seems your resentment toward my father really does run deep."
Long Xuan'en coughed. "Forget it. Better not to mention it, lest the younger generation laugh at me... I never expected you to be the only one willing to come see me."
Qiqi said, "I didn't come out of any familial affection. I came out of curiosity."
Long Xuan'en smiled. "Curiosity about what? Ask whatever you wish. As long as I know the answer, I'll tell you."
Qiqi slowly took a step closer and lowered her voice. "Were you the one who killed my mother?"
Long Xuan'en said, "Come closer."
Qiqi moved a little closer, though she still kept her distance.
Long Xuan'en said, "You needn't fear me. I should be the one afraid. Would you like to hear a secret?"
Of course Qiqi wanted to, but she feared Long Xuan'en might be playing a trick. She raised her right hand slightly inside her sleeve and said quietly, "You'd better not try anything, or the Rainstorm Pear Blossom Needles in my hand will show no mercy."
Long Xuan'en laughed. "Forget the Rainstorm Pear Blossom Needles-you couldn't have brought so much as a sewing needle in here. To