How could they break the current deadlock?
There was no denying it.
Xue Beng's question had struck right at the heart of the matter.
Xue Xing immediately fell silent.
But from Xue Xing's flickering gaze, Xue Beng could tell that his heart was far from calm.
A long time passed.
A glint of resolve flashed through Xue Xing's eyes. At last, he had made up his mind.
"Since my imperial brother has shown me no kindness, he can't blame me for showing him no loyalty."
Hearing this, Xue Xing felt his back go cold, a chill rising in his heart.
One word surfaced unbidden in his mind: rebellion!
"What, are you afraid?"
Just then, Xue Xing noticed Xue Beng's unusual reaction and cast him a cold look.
"Afraid?"
Xue Beng froze for a moment, then hurriedly shook his head. "What do I have to fear? Once I'm banished to my fief, I'll truly have nothing left."
"I am willing to obey your every command, Royal Uncle!"
He spoke to Xue Xing with utter respect.
He knew perfectly well that they were grasshoppers tied to the same string. Neither could hope to save himself alone.
"Good. I'm very pleased that you have such resolve."
"All my careful guidance and wholehearted support over the years haven't been wasted."
Xue Xing was very satisfied with Xue Beng's attitude. "If you're ready now, come with me to the palace for an audience with His Majesty."
"Now?" Xue Beng blinked. "Don't we need to make some preparations?"
"What more is there to prepare?" Xue Xing smiled. "In truth, I've been preparing for this day for years. I simply hadn't expected it to arrive quite so soon."
"Come with me."
With that, he led the way out through the door and into the open space outside.