Breaking the Deadlock

Li Miaotan withdrew her shimmering gaze from the strange flowers and turned it toward him.

It was like a clear spring flowing straight at him.

Chu Zhiyuan watched her quietly.

Li Miaotan's eyes were sharply black and white, her deep, tranquil gaze fixed on him as though she wanted to see through him.

Chu Zhiyuan wanted to see through her as well.

The closer he got, the more he felt that she was shrouded in a veil of mist.

It was as though Super Sensation had lost its power.

Li Miaotan said softly, "From now on, you'll be living in the imperial city too. There are some things you need to understand in advance, lest something go wrong."

Chu Zhiyuan smiled. "What things?"

"You should have learned something about the situation here beforehand, shouldn't you?"

"I have a general understanding, but Jade Scenery's eyes and ears aren't very effective here."

"The most important are my three imperial brothers: Eldest Brother, Second Brother, and Third Brother."

Chu Zhiyuan leaned forward and stared at her.

"Eldest Brother is brave and resolute, fierce as fire, with a bad temper. He is deeply supported by the military."

"The First Prince's roots lie in the military." Chu Zhiyuan nodded lightly.

"Second Brother is refined and courteous, broad-minded and modest, flexible in his dealings, with a fine reputation outside."

"The Second Prince's roots lie among the civil officials." Chu Zhiyuan nodded.

"As for Third Brother... his nature is too weak, and he is too innocent. In truth, he does not like the throne."

"Mm—? The Third Prince's roots aren't among the meritorious nobles?"

As far as he knew, those supporting the Third Prince were the descendants of meritorious officials—the Duke's Mansions, Marquis's Mansions, and Earl's Mansions.

"Third Brother is the Empress's son. He has no choice