A dozen or so minutes later.
Tang Chuan was led into a spacious, brightly lit Reception Hall.
The hall was a little over a hundred square meters. The floor was paved from whole slabs of green jade, smooth as a mirror. Hollowed-out screens carved from fragrant wood stood in the four corners, and the furnishings were simple yet still carried a royal air.
"Please wait a moment, honored guest. His Highness the Crown Prince will arrive shortly." The guard led Tang Chuan into the hall, then turned and bowed respectfully as he spoke in a clear voice.
With that, he bent slightly, withdrew from the Reception Hall, and gently closed the door behind him.
Tang Chuan gave his surroundings a brief look, then casually found a chair and sat down, his gaze lowering slightly. A moment later, he heard unhurried footsteps approaching from outside the door.
The door was gently pushed open. Sunlight spilled in, and a young man slowly walked inside.
The newcomer wore a brocade robe trimmed with gold. His short golden hair was tied behind his head, his features handsome, his bearing gentle as jade. It was Qian Renxue, disguised as Xue Qinghe.
"brother Tang, it's been a long time. Have I kept you waiting?"
Qian Renxue spoke with a smile as she entered the hall, her gaze falling on Tang Chuan, a barely perceptible glimmer flashing deep in her eyes.
"brother Xue, it has been a long time." When Tang Chuan saw Qian Renxue walk in, he immediately rose, cupped his hands slightly, and spoke with respectful, natural composure.
Qian Renxue wore a mild smile and lightly waved her hand, saying calmly, "brother Tang, there's no need for such courtesy. There's no need for us to be so formal with each other."
As she spoke, she