Chapter Thirteen:The Truth Revealed
530 Words
It wasn’t until Lin Yue entered her second trimester that the truth of her pregnancy was revealed. One of the palace maids, bribed by Su Wen, discovered her condition and spread the news like wildfire.
Concubine Yao’s reaction was immediate. “An heir?” she hissed, pacing her chambers. “This cannot be allowed!”
Lady Hua, another of Lin Yue rivals, was equally furious. “If she gives birth to the heir, her position will be solidified. We must act before it’s too late.”
The concubines joined forces, their jealousy uniting them in a shared goal: to separate the emperor from Lin Yue.
When the news reached Zhao Ming, he acted swiftly. He summoned the council and issued an unexpected decree.
“From this day forward,” he announced, “the palace harem will be reduced. Those without children or significant contributions will be dismissed.”
The concubines protested, their voices rising in a cacophony of outrage, but Zhao Ming silenced them with a single glare.
“Enough,” he said coldly. “This is not a debate
The emperor’s decision shocked the court, but it was clear to everyone that it was a calculated move. With fewer women in the palace, the emperor could better protect Lin Yue and ensure the safety of his heir.
Despite his efforts, the danger remained. Concubine Yao and Su Wen weren’t finished, and their schemes grew more desperate as Lin Yue due date approached.
The news had spread quickly: the neighboring kingdom of Xilong was preparing for war. Their king, young and ambitious, was determined to claim more land and strengthen his position by seizing the fertile Hanzhou territories.
In the royal court, ministers whispered nervously among themselves, their fears growing with every passing day.
Emperor Zhao Ming sat on his throne, his cold, calculating gaze sweeping over the gathered officials. The grand hall was silent except for the rustle of silk robes and the shuffling of nervous feet.
“Xilong has made its move,” Zhao Ming said, his deep voice cutting through the tension. “They think Hanzhou weak, that we will bow to their threats.”
The ministers exchanged wary glances.
“But they will learn,” Zhao Ming continued, his tone sharp, “that Hanzhou does not fall. General Xu Han,” he said, turning to the tall, battle-hardened man standing at the base of the throne, “you will remain in the palace to oversee its defense.”
The general bowed deeply. “As you command, Your Majesty.”
Zhao Ming rose from his throne, his imposing figure casting a long shadow across the hall. “I will lead our armies. The Xilong king wants war. I will give him war.”
The court erupted in murmurs of shock and protest.
“Your Majesty!” Minister Zhu stepped forward, his voice quivering. “If you leave the palace, the capital will be vulnerable! We cannot risk your life—”
“My life is of no concern,” Zhao Ming said coldly, silencing the room. “The people of Hanzhou are my priority. They will see their emperor fight for them, as a ruler should.”
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