Chapter 5: Chapter 105: It Is My Regret

“Presumptuous!” The Emperor roared in fury!

Everyone present was startled by these words! Consort Hao’s hand even trembled!

*Clatter—*

The teacup fell directly to the ground, and the scalding tea spilled onto her hand!

Chen Qimo’s gaze flickered slightly as he took in the entire scene! His brows furrowed tightly! He stared intently at Consort Hao’s unnatural expression... After a brief moment of distraction, he gave a meaningful look to Luo Jiu behind him, and the latter quietly departed.

The Emperor looked toward Consort Hao. “Beloved Consort, what is going on!?” Clearly, he too was suspicious of Consort Hao’s unnatural demeanor!

Consort Hao’s lips trembled slightly as she forced herself to remain calm. “Oh... just now, just now...”

Chen Qimo gave a natural, faint smile, patting Consort Hao’s hand. “Just now, your servant was startled by Master Qin’s claims and accidentally bumped into Imperial Mother while she was drinking tea, which caused the cup to overturn.” He paused, then added with a gentle smile, “Master Qin speaks with such earth-shattering gravity; does he possess any evidence?”

The Emperor naturally preferred to believe Chen Qimo’s words. Relieved, he set aside his doubts and said solemnly, “Indeed, how can such a major matter be decided by your word alone?”

Qin Yufeng glanced at Chen Qimo and stated calmly, “Your Majesty, Prince Mo, please forgive this commoner’s insolence. If Your Majesty truly wishes to know whether it is true or not, you may conduct a blood-recognition test with Prince Mo in front of everyone!”

*Slap—*

The Emperor struck the dragon desk with his large palm, his imperial countenance filled with rage!

The Empress also spoke with a serious expression, “Yufeng, do you realize that the moment you and your father spoke these words, your crime became unpardonable? Yet, His Majesty, mindful of the long-standing friendship between the Imperial Family and the Qin Family, did not punish you. Now, you are merely escalating your behavior...”

She paused briefly. “What are the statuses of His Majesty and Mo’er? How can you be allowed to act so recklessly?”

Qin Hanxue’s gaze fell upon Chen Qimo, as if she were probing for something. He had shown only a momentary flash of panic, and had been calm and composed ever since. A man like this was truly terrifying!

Noticing this burning gaze, Chen Qimo looked up to meet Qin Hanxue’s eyes, his expression carrying a hint of joy and a trace of sorrow.

Qin Hanxue’s ears burned, and she averted her gaze.

“Your Majesty, the Hua Family case has dragged on for over twenty years. Why not settle it today!” Qin Yufeng spoke with forceful conviction, seemingly intending to pressure the Emperor into making a decision!

The Emperor’s brow furrowed deeply as he glanced at Chen Qimo...

After a long silence, Qin Hanxue suddenly spoke, “Your Majesty, have you ever wondered why the truth has remained entangled for twenty years?”

“Naturally, because no one could unravel it,” the Emperor said helplessly.

A faint smile played at the corners of Qin Hanxue’s mouth. “And why is it that no one could unravel it?”

“What exactly are you trying to express?”

“Hanxue wishes to say that we are not only innocent, but we have also contributed merit!” She paused, then immediately added, “Because you are the Emperor and cannot be offended by anyone, even if someone harbored suspicions, no one dared to step forward and speak.”

“And now, that Hanxue’s father and brother dare to question it, it is an act of loyalty to Your Majesty, which is meritorious;

Even if you say you will punish them, they still persist, which is commendable courage, which is meritorious;

To dare to reveal the truth and provide clarity to everyone, which is meritorious;

For twenty years, Prince Mo has grown amidst the suspicions of the masses; this act also provides Prince Mo with an explanation and vindication, which is meritorious...”

“Enough.” The Emperor stopped her softly. “Hanxue, it is truly my regret that you could not become my daughter-in-law.” He paused, then signaled to the eunuch beside him, “Go, make the preparations.”

“Yes!”