Rebirth: The Journey of an Heiress
Chapter 568 - 565: Peace of Mind_1

Chapter 568: Chapter 565: Peace of Mind_1

"How did you two... end up together?" The Crown Prince looked at Bai Qingyan and Xiao Rongyan, laughing with unconcealed teasing in his eyes. "Oh, I remember now, the Princess of Zhen came to Dengzhou to fetch Madam Dong. I know that. And you, Rong Yan? Did you come because you knew the Princess of Zhen was here?"

Xiao Rongyan smiled gracefully and responded calmly, "Speaking of it, I owe the Princess of Zhen my life again. This time, I originally had business to attend to in Beirong. On my way back, I recalled my conversation with Brother Changlan in Shuoyang about Dengzhou’s scenery. So, I thought of stopping by here on my way back to the Wei Kingdom. Who would have guessed I’d run into the Princess with a marriage alliance from Yan being ambushed by Nanrong? If it weren’t for the timely arrival of the Princess of Zhen and Brother Changlan, I fear I wouldn’t be here to see Your Highness."

"Speaking of this matter..." The Crown Prince put down the teacup with sweet porcelain plum blossoms and looked at Bai Qingyan. "My condolences about your cousin."

Bai Qingyan nodded. "Thank you, Your Highness."

"Rong Yan, you must remember the Princess of Zhen’s lifesaving grace and repay her well!" The Crown Prince hinted meaningfully.

The Crown Prince had initially summoned Bai Qingyan urgently to discuss a matter. Unexpectedly, Xiao Rongyan was also present, so he inquired about Xiao Rongyan’s next steps.

"Originally, after paying respects at the Dong Mansion today, I planned to head back to the Wei Kingdom. Upon hearing from the Princess of Zhen that Your Highness had arrived, I decided to accompany her to greet Your Highness. Once I have seen you, I must take my leave."

The Crown Prince would reach Dengzhou tomorrow. Yet, he called Bai Qingyan over before entering the city. Xiao Rongyan understood... The Crown Prince surely had something to discuss with Bai Qingyan.

He came over partly to spend more time with Bai Qingyan, partly to see someone, and partly to continue building ties with the Crown Prince for future use. With his goals achieved, Xiao Rongyan didn’t stay long. He rose to bid the Crown Prince farewell. "I’ve heard the evening market in Fenping is very lively. I plan to take a look before returning to Dengzhou and departing for my country early tomorrow morning. At this point, I bid farewell to Your Highness."

"Princess of Zhen, please see Rong Yan off for me. I’m not feeling well..." The Crown Prince exaggeratedly held his forehead, indicating his discomfort.

Watching Bai Qingyan escort Xiao Rongyan out, the Crown Prince lowered his hand and picked up the teacup, feeling a surge of joy. He believed his plan to pair Bai Qingyan with Xiao Rongyan was about to succeed. Once Xiao Rongyan married into the Bai family, he would gain a financial supporter. With money to grease the wheels, his position as Crown Prince would be more secure.

Thinking of his position, the Crown Prince couldn’t help but recall the current chaos in Dadu City. His headache intensified. Weary, he commanded, "Quan Yu, summon Master Fang and Mr. Qin here, telling them the Princess of Zhen has arrived."

"Your Highness, you forgot. When we reached Fenping, Mr. Ren mentioned he needed to visit his elderly mother and would return tomorrow morning," Quan Yu reminded with a smile.

The Crown Prince nodded in sudden realization. "Then, bring Master Fang and Mr. Qin."

After escorting Xiao Rongyan to the door, Bai Qingyan heard him say quietly, "This Crown Prince only thinks of you when he has matters to discuss. Be cautious. If needed... you can send someone to my shop in Dengzhou."

With the Crown Prince’s men nearby, Xiao Rongyan couldn’t say much. Bai Qingyan nodded lightly. "Don’t worry. Be safe on your way back to the Wei Kingdom."

"Hmm. Once I reach the Wei Kingdom safely, I’ll send word," Xiao Rongyan glanced behind Bai Qingyan, ensuring the servants weren’t looking their way. He lowered his head, focusing on Bai Qingyan’s bruised wrist. Stepping forward, he gently held her wrist, his thumb brushing the bruise as he spoke softly. "I’ll send you medicine when you return to Dengzhou tomorrow. Remember to apply it, and keep taking the previous medicine regularly. I’ll send more in a while."

"I understand," Bai Qingyan replied, her ears turning red.

Satisfied with her response, Xiao Rongyan stepped back and bowed formally. "Farewell."

"Take care, Mr. Xiao."

Seeing the smile in Bai Qingyan’s clear eyes, Xiao Rongyan felt his mood lighten, a welcome change after Princess Mingcheng’s death had left him somber all day.

Xie Xun had been devastated by Mingcheng’s passing. Yet, Yan’s remaining capable generals included Xie Xun, who outshone others in prowess. The Second Prince, though brave, was not yet reliable.

Xiao Rongyan had to regain his resolve. He needed to return and buoy Xie Xun.

Watching Xiao Rongyan leave, Bai Qingyan composed herself and turned back. She met Master Fang and Qin Shangzhi at the doorway.

"Princess of Zhen..." Qin Shangzhi greeted her first.

Qin Shangzhi appeared even thinner than the last time Bai Qingyan saw him. Initially prominent, his high nose and deep eyes were now accentuated by his sunken cheeks.

Bai Qingyan couldn’t help but take another look at Qin Shangzhi. Remembering his tragic end in her previous life, she felt a pang of sorrow.

Master Fang also bowed to her. "Greetings, Princess of Zhen."

Bai Qingyan nodded to Qin Shangzhi and Master Fang, leading the way into the hall.

The Crown Prince waved his hand, dismissing the maid massaging his shoulders. Adjusting his posture, he instructed Quan Yu, "Guard outside. Let no one approach!"

Quan Yu nodded, leading the eunuchs and maids outside to stand guard.

The Crown Prince sighed. "King Liang is gaining more favor with Father. The Empress is pregnant, and we don’t know if it’s a boy or girl. At this critical time, King Xin has returned! King Xin has always been Father’s favorite, brought up personally by him! Master Fang suggests letting King Liang, King Xin, and the Empress clash. I’d reap the benefits. But lately, sitting in this chair feels scorching."

Seeing the Crown Prince’s furrowed brow, Master Fang advised earnestly, "Your Highness, I believe you should stay calm. You’re already the Crown Prince. As long as you avoid major errors, no one can take your place! Isn’t that right, Princess of Zhen?"

Master Fang had repeated this many times to the Crown Prince. Yet, the recent tumult in Dadu had made the Crown Prince restless, especially after the Emperor sent him to this remote place, Dengzhou. Unable to quiet the Crown Prince’s anxiety, Master Fang turned to Bai Qingyan, hoping she would support his advice.

But Master Fang had a deeper motive. He aimed to catch Bai Qingyan off guard and test her loyalty.

Although it seemed the Crown Prince had won Bai Qingyan over, Master Fang remained wary of her. She was the only person who ever made the Crown Prince challenge his advice. Thus, Master Fang could not ease his suspicion.