Let Me Go, I’m Not Pregnant - Chapter 32

On the other side, the man watched in a daze as the person he accidentally pushed fell into the water.

 

He didn’t intend to push the person into the water; it’s just that the other party was completely unprepared—

 

The person inside was struggling, flailing their arms randomly, on the brink of running out of breath. He intended to go in and rescue them, but just as he lifted his foot, he keenly noticed someone approaching.

 

He immediately leaped onto a nearby tree.

 

In no time, a man and a woman with swords came running.

 

Gu Xingzhi saw Luo Shen, who fell into the water, and immediately threw his sword aside, leaping down.

 

Changxin also intended to go, but then her gaze inadvertently swept over the shoe prints on the ground, her sharp eyes instantly scanning the nearby trees.

 

He felt a tightening in his heart and suddenly remembered that these people were the ones who injured his men that day and took away Changyan.

 

He narrowed his eyes, forming a guess in his mind.

 

Gu Xingzhi pulled the person out of the water, intending to lay them on the shore for emergency treatment, but Changxin withdrew her gaze and suddenly noticed something amiss near Luo Shen’s neck.

 

She immediately stepped forward to stop Gu Xingzhi: “Give it to me!”

 

Gu Xingzhi’s grip tightened on the person: “Miss, saving a life comes first.”

 

Luo Shen had already passed out, and he needed to promptly press the water out of Luo Shen’s lungs.

 

But Changxin wouldn’t budge: “I have my own way! Give it to me!”

 

Gu Xingzhi frowned: “Changxin, are you really capable?”

 

Changxin hesitated, staring at Luo Shen, seeing his pale face, unable to bear it, and compromised: “Then close your eyes!”

 

Gu Xingzhi: “…”

 

He was about to retort, but the next moment, Changxin pressed on: “Otherwise, I’ll do it!”

 

Gu Xingzhi naturally wouldn’t hand the person over.

 

He didn’t have time to argue with Changxin now, so he simply followed her instructions, laying the person flat on the ground and closing his eyes, pressing on Luo Shen’s chest.

 

One press after another until Luo Shen coughed out the water, curling up in pain.

 

Gu Xingzhi felt the slight tremble under his palm, finally relieved.

 

Before he could completely relax, the next moment, there was no one under his hand. He raised his head abruptly, only to see Changxin carrying the person and running wildly.

 

Gu Xingzhi: “…”

 

He picked up the sword on the ground, considering whether to directly confront what he knew. At this moment, a figure rushed at him from behind.

 

Gu Xingzhi immediately used his sword to block, turning around to create distance from the attacker.

 

The weapons clashed again, locking eyes, the fierce intent to kill evident in the black-clothed person’s eyes. Gu Xingzhi found the person somewhat familiar and after a moment’s thought, remembered: “You’re from the Prince Qin’s side?”

 

The person, seeing this, didn’t hide it: “Where did you take the Prince Qin?!”

 

Gu Xingzhi said: “Your prince is missing, so you came to the palace to look for him?”

 

“If it’s not you, then who else? He’s the emperor’s brother. If you lay a hand on the prince, aren’t you afraid the emperor will have your heads chopped off?”

 

Gu Xingzhi: “…”

 

Who kidnapped the prince? It was the emperor himself.

 

“No evidence, falsely accusing officials of the court. Your life is probably forfeit even if the Prince Qin returns.”

 

“Then you just try!”

 

The black-clothed person suddenly attacked, a long sword stabbing straight towards Gu Xingzhi’s face.

 

Gu Xingzhi smiled, not evading but meeting the attack head-on. The two swords clashed again, the opponent prepared to be pushed back, but then, at that moment, Gu Xingzhi’s sword suddenly softened, swirling up and over the opponent’s sword.

 

The black-clothed person, caught off guard, still ran forward for a couple of steps. He hurriedly tried to strike back, but Gu Xingzhi had seized the opportunity, dodging to his side, grabbing the back of his neck, and delivering a heavy blow to his abdomen.

 

The person immediately passed out.

 

Gu Xingzhi quickly tied him up and ordered someone to temporarily detain him, then he hurried to Luo Shen’s palace.

 

At that time, Luo Shen had just finished bathing.

 

Because he had spent quite some time in the water earlier, consuming a great deal of energy, Luo Shen’s fingers were trembling even as he put on his clothes.

 

Chang’an outside the room was almost frantic: “Your Majesty, don’t you need help?”

 

Luo Shen didn’t respond, and after a while, he called out weakly: “Chang’an, come in and clear things up.”

 

He really had no strength, so after weakly calling out, he picked up the ginger soup beside him, blowing on it to cool it down, and sipping it slowly.

 

Someone walked in, and Luo Shen had just finished drinking the ginger soup. He placed it on the table, then turned his head and met a pair of familiar eyes.

 

Luo Shen’s small mouth opened slightly: “Gu… Xingzhi? How did you come here?”

 

“I’ve been waiting outside for a long time without seeing Your Majesty come out.” Gu Xingzhi saw that Luo Shen’s complexion was still pale, but he could move, which eased his mind somewhat. “Your Majesty, I’m here to deliver the medicinal soup.”

 

Luo Shen’s eyelashes were still wet, his lowered brows and gentle appearance looked particularly obedient. As Gu Xingzhi spoke, his throat couldn’t help but roll.

 

“Oh, just let the palace servants bring it in, there’s no need for you to personally deliver it,” Luo Shen unconsciously grabbed his loosely fitted clothes. He always felt that if he stayed with Gu Xingzhi for a moment longer, he would be completely overwhelmed.

 

He paused for a moment, not seeing Gu Xingzhi’s movement, then asked, “Where’s the medicinal soup?”

 

“It’s outside.”

 

“Oh.”

 

Luo Shen hurried out and saw the medicinal soup on the table. He quickly picked it up and drank it in one go, his weak wrist trembling as he held the bowl, the fabric slipping off his shoulder as he moved. When he reached the last sip, he accidentally choked.

 

Gu Xingzhi hurried forward, took the bowl from his hand, and Luo Shen unconsciously grabbed his sleeve, burying his head in his chest and coughing.

 

As the coughing gradually subsided, Luo Shen breathed out slowly, his head rubbing against the fabric of Gu Xingzhi’s clothes, wiping away the tears that were forced out. At the same time, the feeling on his back became clearer.

 

“Your Majesty, are you feeling better?”

 

Luo Shen suddenly realized and quickly pushed away, stepping back two steps, then turned his head and couldn’t help but cough twice into his fist: “I… I’m much better.”

 

Gu Xingzhi looked a bit regretful: “I actually prepared some sweets…”

 

Luo Shen: “…”

 

With the reminder from Gu Xingzhi, Luo Shen also felt the bitterness in his mouth and couldn’t help but follow Gu Xingzhi’s movements.

 

He saw Gu Xingzhi take out a small box from the side of the table, opening it to reveal full of pitted honeyed sweets.

 

“Your Majesty, the medicine is bitter. Would you like some sweets?”

 

Luo Shen’s heart fluttered, he approached and picked one up, putting it in his mouth, instantly diluting the bitterness.

 

Gu Xingzhi tilted his head and asked him, “Your Majesty, is it sweet?”

 

“Sweet!” Luo Shen had just swallowed the candy and reached out to take another one, but his wrist was grabbed.

 

The next moment, a sweet kiss covered his lips.

 

One hand forcefully pressed the back of his head, their breaths intertwined, lips and tongues entangled. Luo Shen’s heart raced faster.

 

Another hand caressed his back, pressing him against his body. Luo Shen was kissed until he felt dizzy, his arms wrapping around the other’s neck.

 

At this moment, he felt a coolness on his shoulder as his clothes’ buttons were undone.

 

Luo Shen’s heart thumped heavily. When he came to his senses, he was already pinned against the wall.

 

Luo Shen’s voice unconsciously softened, but with resistance: “Gu Xingzhi…”

 

Gu Xingzhi stopped his actions just in time, his hot breath brushing against Luo Shen’s fair neck as he leaned on Luo Shen’s shoulder, sighing, “Your Majesty…”

 

Luo Shen felt relieved, thinking that Gu Xingzhi probably didn’t intend to continue.

 

He remembered Gu Xingzhi’s several confessions and felt a bit comforted. He placed a hand on the other’s shoulder: “What is it?”

 

“Your Majesty should know that my feelings for you are not just those of a subject to his ruler.”

 

The person in front of him trembled slightly, his body immediately tensing up.

 

“Gu… Gu Xingzhi, I’m the Emperor…” Although he was the emperor, his tone sounded weak, as if he was negotiating, lacking any threat.

 

Gu Xingzhi smiled, his voice hoarse as it passed over Luo Shen’s ear: “So, Your Majesty, be careful everywhere, lest you be devoured by me.”

 

He picked up Luo Shen and sent him to the bed.

 

Luo Shen immediately hid under the blanket, only revealing the back of his head to him.

 

Gu Xingzhi chuckled softly when he saw this, having teased him for so long, it was time to talk about business.

 

“Tonight, the Prince Qin’s people intruded into the palace and were taken away by me. Your Majesty, rest for now. Tomorrow, I will come to inquire about how to deal with it.”

 

With that said, he left decisively, while the person wrapped in the blanket blushed all over, his mind filled with the sweetness and entanglement from earlier.

 

He almost couldn’t sleep all night, every time he drifted off, he could dream of Gu Xingzhi’s figure, his words, everything.

 

It made him feel a bit mentally exhausted, dazed, and not very focused even during court sessions.

 

After the ministers reported the recent events and asked for his decision, they inquired about the matter of the Prince Qin.

 

Now that the Prince Qin has been missing for nearly half a month, and those sent to search for him have returned empty-handed.

 

The Prime Minister suggested, “Why not let Lord Gu go and try? He has been stationed outside the border for a long time and may discover clues that we cannot.”

 

“Yes, Lord Gu is upright, young as he is to hold such a high position, his strength is extraordinary, he can surely handle this task!”

 

“Lord Gu still remembers that affection from the past, his character is impeccable!”

 

Luo Shen: “…”

 

He thought to himself, “Give me a break. You’ve always been calling me useless.”

 

Recalling what happened last night, his face flushed.

 

“Lord Gu, what do you think?”

 

Gu Xingzhi raised his eyes and met Luo Shen’s gaze. “I am willing to go.”

 

Oh, then I won’t tell you the clues.

 

Luo Shen pouted and gave a perfunctory response.

 

After the court session, Gu Xingzhi wanted to stop someone to ask about Prince Qin’s situation, but he couldn’t find him. Instead, he only saw Chang’an, who was there to confuse people.

 

Chang’an stood at the palace gate with his arms crossed, smugly saying, “His Majesty has returned to the sleeping quarters to rest. Please do not disturb him, Lord Gu.”

 

Gu Xingzhi: “…”

 

Back in the sleeping quarters, Luo Shen immediately climbed into bed.

 

He didn’t want to tell Gu Xingzhi about the clues regarding Prince Qin, especially since he was pushed into the pool by a man in black last night. He was holding a grudge.

 

But he was also afraid that if Gu Xingzhi came, he might be persuaded to reveal the clues, so he decided to pretend to be asleep.

 

Unexpectedly, as he pretended, he actually fell asleep.

 

The room was quiet, with a breeze blowing through. Suddenly, someone pushed the door open. He glanced around and saw Luo Shen lying on the bed.

 

Hearing the noise, Luo Shen opened his eyes, and the bed curtain swayed. Gu Xingzhi forcibly pushed him back into bed.

 

He panicked, “Gu… Gu Xingzhi, I am the emperor!”

 

“I know, Your Majesty is also my superior.”

 

Gu Xingzhi’s eyes were fiery with anger. With a flick of his long fingers, his clothes came off.

 

Luo Shen was frightened and hurriedly tried to push him away, but Gu Xingzhi’s strength was immense, and his resistance was as futile as a kitten kneading.

 

The bed gently swayed, and someone slowly pressed down after undressing.

 

Luo Shen abruptly opened his eyes. What he saw was the same ceiling as usual, with no Gu Xingzhi and no swaying bed curtain.

 

He panted, staring at the ceiling, unable to snap back to reality… It was just a dream.

 

But… why would he have such a dream?

 

Luo Shen propped himself up against the headboard. A certain face seemed to be swaying before his eyes.

 

He held his forehead and was about to call someone in when suddenly, his stomach churned.

 

—

 

The imperial physician withdrew his hand after taking the pulse, his expression turning serious.

 

Beside him, Chang’an looked worriedly at Luo Shen, who was still lying in bed, looking listless.

 

“Imperial physician, what on earth is going on? Could it be that the previous poison hasn’t been fully cleansed?”

 

The imperial physician shook his head, his expression still grave.

 

Chang’an became anxious, “If there’s something, please speak up!”

 

The imperial physician looked at Luo Shen, “Your Majesty, have you engaged in intimate relations in the past month?”

 

Suddenly being asked about this, Luo Shen’s face turned slightly red, and he asked weakly, “Does it… have anything to do with this?”

 

Seeing his expression, the imperial physician understood.

 

He had watched Luo Shen grow up and handled all his affairs. He had thought Luo Shen would live out his life this way, hoping he could marry and have a son.

 

Unexpectedly—

 

Everyone listening was stunned.

 

Chang’an’s voice trembled, “You… are you saying that His Majesty is… His Majesty is pregnant?”

 

As if to confirm the imperial physician’s diagnosis, Luo Shen, who hadn’t even had time to refute, felt another wave of nausea. Chang’an hurriedly grabbed the spittoon from the side, watching him vomit again.

 

Chang’an’s eyes were filled with despair, tears following. “I… I…”

 

He closed his eyes, “Otherwise, let’s call Changxin and have him beheaded!”

 

Luo Shen: “…”

 

He picked up the teacup next to him, rinsed his mouth, and asked the imperial physician, “Can it be aborted?”

 

The imperial physician shook his head gravely, “Your Majesty should be aware of the uniqueness of your body. Aborting the pregnancy carries immense risk, and even a slight mistake could be life-threatening. It is strongly advised against.”

 

“Then how… how…” Chang’an’s expression was on the verge of collapse, “How will it be born?”

 

The imperial physician glanced at Luo Shen, “Since Your Majesty can conceive, you can also give birth.”

 

He sighed, picked up his brush, and wrote a prescription, handing it to Chang’an, “Take one dose daily. Cease all other medications and prioritize the fetus. Do not act on your own accord!”

 

Chang’an’s hands trembled as he held the paper. He tried to steady himself as he escorted the imperial physician out. When he turned back, he accidentally dropped the paper.

 

He quickly picked it up and ran to Luo Shen’s side.

 

“Your Majesty,” Chang’an said worriedly, with a troubled expression, “Why don’t we just have him beheaded?”

 

Beheaded, to vent the anger!

 

Luo Shen placed one hand on his abdomen. Beheaded?

 

Then what would he do?

 

He stared blankly at his abdomen. The sudden news had left his mind in turmoil.

 

Should he be angry? If so, how should he vent his anger? If people found out that their emperor was a man who could get pregnant, what would he do?

 

He hadn’t even had time to prepare, and now this sudden—

 

Luo Shen was stunned, and tears began to fall.

 

Seeing this, Chang’an became even more anxious, “Your Majesty, please take care of your health!”

 

Luo Shen looked at Chang’an, who quickly tried to comfort him, “Don’t worry, Your Majesty. The imperial robe is thick; no one will notice.”

 

To reassure Luo Shen, Chang’an forced a smile, but his expression was quite ferocious. If Changxin were there, he would probably be scared into grabbing a knife.

 

Luo Shen looked at him, the corners of his mouth twitching, barely forming a smile, “It’s fine… Go tell Changqing to prepare for a banquet I will hold for him in half a month.”

 

Chang’an’s heart tightened. How could he not understand the meaning behind Luo Shen’s words?

 

But currently, what other option did they have?

 

He had no choice but to nod. Just as he was about to leave, he heard Luo Shen say, “Have Qin Feng take Luo Ming far away and try to keep Gu Xingzhi occupied for a month.”

 

“…”

 

Chang’an sighed.

 

That evening, Gu Xingzhi finally found an opportunity to come over for dinner, intending to ask about Prince Qin.

 

As soon as he entered the room, he saw Luo Shen sitting by the window reading a book, his face pale. It was the same book as before, but he hadn’t turned a single page.

 

Gu Xingzhi’s expression changed slightly. He stepped forward to speak, but the moment Luo Shen sensed him, he immediately closed the book and turned to smile at him, “I didn’t even notice you were here. How long have you been standing there?”

 

A strange feeling flashed in Gu Xingzhi’s heart, but seeing that Luo Shen seemed fine apart from his pale complexion, he said, “Not long.”

 

“Alright, let’s eat.” Luo Shen stood and walked to the table, and Gu Xingzhi followed.

 

For some reason, although Luo Shen seemed the same as usual, Gu Xingzhi felt that something was subtly different about him.

 

He swallowed and was about to ask if anything had happened recently.

 

But before he could speak, Luo Shen put down his chopsticks and walked into the inner room.

 

Seeing Gu Xingzhi’s puzzled expression, Chang’an closed the door to the inner room and coldly said, “Lord Gu, some things are better left alone.”

 

Gu Xingzhi furrowed his brows, but before long, Luo Shen returned from the inner room, acting as if nothing had happened, and sat down.

 

“Gu Xingzhi, this is where Prince Qin is located.” Luo Shen took out a note and handed it to Gu Xingzhi, “Bring Prince Qin back.”

 

“Yes,” Gu Xingzhi said, taking the note.

 

Luo Shen ate his meal with great elegance, chewing each bite of rice for a long time.

 

Not only that, but he also didn’t eat much before putting down his chopsticks.

 

Gu Xingzhi finally couldn’t help but ask, “Why isn’t Your Majesty eating?”

 

Luo Shen blinked, “Because I… I feel like I’ve gained some weight recently…”

 

Gu Xingzhi glanced at him, “Your Majesty is so thin; who said that?”

 

Luo Shen choked up; why did this man sound like he was ready to stand up for him?

 

He blinked blankly and his voice grew weaker, “I… I just feel… can’t I?”

 

Gu Xingzhi remained silent. He then used his chopsticks to place some meat into Luo Shen’s bowl, “Your Majesty is not fat.”

 

Luo Shen: “…”

 

He looked at the meat, unable to bring himself to eat it.

 

He quietly protested, “But I feel…”

 

Before he could finish, Gu Xingzhi sternly said, “Unless, I can’t carry Your Majesty anymore.”

 

Luo Shen fell silent, silently picking up his bowl and stuffing the food into his mouth.

 

Beside them, Chang’an watched Luo Shen struggle to eat and felt a pang of bitterness in his heart.

 

Although he had been very annoyed with Gu Xingzhi after hearing the news, he had to admit that only with Gu Xingzhi around did Luo Shen manage to eat a bit more, sparing them the constant worry about his aversion to food due to morning sickness.

 

Chang’an sighed and quietly left the room.

 

After the meal, Chang’an brought the medicine soup to cool, while Luo Shen returned to the window to continue reading.

 

Gu Xingzhi was about to go back to the study to handle official business, but just as he turned, he realized something.

 

He asked Luo Shen, “Your Majesty, I will go to fetch Prince Qin tomorrow.”

 

Luo Shen responded with a mere “Hmm” as he turned a page.

 

He seemed to have no reaction.

 

Gu Xingzhi had no choice but to continue, “Your Majesty, this trip will take five or six days, maybe half a month if things don’t go smoothly.”

 

Luo Shen’s fingers paused for a moment before he nodded, “You may go.”

 

“Your Majesty…”

 

Could it be that he didn’t want him to go?

 

Gu Xingzhi recalled being stopped by Chang’an when he went to ask for clues during the day and became more certain, “If Your Majesty is in a hurry, I will bring him back as quickly as possible.”

 

Luo Shen had been in a hurry, but now he said, “No need to rush, safety first.”

 

Seeing Luo Shen’s indifferent profile, Gu Xingzhi felt a stir in his heart, “Alright.”

 

The next morning, Gu Xingzhi mounted his horse and set off alone to Prince Qin’s location.

 

On the first day, he rented a boat and sailed north along the coast.

 

Luo Shen reopened the case of Magistrate Zhao, ordering a retrial.

 

On the fifth day, Gu Xingzhi reached the location mentioned on the note, only to find that the person had already left. At the same time, Qin Feng had left clues leading him to head northwest on land.

 

Luo Shen concluded the case as quickly as possible, releasing Qin Cheng and Zhao Xiaoling, and sent people to arrest Qin Huang.

 

On the thirteenth day, Gu Xingzhi arrived in the northwest, finally finding Luo Ming at a local mining site.

 

Luo Ming had been sold to the mine for only three days and was being scolded for refusing to work.

 

When Gu Xingzhi arrived, Luo Ming was just about to strike someone with a sharp stone. Suddenly, a gust of wind kicked up sand and pebbles, blinding everyone and causing them to cover their faces with their arms.

 

When the wind died down, they discovered that Luo Ming was gone.

 

“Gu! Xing! Zhi!” Luo Ming shouted in anger, slung over someone’s shoulder, “Put this prince down!”

 

“Your Highness, I have urgent matters to attend to. Please bear with me.”

 

“That’s what he said, but Gu Xingzhi’s actions were so rough that Luo Ming almost threw up from all the jolting.

 

At first, Luo Ming kept cursing, but later, he was too exhausted and started begging Gu Xingzhi for a sip of water.

 

Gu Xingzhi ignored him until they reached the stables, where he finally put Luo Ming down. ‘Innkeeper, give him some water.’

 

The innkeeper came out and saw someone lying on the ground, nearly dying of thirst. Startled, he quickly brought out some water.

 

‘And bring me another horse,’ Gu Xingzhi added. He had calculated the journey last night and figured that riding back would take about five days.

 

After drinking the water, Luo Ming finally looked somewhat alive. He clung to Gu Xingzhi’s leg and pleaded, ‘No! I’m still hungry!’

 

He had been jolted so much that everything in his stomach had been thrown up!

 

Gu Xingzhi paused, looking down with a cold gaze, and furrowed his brows.

 

He had forgotten to factor in this person. Including him, it would take ten days to return.

 

Before leaving, Gu Xingzhi had thought it would be a simple task, but when he arrived and found no one, he realized he had fallen into a trap.

 

Why had Luo Shen sent him away?

 

Gu Xingzhi couldn’t figure it out and could only hurry to find the person and return.

 

The innkeeper brought out a bag of dry rations and handed it to Gu Xingzhi with a smile. ‘Are you two heading back to the capital?’

 

Gu Xingzhi nodded, but before he could react, the dry rations were snatched away by Luo Ming.

 

As he ate the bread, Luo Ming asked, ‘Indeed, we are heading back. Innkeeper, has anything happened in the capital recently?’

 

The innkeeper smiled broadly. ‘Don’t you know? The emperor recently recognized a sworn brother and is throwing a grand banquet for him. Anyone in the capital can now get free rice!’

 

Both of their faces changed.

 

Gu Xingzhi’s gaze turned cold as he looked at Luo Ming.

 

So, this was why Luo Shen had sent him away?

 

Gu Xingzhi forced a smile and asked, ‘Your Highness, do you want to stay here a bit longer?’

 

Luo Ming shuddered. Seeing Gu Xingzhi’s expression, he had a bizarre feeling that if he nodded, he would immediately lose his head.

 

He quickly scrambled up from the ground. ‘Innkeeper, another horse, one for each of us.’

 

‘Right away!’ The innkeeper brought two horses, accepted the payment, and also gave them a bag of dry rations and water. ‘Fate has brought us together; safe travels to you both!’

 

Three days later.

 

Luo Shen watched as Changqing tried on clothes. His face was still pale, and his voice was very faint. ‘Changqing, did you leave the palace today?’

 

Changqing’s raised lips froze. He glanced at Luo Shen secretly and said, holding his clothes, ‘Your subject… just went out to buy some things.’

 

‘If there is anything lacking in the palace, you can have the palace attendants procure it.’ He looked up, his gaze somewhat sharp. ‘But meeting privately with officials, don’t you think that’s inappropriate?’

 

Changqing’s face changed. He had thought that given Luo Shen’s sickly appearance, he wouldn’t live much longer, which was why he had early on accepted him. He hadn’t expected Luo Shen to still care about him communicating with officials.

 

But for now, the throne was still Luo Shen’s.

 

Changqing’s brows furrowed in displeasure. ‘Your Majesty, your subject dares not do so again.’

 

Changqing admitted his mistake quickly. Luo Shen remained silent for a moment. With the banquet approaching, it was not the right time to punish someone, so he said, ‘Although the late emperor instructed me to pass the throne to you, you should understand who the people recognize.’

 

Even though the throne was to be given to him, the real power remained in Luo Shen’s hands.

 

He held the imperial seal, and Gu Xingzhi held the military power. The two of them were allies, making Changqing essentially a puppet emperor, meant to appease the people and maintain balance while protecting Luo Shen’s position.

 

His meaning was clear: Changqing had only the title. If he behaved, he would have everything he needed, but if he tried to play tricks, the imperial edict could be revoked at any moment.

 

Changqing’s face turned pale. Initially, he had agreed to this arrangement because Luo Shen seemed weak and easy to manipulate.

 

But now… why was it different?

 

‘Changqing, do you understand?’ Luo Shen asked.”

 

Changqing bit his thin lip until he tasted blood. He snapped back to reality and bowed humbly, “Your humble brother naturally understands.”

 

“Good.” Luo Shen stood up. The banquet was the next day, and he had many preparations to make. He had no time to watch Changqing’s little schemes.

 

But Gu Xingzhi…

 

He clenched his sleeve, along with the letter hidden inside.

 

Gu Xingzhi would return soon—

 

He still couldn’t figure out how to explain everything to him.

 

The following evening, the banquet began and the guests took their seats.

 

On the stage, singing and dancing ensued. At a side seat, Changqing, dressed in an elaborate palace robe, scanned the crowd.

 

One, two, three…

 

Almost all the officials were present, except for Luo Ming and Gu Xingzhi.

 

He remembered Gu Xingzhi, the son of the Great General of the State. Though young, he had achieved numerous military successes but was recalled to the capital by the former emperor’s decree, turning from a warrior to a civil servant. Despite holding the military seal, he had no troops in the palace.

 

Gu Xingzhi, full of ambition, wouldn’t be easily restrained by mere officials. With a bit of manipulation, he could make both sides harbor suspicions—

 

With the Gu family’s support, why would he fear the other officials not coming to him?

 

Changqing smiled and glanced at Luo Shen seated at the head of the table—

 

Though Luo Shen had a handsome appearance, a noble birth, and was favored by the former emperor, he was merely a figurehead without any real power.

 

The banquet was lively, with officials scrutinizing this newly emerged sworn brother and speculating about Luo Shen’s intentions.

 

After all, if Luo Shen didn’t reveal it, no one would know.

 

By making this public, wasn’t he just telling everyone that there was one more person who could potentially vie for the throne and threaten his life?

 

Moreover, during the banquet, the two had little interaction, like strangers, making people suspect that Luo Shen was being blackmailed—

 

They all turned to look at General Gu.

 

General Gu, drinking his wine, felt the stares and awkwardly put down his cup.

 

“What? Do you have something to ask?”

 

An official sitting near him asked, “Of course, it’s about this new Prince Ping. Did you know about him beforehand?”

 

General Gu glanced at Changqing and sighed.

 

He didn’t speak, but his reaction was telling.

 

The officials sighed along with him, and the same official asked, “In your opinion, who has the brighter future?”

 

General Gu’s expression shifted, and he glared at him, “Eat more, talk less!”

 

The officials, seeing this, sighed again.

 

Clearly, the throne was likely to change hands again.

 

Changqing, Luo Shen, or Luo Ming—each had their shortcomings, but if they had to choose, they’d still prefer Luo Shen as the legitimate heir.

 

But the former emperor’s intentions were baffling.

 

The officials looked troubled, resigning themselves to drink.

 

At the head seat, Luo Shen tried to endure, but the smell of the wine made him nauseous.

 

He had to get up and go outside for some fresh air.

 

Leaving the palace, he walked towards the rear garden.

 

The fresh air finally eased his discomfort.

 

Luo Shen stood there for a while, and suddenly, a certain person’s image flashed in his mind.

 

He froze, overwhelmed by a surge of longing.

 

Luo Shen panicked and hurried back inside.

 

However, not long after, as he walked through the narrow path by the red walls to return to the banquet hall, a sudden hand grabbed his shoulder and pushed him against the wall.

 

Luo Shen felt a sharp pain in his shoulder and, before he could react, the familiar scent enveloped him.

 

He widened his eyes in disbelief. “Gu… Gu Xingzhi? How did you get back so quickly—”

 

“Is Your Majesty wondering how I returned so quickly?” Gu Xingzhi’s eyes were dark. “I rode day and night without rest, changing five horses, with my heart full of thoughts for Your Majesty, worried about Your Majesty, fearing that you had been wronged or trapped by someone, rushing back as quickly as I could.”

 

He lowered his voice, filled with anger, and sneered, “So, could Your Majesty tell me, what is the meaning of today’s banquet?”

 

Luo Shen looked at him, his emotions mixed.

 

He moved his lips, and after a long moment, he finally spoke in a hoarse voice, “It was the former emperor’s decree.”

 

“Does Your Majesty know what consequences today’s banquet might have?” Gu Xingzhi was furious. Why make this public when no one knew about it? Did he truly dislike the throne as the rumors said?

 

If so, why did he accept it in the first place?!

 

Seeing him so angry, Luo Shen, who had been like a walking corpse these past days, finally felt something. He lowered his eyes, tiredly tugging at Gu Xingzhi’s sleeve.

 

“Since you’re back, why don’t you go eat something?”

 

“I won’t!” Gu Xingzhi was really angry, very angry!

 

He glared at this pitifully naive emperor, torn between pity and frustration.

 

Luo Shen couldn’t help but laugh, “Weren’t you tired from the journey?”

 

Gu Xingzhi stared at him, “I was.”

 

Luo Shen asked, “Didn’t you go without sleep?”

 

Gu Xingzhi continued to stare, “I did.”

 

“Then I…” Luo Shen’s smile widened, “Why don’t you rest in my dragon bed?”

 

Gu Xingzhi was stunned for a moment.

 

He looked directly at Luo Shen, swallowing hard, “Really?”

 

Luo Shen replied, “Only lying down, nothing else.”

 

Gu Xingzhi thought to himself, is that something you can control?

 

Luo Shen looked into his eyes, “Not going? Then forget it.”

 

“I’m going!” Gu Xingzhi quickly pulled him back, holding him tightly to prevent him from escaping. “But Your Majesty has to explain things to me.”

 

Luo Shen’s fingers trembled slightly as he gently hugged him back.

 

“Your Majesty, I am Your Majesty’s minister, not anyone else’s.”

 

Luo Shen replied, “…Okay.”

 

“I belong to Luo Shen.”

 

Luo Shen was taken aback.

 

Gu Xingzhi laughed, “I am addressing you by your given name directly, Your Majesty won’t sentence me to death, right?”

 

Luo Shen took a deep breath, feeling the urge to vomit again, and suppressed it with difficulty, “In private, you can.”

 

“Then, Your Majesty, you must do the same.”

 

“…Alright.”

 

Though they said this, the banquet couldn’t be avoided, and Luo Shen still had to return. 

 

He instructed Chang’an to lead Gu Xingzhi back to the sleeping quarters and lend him the bath, while he returned to the main seat, watching as the drunken guests either slumped over or were escorted out with a wave of his hand.

 

Just as Changqing was about to step forward to toast Luo Shen, General Gu suddenly called out, “Prince Ping.”

 

Changqing halted, turned around, and seeing it was General Gu, forced a smile. “General Gu, is there something you need?”

 

“Could I have a word with you in private?”

 

Changqing glanced at Luo Shen, who was preparing to leave, and then considered General Gu’s influence, finally agreeing.

 

On the way back to the palace, Luo Shen vomited twice more. Fortunately, he had some preserved plums in his pocket; sucking on one provided some relief.

 

Upon returning to his chambers, he spat out the plum pit and walked to the bed, where he found Gu Xingzhi reading some of his storybooks.

 

Hearing him return, Gu Xingzhi looked up, his expression serious. “Your Majesty, I have been waiting for you for a long time.”

 

Seeing the dark circles under his eyes, Luo Shen said, “I’ll take a bath first, then we can talk. You should rest.”

 

With that, he hurried to the bath.

 

The bathwater was still hot, with Gu Xingzhi’s dirt-stained clothes lying beside it. Luo Shen’s heart raced as he quickly washed up and emerged from the bath.

 

He wore only a thin inner garment and mentally rehearsed his confession about being Changnian as he approached the bed—

 

However, upon reaching the dragon bed, he found that the man who had resolutely insisted on staying awake until they had talked had already fallen into a deep sleep.

 

Luo Shen sighed helplessly, extinguished the candle, and climbed into bed, lying next to him.

 

As soon as he lay down, an arm wrapped around him, holding him tightly.

 

Startled, Luo Shen thought he had woken up, but after a moment with no further movement from Gu Xingzhi, he realized he was still asleep.

 

He tried to push the arm away, but Gu Xingzhi, as if afraid of losing him even in his sleep, held him tightly.

 

The room was pitch black, heightening his senses.

 

Turning his head, Luo Shen saw Gu Xingzhi’s face so close. Unable to resist, he leaned in and kissed him lightly.

 

To his surprise, Gu Xingzhi suddenly opened his eyes and said softly, “Your Majesty, you started it.”

 

Luo Shen was stunned, and in the next moment, Gu Xingzhi rolled on top of him.