"Rise, and in the future, if you dare to speak ill of your sister again, be careful of the family law." Lu Nianxin finally stood up, looking at Yue Fanchenâs panda-like black eyes, and couldnât help but laugh again.
"Mother, rest assured, I wonât dare anymore." Yue Fanchen got up, looking as disheveled as possible, but his eyes were filled with warmth and smiled.
"Back then, when I learned your fatherâs identity, your father and mother were deeply in love, inseparable. Knowing your motherâs outwardly gentle but inwardly firm nature, I didnât dare forcibly separate them. However, your uncle had a big argument with your mother over this, and in anger, she left for distant lands, eventually marrying your father.
You know the grudge between An Yun and the Shang Yue Countries without me saying more. Fearing the Mu Family would implicate your mother, this matter was kept secret. It was said externally that your mother was chosen as a disciple by worldly masters during her travels. Even on your parentâs wedding day, I only watched from afar and said a few words to Mu Beichen before returning to Shang Yue. Over the years, it must have been hard on you and your mother." Lu Nianxin continued, still lingering resentment while mentioning Mu Beichen.
"Actually, we have been doing well all these years. Though called exile, my father, as City Lord, was not challenged by anyone. I was unruly from a young age, and even earned the title of Heishi Cityâs First Playboy." Han Yan noticed her grandmotherâs guilt and comforted her.
Indeed, not only the First Playboy, but also carrying titles like Mu the spendthrift, Mu Siyi, among others, though these she was too embarrassed to mention.
"Yes, I know, I know. Although Mu Beichen was a bit of a scoundrel, his son fared well. Fan Ling has not suffered through these years, and I am aware of this." Lu Nianxin wiped the corner of her eye, speaking with relief but unable to dispel resentments toward Mu Beichen.
"By the way, I have a brother, but unfortunately heâs been traveling all along. Otherwise, Iâd have brought him along this time." Han Yan remarked.
"Iâve seen Han Feng, your mischievous brother, once. His master is an old acquaintance of mine, and I even sent him some Elixirs as gifts. Iâve heard heâs improved greatly recently." Lu Nianxin said with a smiling expression, showing satisfaction with her grandson.
Han Yan, who was initially worried whether Mu Hanfeng could manage alone, felt relieved upon hearing this.
While her grandmotherâs actual strength remains unknown, the people she associates with surely arenât ordinary. Mu Hanfeng, having such a prestigious master and her care, might bring her a pleasant surprise next time they meet.
"Itâs getting late. Iâve arranged for the palace feast, and your uncle will be here soon, you should meet him." Lu Nianxin glanced at the hour and said.
Soon, Han Yan met her motherâs elder brother, the current Emperor of ShangyueâYue Fanyi.
Yue Fanyi, in his prime years, bore resemblance to his mother, dressed in plain attire, carrying an air of majesty intertwined with scholarly grace.
"Are you Han Yan then, seeing you, it feels like seeing Fan Ling from childhood." Yue Fanyi affectionately spoke to Han Yan.
"Han Yan pays respect to Uncle Emperor." Han Yan pondered and said.
"What Uncle Emperor? Today is a family reunion, focusing on kinship rather than state affairs, just call me uncle." Yue Fanyi waved his hand with a hearty laugh.
Shangyue Country is known for its martial prowess, especially within the Royal Family, where every royal descendent undergoes travel and training during their youth. Yue Fanyi wasnât an exception, and thus lacks any kingly intimidation but maintains a free-spirited charm from cultivation.
"And me, call me uncle too." Yue Fanchen said shamelessly.
He was met with Lu Nianxinâs raised palm and Han Yanâs rolling eyes.
However, his interruption made the atmosphere more harmonious, dispelling any trace of unfamiliarity.
Soon, the table was set with food and drinks. Yue Fanyi completely set aside his sovereign status, serving dishes to Han Yan while inquiring about their familyâs situation over the years. Even though it was already discussed with Lu Nianxin, Han Yan didnât mind revisiting the topic again and selectively retold it.
Eating and reminiscing together brought them into a joyful harmony.
"Alas, back then, I acted impulsively, not considering your motherâs nature and argued with her. Otherwise, you wouldnât have faced so much hardship." Yue Fanyi regretfully said.
"You canât be blamed for that. Our grandfather sending us to Heishi City was due to my Divine Guardian Bloodline, and honestly, we didnât endure much in Heishi City." Han Yan replied.
Though Shangyue and An Yun were at odds, regarding her motherâs arranged marriage with Mu Family was a taboo for both countries. Han Yan understood their placement in Heishi City was mainly related to her Divine Guardian blood, not precisely her motherâs identity, hence she couldnât hold Yue Fanyi accountable.
Regarding the Divine Guardian issue, itâs not secret among royal families, thus no need to conceal. Moreover, she long discerned Yue Fanchen was also a descendant of the Divine Guardian with awakened bloodline.
"Although what you say is true, my impulsive decisions led to your motherâs departure in anger. Her wedding day came without anyone from us escorting her, making me truly at fault.
Mother and I agreed, given your motherâs stubbornness, she is unlikely to return to Shangyue. Her Princess title will pass to you, along with the Princess Mansion and Feudal Land." Yue Fanyi asserted.
"Isnât that improper?" Han Yan hesitated, realizing herself as An Yunâs citizen and becoming Shangyue Princess might cause a public uproar.
"Whatâs improper? An Yun and Shangyue reestablishing ties is urgent, honestly your identity also serves as a chance. Moreover, with Jiuyou Netherworld reappearing on the Continent and Heaven-Earth catastrophes approaching, such trifles are negligible." Yue Fanyi spoke decisively, leaving no room for dispute.
The majesty was invoked, making any rebuttal impossible.
"Alright then." Hearing his explanation, Han Yan felt obliged to accept.
"Your Majesty, Empress Dowager, Shoulder-to-Shoulder King Wu Tianxiong requests an audience outside the palace." An Inner Official announced entering the room.
"How dare he face us?" Yue Fanyi slightly furrowed his brows, showing anger.
As Yue Fanchen and Han Yan left Dingbian City, the city guardâs dispatch and battle report swiftly reached the Capital, making them aware of the Exotic Beastsâ attack on the city.
"He also claims that unless given an explanation about Wu Ziyue, he wonât let the matter go." The Inner Official, seeing the Emperorâs fury, cautiously added.
"What, Wu Ziyue as City Lord squandering the people is one thing, failing to defend the city another. To evade blame, he falsely accused our Royal descendant and even attempted silencing! Yet he dares demand accountability from us!" Yue Fanyi angrily rebuked.
(Today, another Chapter is added. Humbly requesting monthly and recommendation tickets, hands wide open, please support~~~)