28 Chapter 29

In the twilight years of the Li Dynasty, the political situation was treacherous and ever-shifting.

The newly appointed Prince of Pingnan, Yun Yin, was ruthless and decisive, sharing an exceptionally close friendship with the Crown Prince.

One day, a coup erupted in the palace. The Son of Heaven fell, and the Crown Prince was poisoned to death within the palace walls. Yun Yin led his troops to quell the rebellion, personally beheading the First Prince—who had murdered his father and brother—on the steps.

Thus, the throne stood empty.

Just as the world speculated that this Prince of a Different Surname, with his iron-fisted methods, would seize power for himself, Yun Yin entered the Imperial Palace.

Three days later, the seventeen-year-old New Emperor ascended the throne.

Beneath the imperial crown was a face of astonishing, delicate beauty.

~

Upon the new Emperor’s accession, the Prince of Pingnan stepped back to serve as Regent, providing guidance. The hundred officials were both relieved and concerned.

They were relieved that the new Emperor, though born in the Cold Palace, was indeed an Imperial Prince. Their concern lay in the fact that while the new Emperor possessed abundant beauty, he knew nothing of state affairs—a complete and utter waste.

Court Officials murmured, all claiming the Prince of Pingnan still harbored the ambitions of a wolf.

Some, however, disagreed.

~

Born in the Cold Palace, Li Zhaoyi had been bullied by servants and treated coldly by the Imperial Family since childhood.

When he was very young, Yun Yin saved his life. He remembered that person for seven years; Yun Yin was the best person in his heart. After being pushed onto the throne, he gave Yun Yin whatever he asked for.

When Yun Yin wanted him to be diligent, he painstakingly studied matters of state.

When Yun Yin wanted him to be obedient, he was as docile as a kitten.

When Yun Yin wanted him, he gave himself completely—even though Yun Yin never once uttered the word "like."

He merely wondered: why did Yun Yin choose him?

That was, until he overheard palace servants whispering among themselves. They said the new Emperor, just like the former Crown Prince, had a single Cinnabar Mole on his wrist.

Li Zhaoyi was suddenly enlightened.

This so-called favor was nothing more than a longing for an old acquaintance, a poor substitute for consolation.

~

Rumors of a romantic past between the former Crown Prince and the Regent spread through the streets and alleys. Yun Yin paid them no mind.

He had taken in a kitten. Beautiful, delicate, and full of trust in him. At first, he simply thought the kitten was well-behaved. As he kept it, true feelings began to stir.

Whatever Li Zhaoyi wanted, he gave.

When Li Zhaoyi was willful, he spoiled him.

He taught him the art of imperial rule and the way of checks and balances. He taught him how to slowly strip away his own power, willingly bowing his head as a subject, all in exchange for Li Zhaoyi’s lifelong dependence and affection.

And then, right under his watch, Li Zhaoyi ran away.

Yun Yin: ...

Excessive pampering must still be disciplined.