Chương 111: The Weight of Duty
[Long Palace, back at Shu Qin]
Qin Fuhua and Suyin had meticulously packed their belongings, preparing for their return to Shu Qin. As their carriage rumbled through the palace gates, the air seemed to buzz with the energy of their arrival.
The carriage came to a halt, and Qin Fuhua stepped out first, his presence commanding attention. He turned back, extending a hand to Suyin, guiding her down with a gentle but firm grip.
The onlookers—guards, servants, and maidens—watched in stunned silence. The cold-hearted Prince, known for his cold and distant nature, was displaying a tenderness that left them bewildered.
Hand in hand, Qin Fuhua and Suyin made their way through the grand corridors of the palace, heading towards the throne room to report the victory of his battle.
Each step echoed with the weight of unspoken truths and the silent strength of their bond. Suyin's heart pounded with worry as they approached the imposing doors. She glanced at Qin Fuhua, drawing courage from his steady presence.
As the doors swung open, revealing the opulent chamber, Suyin's gaze locked onto the King's face. It was a face she had seen many times, yet now it bore an unfamiliar weight. The truth she had uncovered gnawed at her, filling her with a sense of unease.
This man, seated on the throne, was not Qin Fuhua's father. The revelation twisted in her mind, a puzzle piece that didn't quite fit.
Qin Fuhua, sensing her hesitation, paused and turned to her, his eyes searching hers. Without a word, he raised his hand, offering it to her once more.
His gesture was a silent reassurance, a reminder that they faced this together. Suyin took a deep breath, her resolve hardening. She knew she couldn't falter now; Qin Fuhua needed her strength as much as she needed his.
Her fingers intertwined with his, and they approached the King, their steps synchronized. The weight of their shared journey and the battles they had fought together gave them an unspoken confidence. The throne room, with its gilded columns and tapestries, seemed to fade into the background as they stood united before the King.
"Your Highness." Qin Fuhua lowered his head, kneeling before the King and clasping his hands in respect.
Suyin followed suit, noticing that the Imperial Consort was absent. Despite this, she kept her head bowed, kneeling beside Qin Fuhua.
Qin Fuhua began his report, detailing the victory in battle and the critical role Suyin had played in their success. The King listened intently, a glimmer of surprise flickering in his eyes at the mention of Suyin's contributions. As he reclined on his grand golden throne, his expression shifted.
"I know that you were eager to secure this victory, my son, to marry this woman. Though capable and intelligent," the King sighed heavily. "There's a guest who arrived this morning, waiting for you. There is something I must discuss with you privately."
Qin Fuhua glanced at Suyin, who returned his gaze with a nod. She understood the urgency in the King's tone and knew this matter required Qin Fuhua's immediate attention.
"Yes, Your Highness," Qin Fuhua responded, rising to his feet.
He gave Suyin's hand a reassuring squeeze before following the King to the study room.
The King's study room was vast and opulent, adorned in a rich palette of red, black, and gold. The intricate carpet, the blue and white porcelain vases, and the meticulously carved wooden furniture spoke of centuries of history and power. Bookshelves lined the walls, brimming with ancient tomes and scrolls that chronicled the storied legacy of the Qin Clan.
As the King opened the door and entered the room, he placed his hands behind his back, a gesture of both authority and contemplation.
Qin Fuhua followed, his eyes sweeping over the familiar surroundings. The room had not changed since his childhood visits; it was a time capsule of memories, both daunting and nostalgic.
The King sighed heavily before turning to face his son. "Miss Han Suyin, she's quite capable, managing to rally support and persuade others to aid her voluntarily." He paused, his expression darkening. "I know you've been anticipating your wedding, but..."
Qin Fuhua stood silently, his gaze fixed on the King's back as he turned to face him fully.
"There have been negotiations about an arranged marriage before your return," the King continued, his voice laden with gravity. "The Zheng Clan, the people by the waters, have proposed an alliance through marriage. Their daughter is to be your bride."
The weight of the words hung heavily in the air. The King avoided meeting Qin Fuhua's eyes, unsure of how he would react to this unexpected and unwelcome news. "The daughter is currently resting in the guest courtyard," he added, his voice tinged with concern and uncertainty.
Qin Fuhua remained calm and collected, his demeanor reflecting the discipline and poise expected of a royal prince.
He had always known that such a moment might come, given the complexities of political alliances.
The Zheng Clan, a powerful village near the coast, had long been renowned for their shipbuilding and trade routes—assets that were highly coveted, especially amidst the ongoing war.
Qin Fuhua's eyes, sharp and cold, conveyed a chilling resolve as he faced the King. He understood the strategic value of the proposed marriage, but his heart remained steadfastly committed to Suyin.
The King, prioritizing political gain, had disregarded Qin Fuhua's wishes in favor of securing the Zheng Clan's alliance. Qin Fuhua turned away, his broad back now facing the King. "Return her to her people. I will not wed any woman other than Suyin."
The King's face darkened, fully anticipating his son's defiance, especially given Qin Fuhua's known desire to marry Suyin. He slammed his hand on the table, the sound echoing through the study. "My child! We cannot afford to offend the Zheng Clan! If word spreads that we have declined their offer, the King of the Long Clan will seize the opportunity!"
Qin Fuhua's voice remained steady and unyielding. "If so, then that is a problem we will have to address."
As he began to walk away, the King's anger flared. "You disobedient child! Come back here! She will not be going anywhere until this is resolved!" But Qin Fuhua did not stop. His determination to marry Suyin, despite the King's objections, fueled his steps as he left the study. The King watched him go, fury and frustration simmering beneath his composed exterior.
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Qin Fuhua returned to the throne hall, scanning the room and noticing that Suyin had already left for the Orange Blossom Courtyard.
"A guest has arrived!" the servant announced loudly.
The doors swung open to reveal a young woman. She was adorned in bright red and teal garments, her attire a stark contrast to those worn in the palace. Her hat, decorated with small pearl beads that dangled elegantly around her face, added to her regal appearance. Her robe was a single piece, matching the color of her hat and embellished with golden thread at the hem, signifying her high status within her clan as a Princess.
As she walked past Qin Fuhua, she stumbled, prompting him to step aside and observe her coldly as she fell to the ground.
Embarrassment and a flicker of frustration flashed in her eyes as she quickly looked up.
"I apologize for my behavior, my Lord," she said softly, her voice exuding elegance and grace. Her movements were as fluid and gentle as waves caressing the shore.
Qin Fuhua remained silent, ready to leave, but she spoke again, this time more assertively.
"Are you the Prince of Qin, by chance?" Her voice carried through the hall, catching his attention. He paused but did not turn around. "It's nice to meet you finally. I am Zheng An, the Princess of the Zheng Clan."
SUY NGHĨ CỦA NGƯỜI SÁNG TẠO 
Aeriesu
Aeriesu Hi my dear readers!
Sorry for such a delay. So many things occurred in real life that caused me to push back my writing. I know this one is a shorter chapter, but the next chapter will be long. I wanted to put up a chapter so that you readers don't have to wait for so long! I hope you all are doing well and staying hydrated and healthy! I'll see you in the next chapter! Thank you as always for being so patient and supporting my book!
With Love,
Ai.Su
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