Chapter 17: The Prince of Qin
Suyin's heart pounded erratically as she braced herself for the inevitable collision with the rocky precipice, her mind already resigned to the looming fate. Yet, to her bewilderment, the expected impact never came. Instead, a sensation of warmth enveloped her. "Hm?" With cautious uncertainty, Suyin pried her eyelids apart, greeted by the captivating sight of Qin Fuhua's features hovering above her.
In a breathtaking display of strength and agility, he cradled her in his arms, her head resting against the comforting solidity of his chest. With seemingly effortless grace, he descended to the ground below, navigating the treacherous descent with an ease that defied logic. As Suyin regained her bearings, her gaze swept over their surroundings, taking in the tranquil scenery that unfolded around them.
They found themselves nestled in a secluded alcove adjacent to a crystalline pond, its waters gently stirred by a cascade of water tumbling from the heights of the mountain.
The landscape bore the scars of past upheavals, evidenced by the jagged cliffs and scattered debris, yet amidst the rugged terrain, a serene oasis emerged, framed by verdant foliage and swaying grasses. "The flowers!" The urgency in Suyin's voice propelled her into action, disentangling herself from Qin Fuhua's embrace with a sense of purpose.
Determination was etched into every line of her features as she descended toward the shimmering surface of the pond, her resolve unyielding despite the obstacles that lay ahead.
With measured steps, she waded into the cool embrace of the water, her gaze fixed unwaveringly on her prize. Qin Fuhua observed the spectacle unfolding before him, a mixture of incredulity and begrudging admiration flickering across his countenance.
Did this woman possess no sense of shame?
Yet, as he beheld her unwavering determination and unbridled tenacity, a begrudging respect stirred within him, momentarily eclipsing his exasperation. His gaze lingered fleetingly upon her, tracing the graceful arc of her movements, before veering away in a semblance of indifference as she turned her attention back to him, her triumph evident in the triumphant gleam of her eyes.
As Suyin basked momentarily in the warmth of the sun's rays, a sense of urgency crept over her.
The sight of the distant cottage, nestled amidst the verdant landscape, beckoned to her with a silent plea—a silent plea she couldn't ignore.
With resolve hardening within her, she turned her attention toward the formidable cliff face, her heart hammering with a mixture of determination and apprehension.
Her gaze flickered involuntarily toward Qin Fuhua, a flush of embarrassment staining her cheeks as she recalled Qin Fuhua carrying her.
Despite her attempts to conceal her discomfort, a profound sense of gratitude welled within her, compelling her to express her thanks, however haltingly. "Um..."
Qin Fuhua stood beside her, his gaze fixed on the horizon, his rugged features shadowed by the fading light of dusk.
Though he didn't turn to meet her eyes, Suyin sensed the weight of his presence. Gratitude swelled within her, a familiar tide that ebbed and flowed with each instance he came to her rescue.
"Thanks," she murmured, her voice tinged with a mix of embarrassment and relief, memories of clinging onto him earlier still fresh in her mind.
Without him, she would've been lost, another casualty of fate's cruel whims. Yet, amidst the chaos that seemed to follow her relentlessly, Qin Fuhua always emerged, a steadfast beacon of her savior
Clutching the delicate blooms to her chest, Suyin felt the fragile petals brush against her skin, a tangible reminder of her mission.
With measured steps, she approached the edge of the cliff, a precipice that loomed above her like a silent sentinel.
"How am I going to get this to her now?" she whispered, her voice barely audible against the backdrop of nature's symphony. Her gaze shifted from the imposing cliff to the bouquet cradled in her hands, a vibrant burst of color against the backdrop of the rugged landscape.
She knew the little girl awaited, her pain a relentless companion that Suyin could not ignore. It would take hours to circumvent the treacherous terrain and return to the safety of the cottage where the child languished.
Though it pained her to admit, a hint of selfishness crept into her thoughts as she considered her options.
There was only one way to expedite her journey, to plead with Tienzheng for a swift return to the cottage. It was a selfish request, she knew, but in the face of a child's suffering, expedience outweighed propriety.
Suyin turned her head towards Qin Fuhua, her voice carrying a note of urgency. "Um... do you mind taking me back up to the cliff and then back to my place?" Her words rushed out, a plea tinged with apprehension. Qin Fuhua remained impassive, his gaze fixed on her, offering no immediate response. "Look," Suyin pressed on, her tone becoming more insistent, "I have someone who needs my help right now. I know I am not in the right place to ask for your help but-" "And what do I get in return?" Qin Fuhua's interruption was blunt, cutting through Suyin's train of thought with its unexpectedness. Suyin fell silent, caught off guard by his question. What did he mean by asking for something in return?
In her haste and desperation to find a solution, she hadn't considered the implications of her request. She had nothing tangible to offer, no bargaining chip to sway him with. "We'll deal with that later," she replied, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "Please, I just need to get back." The urgency in her words was palpable, a silent plea for understanding in the face of her predicament.
Qin Fuhua relented, albeit with an air of reluctance. With a swift motion, he scooped Suyin up once more, his powerful frame effortlessly lifting her from the ground. As he propelled them upwards, Suyin was awestruck by the sheer strength and agility displayed by Qin Fuhua.
The ground fell away beneath them, replaced by the expansive vista of the sky stretching endlessly in all directions. Despite her fear of heights, Suyin clung tightly to the bouquet of flowers pressed against her chest, her eyes squeezed shut in a desperate attempt to block out the dizzying expanse below. Through the rush of wind and the steady beat of Qin Fuhua's wings, Suyin felt his gaze upon her.
Unseen to her, his thoughts swirled with questions, his curiosity piqued by her unwavering dedication to a stranger. Yet, he remained silent as they soared across the landscape, weaving effortlessly through the dense foliage of the forest until the familiar silhouette of the cottage came into view. As they touched down on solid ground, Suyin's eyes fluttered open, her grip on the flowers loosening as she surveyed her surroundings. "We're here?" she queried, her voice tinged with relief. Before she could register his next move, Qin Fuhua abruptly released her, sending her tumbling to the ground with a yelp of surprise.
Suyin scrambled to her feet, her indignation rising as she nursed her bruised pride along with her sore bottom. With a glare shot in Qin Fuhua's direction, she hurried past him and into the comforting embrace of the cottage.
"Suyin!" The sound of Areum's voice greeted her, drawing her attention towards the frail figure of the child.
Suyin's heart clenched at the sight, her resolve strengthening in the face of the little girl's suffering. Chuhua's smile, though fleeting, mirrored the warmth of her welcome, tempered only by the pain that etched lines of discomfort across her features.
"I'll boil this and let you drink it," Suyin declared, her voice firm with determination as she made her way to the stove, the promise of relief simmering within the bubbling cauldron of water.
The rhythmic hiss of steam filled the room as she tended to the task at hand, her movements deft and purposeful. It took mere moments for the water to reach a rolling boil, and with practiced precision, Suyin poured the steaming liquid into a waiting cup, its contents imbued with the healing properties she hoped would ease Chuhua's suffering. "Here. Drink it," Suyin gently urged, assisting the child to sit up with a tender touch.
As Chuhua obediently accepted the cup, Suyin blew on the surface of the liquid, her breath mingling with the steam in a silent gesture of reassurance.
With each sip, Chuhua's face contorted in distaste at the bitterness of the medicine, yet she persevered, her determination mirrored in her unwavering compliance.
As the potent concoction took effect, Suyin remained by her side, a silent sentinel in the quiet sanctuary of the cottage. "Do you feel a little bit better now?" Suyin inquired, her voice infused with cautious optimism. "Mhm," Chuhua murmured, a faint smile gracing her lips. "I do not feel a lot of pain like I did before!" Her proclamation was a beacon of hope, a testament to the efficacy of Suyin's efforts in alleviating her suffering. Suddenly, the tranquility of the moment was shattered by the creak of the door swinging open, revealing Qin Fuhua standing at the threshold, his presence a silent interruption to the fragile peace that enveloped the room.
Suyin, Areum, and Chuhua turned their heads in unison, their gazes converging on the figure framed in the doorway.
Chuhua's recovery seemed to have infused her with newfound energy, her movements nimble and graceful as she bounded out of bed at the sight of Qin Fuhua. "Big Brother!" Chuhua's voice rang out with unrestrained joy, her delight palpable as she rushed towards him, arms outstretched in a gesture of affection. Qin Fuhua welcomed her embrace with open arms, his stoic demeanor softening into a paternal smile at the sight of his little sister's exuberance. "Brother?!" Suyin and Areum echoed simultaneously, their astonishment evident in their synchronized reaction.
Suyin couldn't help but feel a pang of surprise at the transformation that came over Qin Fuhua in that moment—a genuine, handsome smile gracing his features, casting him in a new light. It was a stark contrast to the stern facade he typically presented, a glimpse of the warmth hidden beneath the surface.
Yet, even as admiration flickered within her, Suyin couldn't shake the memory of his abrasive demeanor, a reminder of the complexities that lay beneath his cold exterior.
"Little Princess, what did we agree on?" Qin Fuhua's voice cut through the air, his tone measured yet firm as he addressed Chuhua.
The reminder of their earlier conversation drew a solemn nod from the young princess, her contrition evident in the downturn of her gaze. "I'm sorry, Big Brother. I didn't mean to go out this far," she confessed, her words tinged with remorse. "But they left my carriage, and I got a little too carried away." Suyin could only watch in bewilderment as the pieces of the puzzle slowly fell into place, each revelation adding another layer of complexity to the unfolding scene.
Who were they? What had transpired before their arrival? The questions swirled in her mind, a dizzying whirlwind of uncertainty. "I brought the carriage here. Go back home, okay?" Qin Fuhua's voice was gentle as he spoke to Chuhua, a quiet reassurance laced within his words. Weizhe stood by Qin Fuhua's side, watching the scene unfold. "Mhm!" Chuhua chirped in response, her gratitude overflowing as she turned to Suyin and Areum, enfolding them in a heartfelt embrace.
"Thank you for treating me! I wished you were the one treating me instead of those doctors!"
Her words were sincere, a testament to the bond that had formed between them in the short time they had spent together. "Thank you for taking care of the little Princess," Weizhe's words hung in the air, a testament to the unexpected turn of events that had unfolded before them. Dumbfounded, Suyin and Areum exchanged bewildered glances, their minds struggling to process the implications of the revelation.
Areum was the first to voice her confusion, her gaze lingering on Weizhe, who knelt before them in a gesture of deference. "Isn't that the Prince, and why is he kneeling?" Areum's words echoed Suyin's own thoughts, casting a shadow of doubt over the identity of the Weizhe before them. "I apologize, but it was my job to represent the Prince at the time. I am actually the right hand of the Prince, Weizhe," Werizhe confessed, his admission shattering the illusion of certainty that had cloaked their perceptions.
Areum and Suyin stood frozen in disbelief, their eyes widening like saucers as they beheld the unexpected sight before them. Then, as if conjured from a realm of surreal twists, the figure they had conversed with all along now stood before them, taking on a new form in the shifting shadows of revelation, the Prince of Qin.
"Tienzheng?!" Suyin exclaimed, her voice laced with a blend of astonishment and confusion, her eyes darting between Qin Fuhua and Weizhe. "My lady! Why do you address him so suddenly?"
Areum interjected urgently, her words a hushed urgency.
"He is not Tienzheng! That's the Prince!" In the dimly lit chamber, where shadows danced with secrets and whispers, Qin Fuhua, adorned in regal attire, regarded Suyin with a calm demeanor, his gaze a tranquil pool concealing depths of mystery.
"Who is this person?" he inquired, his tone measured, betraying no hint of recognition. Though the name went unacknowledged by Fuhua, Suyin felt an unwavering conviction grip her soul, tethering her to the truth she could not deny.
With every fiber of her being, she knew without doubt that the man before her was Tienzheng, the scholar, regardless of the veils of deception that draped his form.
"I was thinking about letting you linger for a couple of days here," Qin Fuhua's voice sliced through the air, its tone reverting to the icy chill that seemed to define him.
Areum's grip tightened on Suyin's sleeve, a silent plea for reassurance in the face of impending uncertainty. "But your administration of an unknown concoction demands immediate attention," he continued, his words carrying the weight of authority and suspicion intertwined. "You shall accompany me." Suyin felt a pang of apprehension claw at her insides as she exchanged a fleeting glance with Areum, whose eyes mirrored her own unease. "Will you be in trouble?" Areum's voice was a barely audible whisper, filled with concern as she sought to offer what solace she could amidst the encroaching storm. Suyin shook her head gently, her lips forming a reassuring smile tinged with resignation.
"Just take care of the house," she murmured softly, her words a fragile shield against the impending tempest.
If only she had known the true identity of the child she had tended to, she would have treaded with caution against unforeseen consequences.
In the recesses of her mind, Suyin contemplated the historical precedents that underscored the gravity of her situation. She understood all too well the delicate balance of power that defined the dynamics between royal families and their subjects. In eras past, the corridors of palaces had echoed with whispers of caution and fear, where the slightest misstep could lead to dire consequences.
The omnipotence of monarchs was both a shield and a sword, capable of shielding their people from harm or wielding authority to execute judgment with swift and merciless precision. As Suyin ventured forth with measured resolve, she couldn't shake the disconcerting contrast between the warmth Qin Fuhua exuded in Chuhua's presence and the chilling detachment that now enveloped him like an icy shroud.
His countenance remained stoically composed, yet his eyes betrayed a frigidity that sent shivers down her spine, reminding her of the perilous tightrope she now traversed.
Though her heart pounded with trepidation, she cast a reassuring glance at Areum, offering solace in the face of uncertainty. "I will be fine," she whispered.
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Suyin and Fuhua found themselves seated within the confines of the carriage, an atmosphere laden with unspoken tension enveloping them like a thick fog.
The dim interior was illuminated only by the faint glow filtering through the translucent silk curtains, casting soft shadows upon their faces.
Suyin, her curiosity piqued, stole glances at Fuhua, her gaze lingering on his profile as he remained fixed on the passing scenery outside, his features partially obscured by the diaphanous fabric. Questions swirled in Suyin's mind like restless spirits. Why was he a Prince and not a scholar? Was his royal title merely a facade, concealing a deeper truth? Doubt gnawed at her, casting shadows of uncertainty over her thoughts. "Tienzheng," she ventured, the name feeling foreign on her tongue. Fuhua's attention remained transfixed on the world beyond the carriage window, his reluctance to meet her gaze palpable. Was it the name that kept him distant?
"Prince," Suyin persisted, her voice a whisper in the stifling air. "Finding out names will not work," Fuhua replied, his voice carrying a weight of resignation.
Suyin's heart sank at his response, her frustration mounting. She longed to peel back the layers of his mystery, to uncover the truth hidden beneath his royal facade. It struck her as peculiar that Areum had not recognized him as Tienzheng either, leaving Suyin to grapple with the unsettling realization that she alone seemed to see through his carefully crafted identity. "Isn't that who you are?" Suyin pressed, her tone tinged with a hint of defiance.
Fuhua remained steadfast, his refusal to acknowledge her gaze stirring a storm of emotions within her. How could she have forgotten the prickly demeanor that defined him? "Why bring me into this?" she voiced her thoughts, her frustration seeping into her words like venom. "Because if anything befalls my sister, the responsibility falls squarely on your shoulders," Fuhua replied without hesitation, his words cutting through the air like a sharpened blade. "And there are matters that require your attention alone," he added, his tone brooking no argument.
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The remainder of the journey unfolded in a shroud of silence, the weight of the unspoken hanging heavily in the air. Suyin's initial intrigue waned, giving way to a dull apathy towards the presence of the Prince beside her.
As the rhythmic clatter of hooves on cobblestones lulled her into a drowsy state, she surrendered to the embrace of sleep, her head drooping against the carriage wall as the world outside blurred into oblivion. Her awakening was gentle, the gentle nudge of consciousness stirring her from her slumber. Blinking groggily, she lifted her head, momentarily disoriented by her surroundings.
It took a fleeting moment for her to register the presence of Qin Fuhua still seated beside her, his stoic form a silent sentinel in the dimly lit carriage. "Where are we?" Suyin's voice was tinged with confusion as she peered out of the window, her eyes alighting upon a scene of breathtaking beauty.
The sight that greeted her was a symphony of architectural elegance, the concrete bricks beneath her feet and the walls adorned in rich hues of velvet red, black, and gold, a stark contrast to the drabness of Yuewei's streets.
With a sense of wonder, she pushed aside the silken curtain that veiled the carriage window, craning her neck to catch a better glimpse of her surroundings. The building before her stood as a testament to opulence and grandeur, its intricate design a testament to the wealth and power that permeated its walls. Suyin found herself entranced by the complexity of it all, marveling at the sight before her. "Your Highness, we have arrived," a familiar voice broke through her reverie, the words snapping her back to reality.
Suyin turned to see Qin Fuhua, his countenance marred by a scowl as her presence obstructed his path.
With a curt shove, he brushed past her, his impatience palpable as he exited the carriage. "Hey!" Suyin protested, hastily following in Fuhua's wake as she stepped out onto solid ground.
Standing before them was none other than Weizhe, Fuhua's trusted confidant.
"The Prince?" Suyin's words hung in the air, a reflexive acknowledgment born from their initial encounter with Wansun, the memory coloring her perception of Qin Fuhua. Fuhua's response was swift, a glower darkening his features as he cast an ominous glare in Suyin's direction before striding purposefully into the grand entrance of his home, leaving her standing in his wake. "I apologize, young miss," Weizhe's voice broke through the tension, his tone gentle yet firm. "But I am not the Prince. Please refrain from addressing me as such unless explicitly instructed to do so. It is imperative that you recognize the Prince as the individual who accompanied you just now," he explained before following his master inside. Suyin's lips curled into a sarcastic expression, a silent protest against the notion of bestowing the title of Prince upon Qin Fuhua.
Yet, begrudgingly, she understood the necessity of complying with Weizhe's request. With a resigned sigh, she stepped across the threshold of the manor, her eyes widening in awe at the sheer magnificence that surrounded her. Compared to Wansun's humble abode, Fuhua's residence was a testament to extravagance and opulence. The sprawling estate boasted architectural grandeur, with ornate vases adorning the columns and the building's façade adorned in shimmering shades of gold and silver.
Every detail seemed meticulously crafted, a reflection of the prestigious title that Qin Fuhua bore. It was a world apart from the simplicity of Yuewei, a stark reminder of the stark divide between royalty and commoners.
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Suyin trailed behind Wansun, her footsteps softly echoing against the polished surface of the long red bridge that stretched gracefully over the tranquil waters. The vibrant hue of the bridge's crimson arches contrasted harmoniously with the serene blues and greens of the surrounding landscape.
As they approached Qin Fuhua's secluded courtyard, Suyin couldn't help but be mesmerized by the meticulous care evident in every detail. The body of water encircling the courtyard sparkled under the sun's gentle caress, its surface mirroring the azure sky above.
Amongst the shimmering ripples, colorful koi fish glided gracefully, their movements synchronized like a mesmerizing dance. Some of the fish darted playfully beneath the broad leaves of lotus plants, adding a touch of mystery to the idyllic scene.
Above, birds chirped melodiously, perched on the ornate edges of the bridge, their vibrant plumage a vibrant contrast against the verdant backdrop.
Following Wansun through the ornate gates, Suyin stepped into a verdant oasis.
The vast expanse of lush greenery unfolded before her, a testament to the meticulous landscaping that graced Qin Fuhua's domain. Delicate patterns adorned exquisite furniture, their black and gold hues adding an air of opulence to the surroundings.
Yet, amidst the grandeur, an unsettling absence lingered—the conspicuous absence of trees and flowers, leaving only the dark, untamed grass to carpet the grounds. As they entered Qin Fuhua's pavilion, nestled eastward by the pure waters that reflected the boundless sky, Suyin's gaze was drawn to the prince's serene countenance.
With leisurely grace, he lifted a delicate porcelain teacup to his lips, the fragrant steam wafting upward as he savored the brew.
His left hand, adorned with intricate jade rings, deftly guided a brush across the parchment, each stroke of calligraphy a testament to his refined skill. "Your Highness," Wansun's voice reverberated respectfully, punctuating the tranquil ambiance as he knelt before Qin Fuhua, hands clasped in deference.
Beside him, Suyin stood silently, her gaze unwavering as she observed the prince's furrowed brow. With a gracious nod, Qin Fuhua motioned for Wansun to rise, his piercing gaze shifting to Suyin, inviting her forward. "Go sit on the chair," Wansun's soft command broke the stillness, guiding Suyin towards the intricately carved seat placed before the prince, where she would await his judgment.
Suyin's silent inquiry hung in the air, a whisper of uncertainty amidst the weighty atmosphere of the pavilion. The burden of her actions weighed heavily upon her, a leaden weight that seemed to drag her down further with each passing moment.
She had traversed a path fraught with peril, treading the fine line between loyalty and betrayal, guided by the desperate hope that her actions would not be in vain. The journey to this moment had been fraught with apprehension.
As she administered the medicine to the Princess, doubts gnawed at her conscience like relentless vipers, coiling around her resolve with each furtive glance cast over her shoulder.
Would her actions bring about the desired outcome of healing her, or would they condemn her to the merciless judgment of fate? Suyin's faith wavered as she contemplated the consequences of her actions. The medicine she had administered was intended to heal her temporarily, but to ensure it really worked for the Princess was still uncertain.
Yet, in her desperation, she had clung to the slimmest thread of hope, praying fervently to the gods for absolution from the impending storm. But now, as she sat before the enigmatic figure of Qin Fuhua, the weight of her actions bore down upon her with suffocating intensity. The Prince's reputation preceded him—a man of unyielding resolve, whose wrath knew no bounds.
To cross him was to court disaster, a fate that few dared to contemplate. As Suyin lowered herself onto the ornate chair, she braced herself for the inevitable reckoning that awaited her. With a trembling breath, she dared to offer a silent plea for mercy, her lips forming a silent prayer to the heavens above. And then, in a moment of desperation, she found herself invoking a gesture of supplication, her fingers tracing the shape of a cross in the air.
"I'm sorry if I did anything wrong, Prince!" she cried out, her voice tinged with desperation and fear. But Qin Fuhua remained unmoved, his gaze piercing in its intensity as he observed her with a detached air.
Beside him, Wansun's disapproving shake of the head served as a silent admonishment, a reminder of the precariousness of her position. "How do you know that I'm Tienzheng?" Qin Fuhua's inquiry cut through the tense silence, drawing Suyin's startled gaze. Her confusion was palpable as she struggled to comprehend the implications of his question.
"Huh?" she stammered, caught off guard by his unexpected line of inquiry. But Qin Fuhua's patience wore thin, his tone laced with a palpable edge of frustration. "I'm not going to repeat myself again," he snapped, the force of his words a stark reminder of the consequences of defiance. Suyin's mind raced, grappling with the gravity of the situation.
Why did he seek confirmation of his identity as Yi Tienzheng? The answer seemed obvious, yet she hesitated to voice her thoughts, wary of inviting further scrutiny upon herself. "It's obvious, don't you think so?" she ventured tentatively, her voice betraying a note of uncertainty as she tilted her head in confusion. Qin Fuhua's response was swift and unexpected. Drawing closer to her with an intensity that sent a shiver down her spine, he regarded her with an inscrutable gaze.
Instinctively, Suyin recoiled, her movements instinctive as she sought to evade his penetrating stare. But then, with a deftness born of practiced skill, Qin Fuhua concealed his features behind a mask, his true identity once again shrouded in mystery. Now wearing his identity as "Yi Tienzheng."
Turning back to face Suyin, he issued a final challenge, his voice tinged with an air of quiet authority. "Are you sure?" he pressed, his gaze unwavering as he awaited her response.
Suyin's irritation simmered beneath the surface, her frustration mounting with each passing moment.
If only Qin Fuhua knew the extent to which his relentless scrutiny grated on her nerves, perhaps he would think twice before subjecting her to further interrogation. "Well, duh," she retorted, her voice laced with a hint of sarcasm, "If no one knows that you're Tienzheng, then why would you be here then? Are you trying to pretend to be the Prince or something?" Her words dripped with exaggerated incredulity, her irritation palpable as she bristled at his probing questions. But her outburst was met with an unexpected response.
In a swift motion, Qin Fuhua seized her wrist with a grip that bordered on painful, his fingers digging into her flesh with a force that left her gasping in discomfort.
"Do you see no distinction?!" he demanded, his voice laced with a volatile mixture of frustration and anger. Suyin recoiled instinctively, a sharp intake of breath escaping her lips as she attempted to wrench her wrist free from his grasp.
But Qin Fuhua's grip remained unyielding, his fingers like vice-like claws that refused to release their hold.
"Ouch! No! Geez, that hurts! Stop it!" she protested, her voice tinged with a note of desperation as she struggled against his relentless grip. Beside them, Weizhe observed the exchange with a stoic expression, his features a mask of impassivity as he offered a silent commentary on the unfolding drama.
"Your Highness, it seems like she seems unaffected by 'it,'" he remarked, his tone neutral as he pointed out the apparent discrepancy in Suyin's reaction. At Qin Fuhua's begrudging release of her wrist, Suyin breathed a sigh of relief, her skin throbbing from the force of his grasp.
But her respite was short-lived, as the Prince pronounced his ominous decree.
"It seems like we have no choice but to make you stay then," he declared, his words hanging heavy in the air like an ominous cloud. Confusion clouded Suyin's features as she struggled to make sense of the situation.
What did it mean to "make her stay"? Was she to be held captive against her will, branded as a criminal for the simple act of knowing Qin Fuhua's true identity? The implications of his words sent a shiver down her spine, her unease mounting with each passing moment. "What does that have to do with the little Princess?" she demanded, her frustration boiling over as she sought answers amidst the chaos of the unfolding drama.
"Miss, it seems like the Qipian Mianju didn't work on you," Wansun lowered his head. "Qin Fuhua wanted to test you to see whether or not it worked, but it appears like it has no impact on you."
As Wansun's explanation sank in, Suyin's mind whirled with newfound understanding. The realization sent a chill down her spine, casting a shadow of unease over her newfound clarity.
"This person is not Tienzheng, but rather, the real Prince of Qin: Qin Fuhua." Wansun bowed to Suyin, gripping his hands. "I beg that you will no longer call the Prince Tienzheng unless ordered to do so by me or him. It will only draw danger for you to call him that name."
With a solemn nod, she acknowledged Wansun's words, her gaze flickering briefly towards Qin Fuhua, who remained an enigmatic figure by the water's edge.
"But... if I stay..." she began tentatively, her voice trailing off as she struggled to comprehend the implications of her newfound predicament. Weizhe wasted no time in addressing her concerns, his tone grave as he outlined the terms of her confinement.
"You are responsible for the little Princess and hold a life-threatening factor of the Prince's identity," he explained, his words laden with a sense of urgency. "You will be under our supervision and responsibility from now on." The weight of his words settled heavily upon Suyin's shoulders, a stark reminder of the gravity of her situation. She was now bound by duty and secrecy, her every move scrutinized under the watchful gaze of those who held her fate in their hands.
"Take it as you owe me, now," declared Qin Fuhua, his voice carrying the weight of unspoken histories and unseen burdens. Suyin turned to look at Qin Fuhua, the flickering sunlight casting shadows across his weathered features.
His eyes, fixed on the tranquil surface of the water, seemed to hold secrets untold, as he modestly attended to the whole conversation, nodding his head with a subtle grace that belied the turmoil within. "Um," Suyin murmured, her mind racing with questions and concerns. She couldn't shake the pressing need to know how Chuhua was faring during their stay.
It was more than mere curiosity; it was a deep-rooted determination to uncover the truth behind the Princess's ailment and find a way to heal her. The thought of leaving without understanding the child's reaction to the medicine she had administered gnawed at Suyin's conscience. But amidst her internal turmoil, something caught Suyin's attention—a subtle detail that hinted at a deeper mystery.
As she observed Qin Fuhua's form, her gaze lingered on his back, where the absence of his usual cloak revealed a telltale sign: dried blood, staining his right sleeve. What had happened to Qin Fuhua? The question lingered, unspoken yet palpable in the air, as she contemplated the implications of his injury.
Was it a consequence of the same perilous encounter that had nearly claimed her own life, sending her tumbling from the cliff's edge?
CREATORS' THOUGHTS 
Aeriesu
Aeriesu Thanks for reading and supporting me! <3 Thanks to all the old and new readers for commenting and always supporting me at the side! I'm still trying to fix the power stone issue and hopefully, it'll be fixed soon (I hope T_T). This is a pretty long chapter since I tried to put everything into one. Hope you enjoy! <3
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