The Red Mole Prophecy : A Concubine's Rise (BL)

Chapter 29: Mixed Emotions

_Royal Study, Rong Xiang's Residence_

Rong Xiang sat motionless, his eyes fixed on the imperial decree. Bao, Zhi, and Steward Yan stood before him, their faces somber.

"Your Highness," Bao ventured, "the Emperor's decree... Do you have any instructions?"

Rong Xiang's gaze lifted. "What do you make of this, Bao? Why Minister Xu's family?"

Bao hesitated. "Perhaps it's due to Minister Xu's influence, Your Highness. His daughter, Xu Wanru, is renowned for her intelligence and beauty."

Zhi spoke up, "Isn't this advantageous for us, Your Highness?"

Steward Yan added, "The Emperor's sudden decision raises questions. What secrets lie behind this decree?"

Rong Xiang's brow furrowed. "I sense my father's motives are unclear. Why is he strengthening my position?"

Bao offered, "I think the Emperor distrusts the Rui clan, Your Highness. His sudden move hints at displeasure with the Second Prince. The Second Prince's party is in trouble. The Emperor seeks balance to ensure no single faction dominates the court."

Zhi nodded in agreement. "Yes, Your Highness, the tide is in our favor. We must act accordingly."

Rong Xiang's eyes narrowed. Zhi continued with a hint of excitement, "This marriage will strengthen our alliance. With the Xu family, Wu family, and your maternal uncle Li's support, our position is secured, Your Highness."

Bao added, "And with the Emperor's favor, Your Highness, our path to the throne is clearing. We must capitalize on this opportunity."

Rong Xiang gazed at his servants, amused by their enthusiasm. Bao, Zhi, and Steward Yan had been his most loyal companions, and their concern for him was genuine.

With a knowing glance, Rong Xiang spoke calmly, "I appreciate your zeal, but let's not overlook the challenges ahead. This opportunity brings troubles, and we must be prepared."

His servants nodded, their expressions turning serious.

Rong Xiang continued, "For now, focus on the king ceremony and my wedding with Xu Wanru. I demand perfection. Every detail must be flawless, without fault."

He paused, surveying the room.

"Decorate Zhongxiang Palace lavishly for the celebration. Ensure the entire capital is aware of the upcoming events. I want my royal wedding to be unforgettable, a spectacle that will be remembered for decades."

Bao bowed. "Your Highness, we will oversee everything personally."

Zhi added, "We will spare no expense, ensuring the ceremony and wedding are grand and majestic."

Steward Yan nodded. "The capital will buzz with excitement, and your wedding will be etched in history."

Rong Xiang's eyes narrowed. "See to it. I expect nothing less."

Then, with a decisive nod, Rong Xiang dismissed his servants. "Go, prepare everything. I'll review the arrangements personally."

Bao, Zhi, and Steward Yan bowed and departed, eager to begin preparations.

Rong Xiang remained, lost in thought. Marrying Xu Wanru would secure his position, but at what cost?

********

Concubine Luo's chamber, once a sanctuary of luxury, now felt suffocating. Her maid's whispered words had shattered her serenity: "The Emperor decrees His Highness, the Fourth Prince, shall marry Xu Wanru, the capital's renowned beauty."