Concubine Xiao’s temper didn’t flare. The coldness in her expression receded and beckoned the servants at her side. “Drag this scum into prison! Without my order, what happened should not be leaked out. If anyone dare to say even half a word, be careful about your heads.”
“Yes, your Ladyship!”
Three eunuchs immediately grabbed Gao Bingze and dragged him outside.
“This small official beseeches your Ladyship! I didn’t do it! Please, I beg your ladyship to re-examine this-” He shouted increasingly bigger, but the sound became smaller as the distance grew.
Ji Muqing made herself small as her complexion paled with anxiety. She didn’t want to be thrown into prison. Her eyes were glued to Concubine Xiao who moved toward her. As she closed in, the fear in Ji Muqing multiplied. She reached her limit and collapsed, begging for mercy. “Your Ladyship, this lowly girl doesn’t want to be in jail. I beg your Ladyship to let me go.”
Unexpectedly, Concubine Xiao crouched in front of her and held her hand gently with eyes exuding benevolence. “Muqing. Come, get up.”
Ji Muqing was stupefied by Concubine Xiao’s actions. While trembling, she let Concubine Xiao help up get up and pulled her to a seat.
Following that, Concubine Xiao waved at her servants and ordered, “Go out.”
The servants curtsied before retreating to the outside, leaving San Lang to attend her mistress.
Concubine Xiao took out a handkerchief and wiped Ji Muqing’s tear-stained face. “This Imperial One knows there is nothing between you and him. You were harmed by others, but rest assured that I won’t let that matter be known. Treat it as if nothing has happened.”
Ji Muqing lit with hope. “Your Ladyship wants to say that I still can be the Crown Princess?”
Don’t even think about it!
Concubine Xiao shook her head. “You are no longer pure. The possibility of being the Crown Princess is forever barred to you.”
“Then…”
“This Imperial One feels sorry that you have encounter such misfortune.” She paused a bit, taking her time to pull out the jade hairpin in Ji Muqing’s hair. Then, she brushed Ji Muqing’s tangled hair before inserting the hairpin back. “You don’t need to attend the Crown Princess’ selection tomorrow. Since your body is no longer pure, it will be a great crime if it was to be discovered. This would implicate your big brothers.”
“Then, what should I do?” The worries were palpated in her voice.
“Don’t worry. This Imperial One had a plan to help you out.”
“A plan?” Ji Muqing didn’t understand.
Concubine Xiao’s red lips curled up. “Muqing, I am quite fond of you. As long as you said a few words. After the Crown Princess selection, this Imperial One will help you get the Emperor’s edict and have Prince Yi takes you in as his princess.”
As soon as the words were out, Ji Muqing’s fear melt into shock. Her body taunt and her eyes widened opened. “Your Ladyship, are you telling the truth?”
Concubine Xiao got up and lightly strutted away. “My words are held when said. Prince Yi will listen to me and marry you. No one will know about the matter that transpired yesterday.”
To be able to marry Jing Yi in addition to concealing her loss of chastity, the Heaven still blessed her! Ji Muqing was completely oblivious to the viciousness of Concubine Xiao’s trap. She was completely ensnared – voluntarily giving her the Crown Princess’ position. With a single scheme, Concubine Xiao successfully let her son marry Ji Muqing and roping in Ji Li and Ji Huan.
Ji Muqing pranced and tugged at Concubine Xiao’s sleeve. “Will that man say anything?” she asked anxiously.
Concubine Xiao’s phoenix eyes rose with chilliness. “This Imperial One guarantees you that he won’t have a chance to open his mouth.”