The Double-Chapter 548 - 164 Rift

Princess Yongning’s betrothal to Eldest Young Master Li, bestowed by Emperor Hongxiao, stirred up quite a tempest in Yanjing City.

In the aristocratic families of Yanjing City, there were not a few who aspired to marry the princess, and even more who sought an alliance with the Li Family. However, with the imperial edict from Emperor Hongxiao, Princess Yongning could only marry Li Xian. Thus, those who had designs on Princess Yongning and those with intentions towards the Li Family were simultaneously left grasping at air.

Prince Cheng received the news with considerable dismay. Even though he often clashed with Emperor Hongxiao, he had never so blatantly set a trap. Shen Yurong was his man, and so was Li Xian. The matter between Princess Yongning and Shen Yurong might not be unknown to Li Xian. These two were now his right and left arms; he couldn’t afford discord within his own camp. When he learned from Empress Dowager Liu that there was no turning back, Prince Cheng invited Shen Yurong to his residence for a meeting.

After all, when it came to closeness and foundation, the Li Family was more essential. But Shen Yurong also possessed qualities that he admired. If this man could be put to good use in the future, it would be no bad thing. Therefore, as long as everything had not deteriorated beyond salvation, Prince Cheng still hoped Shen Yurong would serve him.

He invited Shen Yurong to take a seat, ordered someone to pour tea for Yurong, and said smilingly, "Yurong, I have called for you today to discuss the matter of Yongning."

Shen Yurong’s expression remained calm as he said, "This humble official understands."

Prince Cheng observed Shen Yurong, who even at this time, seemed undisturbed. His gentleness and composure were not unexpected features to capture Princess Yongning’s heart. Even Prince Cheng had to admit, the man had a memorable elegance. And as time went on and his official rank climbed higher, his aura became even more distinguished.

"This imperial marriage decree came out of nowhere; previously, my mother and the Empress Dowager had discussed your marriage to Yongning, but somehow, it ended up as Yongning and Li Xian’s affair. I know about your relationship with Yongning, and you understand, Yongning has always adored you..."

Shen Yurong remained silent.

"There are countless women in the world," Prince Cheng patted Shen Yurong’s shoulder, "You are meant for greater things; don’t get caught up in childish infatuations. Once you’ve made your mark, what kind of woman won’t be within reach?"

Prince Cheng could not offer Shen Yurong any consolation that there might be a twist in this marriage, because it was impossible. Similarly, he could not tell Shen Yurong to be patient, to wait for a while, to wait for Li Xian and Princess Yongning to part ways. The Li Family would never tolerate such a thing, and Li Zhongnan was still someone on whom Prince Cheng relied; he could only sacrifice Shen Yurong, who was not yet as essential as the Li Family, or promise to compensate him later.

"I know you are not a man of petty ambition; you have your own lofty vision. Therefore, better to focus single-mindedly on the greater cause with me than to fret over these trifles," Prince Cheng added, his gaze conveying a deeper meaning.

If Shen Yurong and Princess Yongning were truly in love, perhaps Prince Cheng would have consulted Li Zhongnan to find a compromise that would satisfy all. However, it was clear from the start that Shen Yurong did not genuinely love Princess Yongning. In truth, his sister, though charming and lovely, had a terrible temperament, which few men favored. Especially someone as inherently proud as Shen Yurong, it was even less likely he could ever sincerely love such a selfish woman as Princess Yongning.

His entanglement with Princess Yongning had been nothing more than a means to ascend the ranks. This could be seen from his indifference towards his former wife Xue Fangfei’s family. Yet, Prince Cheng found himself admiring Shen Yurong’s ruthless streak. Even if he did not end up with Princess Yongning, Prince Cheng was willing to make use of Shen Yurong’s cunning and talent.

Thus, he was making a promise to Shen Yurong: even if there was no marriage alliance with the Shen family, he would not wrong Shen Yurong.

Shen Yurong replied with a detached expression, "Your Highness’s generous affection is deeply appreciated by this servant."

He used the word "servant," indicating loyalty between monarch and subject. Hearing this, Prince Cheng was greatly pleased, and he laughed heartily, "You and I will certainly accomplish great things together in the future! Since that lad has deliberately provoked me, and has interfered with Yongning’s marriage, then I will grant his wish! In three months, I shall give him a big surprise!"

The laughter was reckless, echoing through the hall, unbridled; Shen Yurong bowed his head, and no one could see what he was thinking.