When Shuo Jin took his step inside the palace that had large areas surrounded by walls and moats, he started recalling his joyful childhood days which were lively and vigorous filled with golden hours and enthusiasm. With each step he took, those memories were right before his eyes which were the priceless treasures of his heart.
But when he came back to reality, it hit him very hard. It was also rageful to see that those golden days cannot be made alive again, not because he cannot return to the past but it's because the beautiful part of that memory is missing. That beautiful part was Shuo Jin's beloved mother who was precious to him more than his life.
His gaze focused with clear motive on his mind, Shuo Jin moved towards the Imperial Clan Court as he knew the Emperor would be there.
"Why not greet the Great Emperor of Gua Empire first?" Shuo Jin smirked as he moved his feet towards the ornate staircase decorated with red carpets having a golden boarder on it.
As soon as he reached near the heavy brass laden door of the royal court, he didn't hesitate to open it. Shuo Jin opened the door with a loud bang that made each and everyone present in the court to shift their gaze at the person who dared to disturb His Majesty during his discussion.
Shuo Jin made his grand entry on the royal court, his eyes fixated on the Emperor he kept walking forward.
Gua Huang who was residing on his royal dragon throne was astonished to see such a brave man. But, it was even more shocking that he couldn't recognize his own son.
"Shuo Jin, the first prince of the Gua Empire greets the Emperor father." Shuo Jin bowed before the Emperor, lowering his head.
Hearing the name Shuo Jin, gossips and discussions filled the room. Gua Huang raised his one hand on air gesturing everyone to be quite. "Silence."
His one word emanated silence in the courtroom making everyone zip their mouth and ears open as the conversations they are going to hear now, will bring shiver to their spine.
"Why are you here?" Gua Huang cold voice cracked breaking the silence of the court.
Shuo Jin threw a chuckle, "Where do you expect me to go?" With his one eyebrows slightly raised, Shuo Jin claimed, "Of course, this palace also belongs to me."
"Long ago, you have already lost the position to claim yourself as the member of royal family." hollered the Emperor.
"Long ago, I have also already paid for the sins I hadn't committed." Shuo Jin replied sternly giving a mocking smile.
"You! You... unfilial boy... dare to speak!" Gua Huang roared as he pointed his finger to Shuo Jin.
"This unfilial ness of mine, I have inherited from you emperor father." Shuo Jin smirked slowly, making his hands down.
"Even the prisoner can roam wherever he wants after the punishment trial is ended. Here, my detention has already ended long ago." he haughtily spoke, spreading his arms on air. "I am aware that my title was seized from me but the fact that I am still the first prince of the Gua Empire, no one can ever change this." Shou Jin said as he tilted his head on his left, his gaze sharply falling on the Emperor.
Hearing him say those words, Gua Huang clutched his seat hardly with his hand as he was wordless. Then, Shuo Jin turned around and was about to leave the court, he shot sideways glance and coldly spoke, "From today, this prince will be residing here in this palace with all of you. So, stay away from me as much as you all can." He then threw his head back and howled with laughter before leaving the Imperial clan court.
The hint of caution Shuo Jin left on the court made each and everyone gulp their fear as his warning was eerily frightening for them. It was just an effortless warning, no one was still aware of the catastrophe Shuo Jin has brought with him.
No sooner had Shuo Jin left, the Emperor ended the discussion and ordered everyone present there to not let this event come out. "Whatever just happened, it should remain under this four walls."
Obeying His Imperial Majesty's command, everyone bowed before him as the Emperor stood from his seat and aggressively walked his way.
~~~~~~
In the Fei Manor,
"Young Miss! Please wake up." Shoumen approached making an effort to wake her Young Miss. "What's the matter, Shoumen?" Anchhi asked rubbing her sleepy eyes as she sat up.
"This maid apologizes for disturbing your sleep." Shoumen bowed before Anchhi. "But, I am here with an urgent matter, Young Miss!" stated Shoumen.
"What is it? Speak!" said Anchhi as she got off her bed and started stretching. "The Grand Herald has ordered you to visit the palace." claimed Shoumen as she lowered her eyes.
"Palace?" Ancchi's eyes widened and mouth opened in shock but her mouth contained a definite smile. It was hard for her to believe that the Grand Herald allowed her to leave the manor and visit the palace.
"It's not only the Grand Herald's command but also your aunt wish, to see you in the palace." Shoumen further spoke. "My aunt? Who is she?" with her knitted brows Anchhi asked.
"Your aunt is the royal consort Yimu, the younger sister of your mother."
"Really? Am I really her niece? I do have connections with the royal family. Then, I am also not less than a princess, right?" Anchhi giggled as she flaunted her long black hair.
Seeing her kid-like gestures, Shoumen chuckled, "Indeed! Our young Miss is also not less than a princess."
"Hey! Shoumen, make me ready fast." Anchhi desperately said as she grabbed Shoumen's hand taking her to the bathhouse with her.
After she was done with her bath, Shoumen helped her in dressing. "Young Miss! This is a present Royal Consort had sent for you. She will be happy if you wear this while visiting her." Shoumen stated as she held a phoenix feather hairpin on her hand.
"How magnificent it is!" excitedly Anchhi expressed. "Hurry up! Help me wear this." Then, Anchhi made herself sit on the stool near the dressing table. Shoumen pulled some strands of her hair and tied them up with the phoenix feather hairpin.
"Young Miss! It's done." said Shoumen.
"How do I look Shoumen?" Anchhi asked, peeking her own reflection on the mirror.
"Our Young Miss is really a heavenly beauty." she leaned towards Anchhi, her hands resting on Anchhi's shoulders.
"The carriage is ready outside." The manservant informed from the door.
"Young Miss! Shall we depart?" Shoumen asked where Anchhi replied nodding her head.