Li Chengqian's arrival at the prince's residence did not deter Baili Hongzhuang's composed demeanor. As she stepped into the main hall, a faint smile lingered on her lips, her eyes filled with a hint of amusement.
Li Chengqian, on the other hand, was seething with anger. He couldn't believe that Baili Hongzhuang, a mere consort, dared to make him wait. His pride as the Prime Minister had been deeply wounded.
"Prince Chen and the Princess are indeed busy people," Li Chengqian sarcastically remarked, his tone dripping with sarcasm.
Baili Hongzhuang raised an eyebrow, her smile widening. "Prime Minister Li's arrival is indeed a rare honor. How can I not attend to such an esteemed guest?"
Her words carried a subtle mockery, causing Li Chengqian's face to darken further. However, he forcefully suppressed his anger, unwilling to lose his composure in front of the Emperor.
Emperor Bei Chen stood beside Baili Hongzhuang, his gaze filled with affection. He knew that Baili Hongzhuang was deliberately provoking Li Chengqian, but he found it entertaining to watch the Prime Minister struggle to maintain his facade.
"Prime Minister Li, what brings you here today?" Emperor Bei Chen asked casually, his voice calm and collected.
Li Chengqian took a deep breath, attempting to regain his composure. He couldn't afford to lose his temper in front of the Emperor, especially over a mere concubine.
"Your Majesty, I've come today to discuss an important matter," Li Chengqian replied, his tone formal and respectful.
Baili Hongzhuang leaned against Emperor Bei Chen's side, her expression serene. She knew that Li Chengqian's visit had something to do with her, and she was curious to see what he had to say.
"Prime Minister Li, please speak," Emperor Bei Chen said, gesturing for Li Chengqian to continue.
Li Chengqian took a deep breath, suppressing his resentment. "Your Majesty, I've received news that the Royal Hunting Competition will begin tomorrow. I believe that Princess Yuyue, as a member of the royal family, should also participate in this grand event."
As Li Chengqian spoke, his gaze fell upon Baili Hongzhuang, his eyes filled with disdain. It was clear that he didn't think highly of her.
Baili Hongzhuang chuckled softly, her voice carrying a hint of amusement. "Prime Minister Li is truly well-informed. Indeed, Princess Yuyue will be participating in the Royal Hunting Competition."
Li Chengqian's eyes widened in surprise, not expecting Baili Hongzhuang to admit it so readily. He had thought that she would use her identity as a concubine to avoid participating.
"But," Baili Hongzhuang continued, her voice turning cold, "I'm afraid that Prime Minister Li has misunderstood. Princess Yuyue will not be participating in the competition as a member of the royal family."
Li Chengqian frowned, his confusion evident. "Then, how will she participate?"
Baili Hongzhuang's eyes sparkled with mischief as she revealed a sly smile. "She will participate as an independent contestant. After all, she has her own strength and doesn't need the support of any title."
Li Chengqian's face darkened, realizing that Baili Hongzhuang was deliberately challenging his authority. By having Li Yuyue participate independently, she was indirectly rejecting his control and influence.
Emperor Bei Chen remained silent, observing the exchange between Baili Hongzhuang and Li Chengqian. He was well aware of Baili Hongzhuang's intentions and was curious to see how Li Chengqian would react.
Li Chengqian clenched his fists, his knuckles turning white. He had never thought that Baili Hongzhuang would be so bold and audacious. It seemed that dealing with her would not be as easy as he had anticipated.
Suppressing his anger, Li Chengqian forced a smile. "Princess Yuyue's decision is indeed unexpected. However, the Royal Hunting Competition is a prestigious event, and it would be inappropriate for an independent contestant to participate. I hope that Princess Yuyue can reconsider."
Baili Hongzhuang tilted her head slightly, her eyes narrowing. "Prime Minister Li, are you suggesting that my decision is inappropriate?"
Li Chengqian's smile stiffened, realizing that his words had offended Baili Hongzhuang. He quickly corrected himself, not wanting to further escalate the situation.
"No, no, Princess Yuyue's decision is her own. I merely meant that participating as an independent contestant might not be as advantageous for her," Li Chengqian explained, his tone hurried and apologetic.
Baili Hongzhuang's lips curved into a mocking smile. "Advantageous or not, it is Princess Yuyue's choice to make. I trust that she has her reasons."
Her words left Li Chengqian speechless. He knew that there was no point in arguing further. Baili Hongzhuang had made up her mind, and he couldn't change it.
Emperor Bei Chen finally spoke, his voice calm yet firm. "Since Princess Yuyue has made her decision, we should respect it. Prime Minister Li, I hope you understand."
Li Chengqian's expression darkened, but he had no choice but to accept Emperor Bei Chen's words. He couldn't afford to antagonize the Emperor over a trivial matter.
"Of course, Your Majesty," Li Chengqian replied, his tone forced.
Baili Hongzhuang's eyes gleamed with triumph. She had successfully asserted her independence and challenged Li Chengqian's authority. This encounter was just the beginning of their power struggle, and she was determined to come out on top.
As the tension in the room eased, Baili Hongzhuang turned to Emperor Bei Chen, a gentle smile gracing her lips. "Your Majesty, now that everything has been discussed, may we retire for the day?"
Emperor Bei Chen nodded, his gaze filled with adoration. "Of course, my dear. Let's leave the Prime Minister to his affairs."
With a final glance at Li Chengqian, Baili Hongzhuang gracefully turned and left the main hall, Emperor Bei Chen following closely behind.
Li Chengqian watched their retreating figures, his eyes filled with a mix of frustration and resentment. He had underestimated Baili Hongzhuang, and now he had to find a way to regain control over the situation.
The power struggle between Li Chengqian and Baili Hongzhuang had just begun, and both sides were determined to emerge victorious.