"Ji Rui was somewhat stunned and hesitated. Cancel? She had finally managed to avoid going on stage to perform, but Su Zimo pulled such a move. This cunning person is really good at teasing others.
A divine-grade third-rank Rejuvenation Pill is extremely rare and hard to come by. No, it absolutely cannot end like this. The entire savings of her lifetime can only buy one.
"Well, since Miss Su is so interested, I'll play along and help everyone's spirits," Ji Rui quickly spoke up.
The smile on Su Zimo's lips widened. Indeed, with Ji Rui's character, how could she miss such an opportunity to make herself beautiful?
Upon hearing Ji Rui's words, the Empress and Ji Yu glared at her in anger.
"Do you really want to die?" Jun Lintian asked in a voice that only he and Ji Rui could hear.
"I have you, don't I?" Ji Rui coldly smiled, "Don't forget, she is still in my hands. If I die, she will be instantly killed too."
With an ace up her sleeve, Ji Rui spoke arrogantly.
"Hmph!" Jun Lintian snorted without saying another word.
Su Zimo was cunning. If this woman wanted to throw herself into trouble, he wouldn't stop her. If she exposed any flaws, she could only blame herself.
"Since the princess is also interested, let's begin!" Su Zimo casually said.
Ji Rui looked at Su Zimo, and a trace of cunning flashed in her eyes. Could it be? Did she fall into Su Zimo's trap?
Ji Rui realized it a bit late. Even if she lost here, no one, except Jun Lintian, would suspect her. After all, it was the tricky Su Zimo who set the questions.
"Let's start with something simple, guessing idioms from pictures or objects. If any of the young ladies are interested, they can also join. The winner will receive a divine-grade third-rank Rejuvenation Pill," Su Zimo suggested.
As long as she could delay Ji Rui, Qingfeng and the others would have enough time to find Jun Yaoxi.
Su Zimo's words made the other young ladies even more excited, all waiting for Su Zimo to set the questions.
"Since Miss Su has invested so much, why don't I participate as well? Miss Su, please set the questions!" Haoyue Emperor also expressed his anticipation, as words can also be used to play games.
Upon hearing this, Su Zimo was momentarily stunned. What was Haoyue Emperor trying to do by joining in the fun?
"Then we shall participate too!" Murong Shaofeng looked at Su Zimo with a smile on his face.
Uh... Su Zimo had a headache. Was a divine-grade third-rank Rejuvenation Pill really that rare? Why did they all want it? Even Shaofeng...!
Even Haoyue Emperor came to join the excitement. He had just taken a Heavenly Soul Longevity Pill not long ago, and now he wanted a Rejuvenation Pill?
"Alright," Su Zimo nodded.
A maid had already brought writing materials to Su Zimo.
"Let's begin! Ten sets of idioms, guessing six correctly to win. Once we finish, I will present the divine-grade third-rank Rejuvenation Pill with both hands," Su Zimo said as she picked up the brush and quickly drew a pattern on the paper.
Muyun Xuan looked at her drawing technique and couldn't help but shrug his shoulders.
Su Zimo's face turned slightly red. It wasn't her fault; she hadn't learned how to paint with a brush in six years. She used her homemade pencil drawings for designing patterns.
"Since it's the princess's literary exhibition, let's start with the princess," Su Zimo looked at Ji Rui with a meaningful glance.
Ji Rui felt her eyelids twitching. That ill-intentioned gaze made her feel flustered. Su Zimo was indeed targeting her.
The Emperor pondered for a moment and then said seriously, "Xier has always been eloquent. Miss Su, your words must count!"
Originally, he had some reservations about Su Zimo, as Xier had a slight connection with Xuan'er. But now it seemed that Su Zimo's invitation to play wasn't necessarily all about Xier.
"Your Majesty, I always keep my word," Su Zimo responded.
"Qin Gonggong, bring the drawing for the princess and everyone to see," the Emperor ordered.
Qin Gonggong received the order and quickly walked towards Su Zimo.
As he picked up the drawing with Su Zimo's words, he furrowed his brows.
Without much thought, he showed the drawing to Ji Rui first and then to everyone present.
"A needle and two seams, what does it mean?" Ji Rui muttered softly.
The last ones to see the drawing were Haoyue Emperor and the Empress.
Haoyue Emperor looked at the drawing and furrowed his brows slightly. "It's interesting to guess idioms like this."
Hearing this, Jun Yaoxi felt a bit stunned. Interesting? Su Zimo wasn't playing a game at all with this. It was clearly a sinister symbol. If it weren't for the divine-grade third-rank Rejuvenation Pill, she wouldn't have agreed to this word game. She didn't want to always be the unlucky one.
"Princess, please give us the answer!"
Su Zimo looked at Ji Rui and couldn't help but think that when it came to literary talent and artistic pursuits, Ji Rui couldn't compare to Jun Yaoxi, who had received education since childhood. She was certain of this.
"This..." Ji Rui looked troubled and glanced at Jun Lintian.
Jun Lintian whispered, "Don't look at me, even I don't know the answer."
Su Qi blinked her eyes and glanced at Jun Yaoxi.
"You fool, how can't you guess something you do all the time?" Su Qi muttered under her breath.
"Su Qi, do you know the answer?" Muyun Xuan asked with a smile.
"Uncle, you figured it out too?" Su Qi turned back and asked.
"Uncle wasn't sure at first, but after hearing your muttering, I figured out the answer," Muyun Xuan replied.
Muyun Xuan smiled elegantly, finding this game quite interesting.
"If the princess can't guess it, then I will reveal the answer," Murong Shaofeng couldn't wait any longer.
"Seize the opportunity," Yan Ping'an said, not waiting for Jun Yaoxi. It was a competition to see who would win.
"Seize the opportunity?" Ji Rui felt frustrated. She couldn't believe she didn't think of such a simple idiom.
"Miss Su, is that correct?" Yan Ping'an looked smugly at Su Zimo.
"Congratulations, Crown Prince. You guessed it right. The answer is correct. Let's move on to the next question," Su Zimo said with a smile.
Su Zimo glanced at Yan Ping'an. This person was like a rat dropping, always trying to take advantage. She picked up the brush once again and drew a flowing water and a stone on the paper.
Qin Gonggong quickly showed the drawing to Princess Jun Yaoxi first, and then to everyone present, before returning it to Emperor Haoyue.
"Water and a stone?" Ji Rui felt overwhelmed. She was somewhat familiar with idioms, but guessing them in this way was a bit challenging for her.
"Water reveals stones." Murong Shaofeng knew the answer at a glance. After letting Yan Ping'an snatch one question earlier, he wouldn't give in this time.
"The Crown Prince guessed it right," Su Zimo smiled and looked at Murong Shaofeng.
Emperor Haoyue frowned upon hearing this and looked at Jun Yaoxi.
"Xier, these idioms shouldn't pose much difficulty for you, right?"
Ji Rui's face flickered with guilt for a moment. "Father, it's the first time Xier has encountered this kind of word game. She's not used to it for a while, but there are still eight questions left. Xier will do her best."
Upon hearing this, Su Zimo couldn't help but sneer. Ji Rui had been pampered since childhood and still clung to a glimmer of hope, even when faced with imminent death. Only those who have suffered know what life truly is.
After that, Su Zimo presented ten idioms, and Murong Shaofeng guessed six correctly, winning the divine-grade third-rank Rejuvenation Pill.
As for Ji Rui, she guessed only one idiom. Emperor Haoyue's face darkened slightly. After all, it was their country's celebratory event, and Ji Rui's performance disappointed Emperor Haoyue.
Following the agreement, Su Zimo presented the divine-grade third-rank Rejuvenation Pill to Murong Shaofeng, leaving everyone present envious.
Su Zimo suggested taking a medium break, and Emperor Haoyue instructed Qin Gonggong to announce a song and dance performance.
Immediately, there was a lively performance on the stage, while Su Zimo glanced back at the entrance of the grand hall. Still, there was no sign of Qingfeng. Su Zimo couldn't sit still.
Muyun Xuan sensed her thoughts and said, "Momo, why don't we go out and take a look?"
"No need." Su Zimo knew that if she left, Ji Rui would definitely suspect her.
"Qier, come here," Su Zimo beckoned to Su Qi.
Su Qi's bright eyes flickered as she quickly ran to Su Zimo's side.
"Mother, what's the matter?"
Su Zimo whispered a few words in Su Qi's ear.
Su Qi nodded and quietly left without anyone noticing.
"Momo, I'm worried about Qier and Qingfeng. Let me go and check on them."
Muyun Xuan was not accustomed to seeking opinions from others in his actions. Even if he left, no one would suspect him too much.
When Ji Rui saw Muyun Xuan leave, a hint of doubt flashed in her eyes, and she stood up to follow him.
Jun Lintian had been observing Su Zimo's expression all along, wondering if she had discovered something about the woman beside him.
The Empress watched the competition between Su Zimo and Ji Rui, feeling anxious for herself and Ji Rui.
"Third Prince, what are you still standing there for?" Ji Rui's face darkened as she looked at Jun Lintian. As long as someone caused trouble for Su Zimo, wouldn't he be affected?
"In front of Father, what can I do?" Jun Lintian sneered coldly. It wasn't that he didn't want to help her, but he had his own plans after the marriage with the Princess Consort, and how could he bring up events from six years ago in front of so many important people?
"Hmph! Useless." Ji Rui muttered quietly to Jun Lintian.
"Your Majesty! Miss Su was able to guess the idiom in the game. She must be talented in other areas as well. Why not let her showcase her talents for us?" Murong Shaofeng suggested.
Ji Rui couldn't believe that Su Zimo would dare refuse if Emperor Haoyue intervened. If Su Zimo performed on stage, she would have a chance to embarrass her.
"Is Miss Su willing to entertain us?" Emperor Haoyue asked Su Zimo. The female singers on the stage had already stepped down.
"Your Majesty, I have no other talents. The Princess has overestimated me," Su Zimo decisively declined. She had no intention of performing on stage. The energies in this grand hall were too chaotic for her liking.
Upon hearing this, Emperor Haoyue's face instantly turned displeased. This was the second time Su Zimo had firmly refused him.
"Su Zimo, it is widely known that you were once abandoned by the Third Prince...," Ji Rui suddenly said.
In an instant, a coldness flashed in Su Zimo's eyes, cutting off Ji Rui's words.
"Princess, what does that have to do with the Third Prince sitting here? It is widely known that I, Su Zimo, am Muyun Xuan's wife. Princess, to say such things in front of everyone, you have malicious intentions."
With just one sentence, Su Zimo silenced Ji Rui, leaving her wide-eyed. She had intended to make everyone aware of what happened six years ago when she was rejected by Jun Lintian, but she didn't expect Su Zimo to counterattack.
The Empress stared at her, wondering why her sister would be so foolish at this moment. It was like stirring up trouble for no reason.
Jun Lintian gave her a cold glance. If it weren't for Xier being in her hands, he would have wanted to slap her with one palm. He had had enough of this woman.
"It is said that the Kingdom of Haoyue is a country of etiquette among the four nations. Today, I am truly amazed. A mere merchant's wife dares to put on such airs."
Yan Zhaoxue said with a sarcastic smile, her eyes filled with arrogance.
Everyone naturally understood what she meant.
"Princess of Zisang, why are you constantly targeting my daughter? What are your intentions?" Situ Ruoyan couldn't bear it any longer.
Her loud words left everyone in the hall puzzled.
Puzzlement, surprise! And even more shock!
Who was her daughter? Su Zimo?
The shock was overwhelming. The people in the hall were dumbfounded by Situ Ruoyan's words.
They all looked at the three siblings, Su Zimo in particular.
Especially Emperor Haoyue, who was shocked to see Situ Ruoyan. There were early reports that the Nanlan King had three children who were living outside, and could it be that they were the three siblings? This matter was extremely secretive, and only their kingdom had found a clue.
"You are Situ Ruoyan." The Empress finally recognized Situ Ruoyan's appearance but was still somewhat uncertain.
The woman who was once known as the most beautiful woman in Haoyue had married Su Weichen. This was something unimaginable.
Back then, Situ Ruoyan had saved the Empress Dowager's life, and out of gratitude, the Empress Dowager had given the newly born Su Zimo to her. She had seen Situ Ruoyan twice since then, but after all these years, her appearance was still beautiful, though her temperament was somewhat different. Truly, everything had changed. The former Situ Ruoyan, who had already passed away, was now the Empress of a country. It was truly unbelievable.
Su Zimo knew that her mother couldn't help but speak out now, but it was the right time.
She glanced at the people in the hall, wondering if Ji Rui had noticed anything when she went out.
"It's true, Your Majesty. I am indeed the former Situ Ruoyan. If not for the circumstances back then, I wouldn't have asked Mr. Su for help."
"Nonsense! Help? How is that possible? The former Situ Ruoyan was escorted into the Su family's residence on a grand scale." Ji Yaotian simply didn't believe Situ Ruoyan's words. As an elder of two dynasties, he was well aware of the events that had taken place in recent years. How could she wash away the fact that she was Su Weichen's wife with a vague statement? In his presence, how could that be possible?
"How is that impossible? Back then, it was the lonely king who asked Su brother for help. Emperor Haoyue, I believe you also know some secret matters of my Li Xia Kingdom. The lonely king went through many hardships back then and often had no choice. Now that the lonely king is the ruler of a country, it is natural for the lonely king's children to acknowledge their roots."
Nalan Wenha's face turned gloomy as he looked at Ji Yaotian's calculating old face.
Emperor Haoyue nodded. Indeed, back then, when he was still the prince, Nalan Wenha's situation was extremely difficult! It was only half a year ago that he saw the light of day. He had suffered a lot over the years. However, among their several countries, they wouldn't meddle in the internal conflicts of other nations. They needed to maintain peace among the countries.
Su Ziyun, who was among the ladies, was dumbfounded.
How could this be? Su Qingjue, Su Zimo, and Su Zinian were not their father's biological children? How was that possible? She had grown up in the Su residence since she was little. Why had her father never mentioned this?
Su Zinian also couldn't believe it. Did their father contact Su Weichen secretly?
"So, these three sisters from the Su family are spies from the Li Xia Kingdom within the Haoyue Kingdom?" Ji Rui jealously and sarcastically slandered the three siblings.
The revelation of Su Zinian's sudden identity was a tremendous blow to her. Today, she could sit here as a princess by stepping on Jun Yaoxi's head, while Su Zinian, despite encountering influential figures along the way, ultimately became a privileged and well-provided-for individual.
Mu Rong Shaofeng felt relieved when he heard the news. With this additional identity for Momo, she gained another layer of protection. Even after returning to the Xingyue Kingdom, he could feel more at ease.
Among the people present, Jun Lintian regretted the most. If he hadn't broken the engagement back then, all of this would be his.
If only there were "ifs"! Jun Lintian was full of regrets now, his gaze fixed on the stunning Su Zinian, his hands involuntarily clenched into fists.
Jun Zixi and Mu Yufeng exchanged glances, both feeling incredulous. Their daughter-in-law had suddenly become a princess.
Yan Zhaoxue also wore an expression of disbelief. Su Zinian turned out to be a princess of the Li Xia Kingdom. How could this be?
"Princess, you should think carefully before speaking. The three of us siblings have lived peacefully in the Haoyue Kingdom for many years. If we were spies, could your Haoyue Kingdom remain so peaceful?" Su Zinian coldly looked at Ji Rui. It seemed she was desperate now!
"Father...!"
"Ji Rui, no need to call anymore. Your good days are over."
Suddenly, Su Zinian caught sight of a tall figure. She could be sure that Yun Xuan and the others had found Jun Yaoxi, and they appeared at the perfect moment. Ji Yaotian now just wanted to exploit the fact that her mother was Su Weichen's wife, and he no longer cared about anything else.
Her mentioning of Ji Rui made the Empress's heart jump to her throat, leaving Ji Rui momentarily stunned and somewhat at a loss.
Ji Yaotian glared at Su Zinian with a dark expression. Did she discover something?
"Miss Su, when you mentioned Ji Rui, who are you referring to?"
Emperor Haoyue had a vague idea of what was happening?
"Ji Rui, so it's Ji Rui. Damn it, this despicable person. Where is Xi'er?" Jun Lintian suddenly made a move, grabbing Ji Rui by the neck.
He had thought that this woman who pretended to be Xier would be formidable. Ji Rui could have been Ji Rui.
Meanwhile, Mu Yunxuan strode in quickly.
"Mmm...!" Ji Rui's face turned red as Jun Lintian gripped her neck, looking at him fearfully.
The hall instantly became restless as everyone's gaze turned toward Jun Lintian's position. While everyone maintained their composure due to their status, they began to whisper and speculate about what had happened and why Ji Rui would impersonate Princess Yaoxi.
The Empress, sitting next to Emperor Haoyue, looked at her sister with worry. Where had they gone wrong? Su Zinian had managed to see through her sister's disguise.
Jun Zixi couldn't help but look at Ji Rui with a gloating expression. No wonder this woman went to great lengths to embarrass her daughter-in-law. So, it was Ji Rui!
"Momo, Princess Yaoxi is outside," Mu Yunxuan sat down next to Su Zinian and whispered.
Su Zinian looked at Ji Rui's flushed face with a smirk. If it were any other time, she might not have had the chance, but now, she had seized the opportunity. After all, she had come so far and found nothing but dead ends. How could she let go of this chance? She wanted Ji Rui to never have a chance to turn the tables, even though she was the Empress's sister, impersonating a princess was already a capital offense.
"Miss Su, are you sure she really is Ji Rui?"
Emperor Haoyue knew that the answer lay with Su Zinian.
Thinking of all the events that had unfolded today, Emperor Haoyue cast a sidelong glance at the Empress sitting next to him.
The Empress's heart raced as she looked at Emperor Haoyue, her sister Su Zinian had once again ruined her good fortune. How could she always be defeated by Su Zinian?
"Your Majesty, she is indeed Ji Rui. Princess Yaoxi has been found, and she is right outside the hall."
Upon hearing this, Emperor Haoyue was somewhat stunned. He hadn't noticed anything different about this person who pretended to be the princess's daughter. If he hadn't discovered it, it could be considered excusable. Ji Rui had grown up with Yaoxi since childhood, so she knew everything about Yaoxi very well.
As everyone was discussing the matter, two palace maids led the weakened Princess Yaoxi into the hall.
Seeing Jun Yaoxi, the onlookers gasped in unison.
Ji Rui, on the other hand, closed her eyes in despair. Everything had happened too quickly, without giving her any chance to prepare. Once again, she had been defeated by Su Zinian, and she knew what the result would be this time.
"Bang!" Jun Lintian threw Ji Rui aside and stood up, walking toward Jun Yaoxi.