Shengjing's Xia Miao ended so abruptly and unexpectedly.
Without the generous hunting rewards, without His Majesty's commendations, the noble sons had no chance to show off their elaborate riding outfits, and a grand event came to an end just like that.
Xia Miao may have ended, but some matters were just beginning.
On Huangmao Hill, Crown Prince Yuan Zhen was suddenly attacked by a tiger, while the Third Prince Yuan Yao encountered an assassination attempt in the woods. The two had never gotten along, and the coinciding timing of these incidents was intriguing indeed.
Prior to the hunting festival, Ban Wei patrolled the hills year after year without incident. This year, a lapse in security during their watch led to chaos, angering Emperor Liang Ming greatly. He ordered a thorough investigation into the garrisoned troops, suspecting that a traitor had infiltrated their ranks.