Spoilers nos Comentários: Depois de Encontrar um Novo Amor, o Príncipe Herdeiro Enlouqueceu

"Mingyue, you have performed a great service by saving your master. What reward do you desire?"

In the center of the grand hall knelt a woman. Her figure was frail, and upon closer inspection, her small face was exceptionally pale, without a trace of color on her lips. Her head hung low, and her shoulders trembled involuntarily at the sound of the Emperor's voice.

It was the Autumn Banquet. The lanterns were newly lit, and it was a joyous occasion for everyone to drink wine and admire the moon. Yet, the Emperor had suddenly summoned her forward to bestow rewards for her service.

Sheng Mingyue bent her body slightly, her fingernails digging into her palms. The stab wound on her chest still throbbed with a dull ache.

Just four hours ago, she was still at Foxin Temple. To earn a full meal, she had taken a blade for a noble lord. Her bandages had only just been changed, and before she even had a chance to recuperate, she was brought into the palace.

"Why do you remain silent?"

The Emperor’s deep voice echoed from above. Sheng Mingyue took a deep breath and said softly, "This handmaid begs Your Majesty..."

"Imperial Father, why not bestow a marriage upon Mingyue?"

Sheng Mingyue froze. She slowly raised her face, her gaze meeting the young man's eyes, a flicker of hope rising in her chest.

A pin-drop silence fell over the grand hall. The officials exchanged glances, unsure of what the Crown Prince, who had only just returned to the palace from his ascetic training, intended