Rebirth of the Phoenix Princess novel Chapter 122

Though Yun Shang promised to think it over, she wasn't prepared to give Prince Jing an answer. After considering for a while, she decided to visit Lady Jin first. She mounted her horse and rode to Laifeng City. As per an Imperial Decree, Fenglai Palace had been renamed to Laifeng to reflect his Majesty's love and affection for Lady Jin, who was now residing in the temporary imperial palace. It was late morning when Yun Shang arrived at the City.

The security at Laifeng Palace was very strict. It was challenging for Yun Shang to get in even with Madam Zheng's help.

Lady Jin was taking a nap in the begonia garden. She had been pregnant for many months, and now, her belly bulged. Yun Shang felt peaceful as she approached Lady Jin.

After a while, Lady Jin woke and was surprised to see Yun Shang. She smiled pleasantly. "Shang'er, why are you here?"

Yun Shang blinked and chuckled. "I haven't seen you in a long time, mother. I missed you, so I came to see if you were all right."

Lady Jin nodded. "It's very quiet here. I'm having a good time."

"Have you seen grandfather?" Yun Shang thought of Xiao Yuanshan, who lived in a nearby town.

"Yes. He is well." Lady Jin looked pleasantly calm. Yun Shang didn't tell her about Prince Jing. Instead, she stayed in the temporary imperial palace with Lady Jin and took care of her for two days. After that, she decided to leave for the Imperial City. The delegation from the State of Yelang would arrive in a few days. She had to be there to witness Hua Jing lose her reputation.

On the last day of her stay in Laifeng Palace, Lady Jin talked with Yun Shang. "Although you said you are here to visit me, I can see that something is on your mind. Would you like to talk to me about it? I know you have had a tough time all these years, and there was no one for you to have a heart-to-heart talk with, but I don't want you to hide your feelings or worries all the time."

Yun Shang hesitated for a moment before she told Lady Jin everything about Prince Jing, from their encounter to the conversation they had several days ago.

After a short silence, Lady Jin said. "To be honest, I have known Qingyan since he was a child, so I kind of know his character. He might seem indifferent sometimes, but he is faithful to those he really cares about. You might also have feelings for him, but you will keep overthinking his intention if you are always on your guard. Don't you think it's kind of unfair to him?"

Yun Shang was lost in thought for a moment, and then she couldn't help but agree with her mother. After experiencing a tumultuous marriage in her previous life, she tended to keep her guard on. Moreover, Prince Jing was indeed an ambitious and resourceful person, so he always seemed to have some ulterior intention. If she were honest with herself, for the past few months, he had been of great help to her.

Lady Jin smiled at Yun Shang, "And considering the current situation, why would he care to plot against us? First of all, Prince Jing is more powerful than us. Besides, we might not even be qualified to be his opponent in tactics. What's more, you are beautiful and smart. Are you not confident enough to believe that you deserve his love?"

Yun Shang quivered and smiled bitterly. Those closely involved could not see as clearly as those outside. She was too involved to see through the appearances. Yes, all the reasons she had were merely excuses. The truth was that she didn't believe in herself.

"I understand." Yun Shang leaned on Lady Jin's shoulder and smelled a faint begonia scent. "Next time I see mother, I will have a little brother or sister. Do you prefer a boy or a girl, mother?"

Lady Jin smiled tenderly. "A girl maybe. She will have less pressure. I know your father needs a son, an heir. But it takes too much killing to inherit the throne, and Emperors are never able to follow their hearts. Girls might live a happier life in the Palace."

Yun Shang's eyes sparkled. She smiled. "I will protect my little sister or brother with my life. Don't worry, mother."

Lady Jin poked Yun Shang's forehead. "You are still a child yourself. But speaking of that, you are engaged now and soon, you will be married. My Shang'er has grown up."

All of a sudden, Yun Shang felt like crying, so she looked down and grinned. "I will always be mother's child."