Chapter 649: The Emperor’s Promise
ƁΟXNƟVEL.CʘM“Third Brother, Third Sister-in-law, there’s no need to persuade me any further. Regardless of the circumstances, I won’t relinquish the opportunity to enter the palace!”
“Once inside, I am well aware of what actions to take and what to avoid. Under no circumstances will I engage in anything that might implicate our family.”
“While I’m in the palace, rest assured, I won’t allow the Emperor to harm our family in any way. I am absolutely determined!”
Su Ning’s resolve was even stronger than before.
Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin exchanged glances but remained silent.
Just then, a guard hurriedly entered.
“My governor, the imperial edict has arrived!”
Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen were taken aback. The Emperor acted swiftly!
Only in the morning, after the court assembly, had he informed Su Bin of his desire for Su Ning to enter the palace. He hadn’t even had lunch before dispatching an envoy to deliver the imperial edict.
If all went as planned, this imperial edict would undoubtedly grant Su Ning entry into the palace.
Observing the satisfaction on Su Ning’s face, Qin Zhenzhen felt a mix of emotions. She hoped Su Ning would pray for herself once within the palace.
She harbored resentment toward any woman close to the Third Prince and vowed to find ways to inflict harm upon them.
The entire Su family assembled at the entrance, kneeling to receive the decree.
“Su Ning, the youngest daughter of the Su family, accepts the decree!”
Then, Eunuch Wang proceeded to read the imperial edict.
In essence, the emperor’s decree stated that the Su family’s youngest daughter possessed virtue suitable for the role of empress.
Upon concluding the announcement, Eunuch Wang smiled and turned to Su Bin, inquiring about the preferred title. “Governor Su, congratulations!”
“Congratulations, Miss Su!”
Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen were pleasantly surprised. They hadn’t anticipated the emperor bestowing the title of empress upon Su Ning!
He had indeed given the Su family considerable honor.
With this development, they felt more assured about Su Ning entering the palace.
Su Ning was overjoyed, though she made an effort to contain her emotions. She understood that the Emperor wouldn’t disappoint her!
Moreover, she acknowledged that it was due to her third brother and third sister-in-law that she could ascend to the position of empress.
Without Third Elder Brother’s strategic maneuvers, Third Elder Sister-in-law’s wealth, and her family’s influence, sitting on the throne might have been unattainable.
Yet, when Su Ning recalled the day the emperor sought her out and asked if she was willing to wait for him, her confidence surged a hundredfold.
Apart from her maternal family, the emperor seemed highly satisfied with her, evident in his gentle gaze.
Su Bin generously rewarded Eunuch Wang, and the entire Su Residence brimmed with jubilant spirits.
Ministers from the court continuously streamed in and out of Su Bin’s residence, extending congratulations and attempting to curry favor.
Outside the Su family’s house, the thoroughfare was bustling.
Come nightfall, the new emperor, accompanied by just one attendant and dressed informally, arrived at Su Bin’s residence.
Su Bin and the others intended to kneel and bow, but the emperor halted them.
“Everyone, there’s no need for such formality. I’m just here as an ordinary person.”
As usual, Su Bin escorted the emperor to the study.
Observing Su Bin’s apparent concern, the emperor couldn’t resist inquiring,
“Minister Su, are you troubled?”
Internally cursing, Su Bin knew the expected response, but outwardly maintained, “Your Majesty, I harbor no concerns.”
The Emperor smiled. “I informed you this morning, allowing you time for contemplation.”
Su Bin cursed once more. What was there to contemplate? In less than two hours, the imperial edict arrived. Moreover, he had privately won his sister’s affection. Now, she was committed, as steadfast as if she had nine lives.
Undeterred, the Emperor continued, “I understand your apprehension about
Ning’er adapting to palace life. I assure you that I will ensure her well-being.”
“After our union, I’ll refrain from taking a concubine for three years.”
“Three years hence, there shall be only four consorts.” “I will abolish the general selection every three years.” “I pledge a lifetime of kindness to Ning’er!”
This was the most significant vow an emperor could make.
Despite this, Su Bin was already deeply grateful..