Chapter 6 The Banquet Arrow
At the banquet, I saw Zhang Ruhua.
She sat upright beside Zhao Yan.
Her manners already carried the grace expected of the future Crown Princess.
I sat across from them and watched them together.
It was like seeing the devoted imperial couple from my past life.
Halfway through the meal, I picked up my cup and walked toward them.
"Your Highness."
Zhao Yan was focused on the performers and ignored me.
I called again.
He finally turned his head.
"What is it?"
I explained my purpose.
He said, "Today is my future father-in-law's birthday. I have no interest in handling these matters. Come find me another day."
I took a deep breath and was about to speak again when an arrow shot down from above.
Zhao Yan narrowed his eyes and reached out on instinct to pull me aside.
I noticed the motion and quickly dodged.
I also pushed Zhang Ruhua beside him.
Zhang Ruhua escaped unharmed.
I was not fast enough and took the arrow in my shoulder.
The assassin seemed to be aiming at Zhao Yan. After missing, he fled at once.
I collapsed to the ground.
Zhao Yan looked down at me for a long moment before letting out a cold laugh.
"You are truly loyal to me. You would rather be injured yourself than let my future Crown Princess come to harm."
I endured the pain and answered.
"It is what a subject should do."
With so many eyes watching, he had ignored his own Crown Princess and chosen to save me instead.
In the next moment, Zhao Yan sent men after the assassin while pulling the jade token from his waist.
He handed it to a nearby guard.
"Go to the Imperial Medical Bureau and summon every physician."
I was startled.
"No."
Zhao Yan lowered his gaze, his tone icy. "You are wounded this badly and still insist on being strong? Or do you want me to treat your injury myself?"