1787 Change 3
“Just a slight chill, an old problem. You’re already aware of it. Nothing to worry about,” Gu Chaoyan calmly reassured him.

The warmth from the lit coal basins provided her with some comfort, easing her discomfort.

However, Zhou Huaijin couldn’t shake off his unease upon hearing Gu Chaoyan’s words.

Yes, she had experienced similar issues in the past, but it hadn’t been as severe as it was now.

He had already exerted considerable effort in searching for Mr. Zhao and other potential talents, but there had been no progress. No one seemed to know where Mr. Zhao had taken his mother. They had previously discussed living in the southern region and having Mr. Zhao regularly report their situation to the capital. However, to this day, they hadn’t received any reports, nor had they been able to locate them in the southern area. Had they changed their location? Or had they purposely secluded themselves from the world?

Zhou Huaijin’s anxiety grew more intense.

“I feel extremely cold. Please lie down with me,” Gu Chaoyan requested, gently massaging his temples and urging him not to become overly anxious.

—

At the hostel,

Ouyang Mingjing received the news about the situation at Fengxian Palace shortly after the commotion had begun.

“What? The Queen was fine yesterday, and now she’s feeling extremely cold?” Ouyang Mingjing furrowed his brow, his expression concerned.

“Yes, City Lord. She was in good health the day before, but now they’re delivering coal basins and blankets to Fengxian Palace,” the guard from Snow Territory replied.

Ouyang Mingjing’s face darkened.

“Who is responsible for this?” Ouyang Mingjing inquired, displeased.

He would rather exercise patience than resort to methods that could potentially trigger the poison within her body. It was far too risky. Dealing with the poison was no easy task.
“Not us, but she did visit Duke North Mansion yesterday, so…” Longqing suggested.

“Go and investigate that matter!” Ouyang Mingjing, who had previously been calm and composed, suddenly displayed a different countenance. He was infuriated by this turn of events.

Longqing nodded.

Ouyang Mingjing stood up. “I’m heading to the court.”

Even the Elder Men didn’t attempt to stop him.

He entered the court alone.

Although nobody from Snow Territory was responsible for the current situation, the Elder Men secretly rejoiced at this unexpected turn of events. It was a stroke of luck. They were preparing to return to Snow Territory soon, as there was currently no leader in place, and the situation there had spiraled out of control. If City Lord could return promptly, it would undoubtedly help improve the situation.

Ouyang Mingjing proceeded into the court alone, requesting a meeting.

News of his arrival reached Fengxian Palace as well.

“What is he doing here? I don’t have time to see him. I’ll see him when I have the opportunity,” Zhou Huaijin snapped, displaying his displeasure. He truly disliked the man, and hearing this news only added to his irritation.

“Mr. Head, it concerns the Queen’s poison,” Fu Bao reminded him. He was present at the moment, seeking permission for a particular matter.

“He knows about the poison?”

Zhou Huaijin’s expression grew serious.

He did believe that Ouyang Mingjing had knowledge of the poison. In fact, Zhou Huaijin couldn’t help but suspect that Ouyang Mingjing had deliberately appeared on their wedding night precisely because of his awareness of the poison. Although he had a strong aversion to the man, for the sake of Gu Chaoyan, he couldn’t simply dismiss him.

“Let him come in,” Zhou Huaijin reluctantly instructed, his displeasure evident.