Two days later,

Meng Zhilu embarked on her journey to the Jade Dragon Palace, the residence of the young prince, Rong Wang. She traveled in a grand Shen clan carriage, her heart pounding with anticipation as she contemplated the true purpose of her visit.

It was rumored that Rong Wang possessed the Soul Dew magic potion, a mystical concoction created by Xianxia who is the master of YouHuang City (the City of Yellow Poison)

The Soul Dew possessed extraordinary properties. Odorless, colorless, and tasteless, it worked its magic through the bloodstream, swiftly seizing control of the victim's mind within seconds. The enslaved individual would then obey the potion user's every command. Its rarity stemmed from the precious ingredients and intricate extraction process involved. A single drop was effective for half an hour, ample time to kill or manipulate a target. She would use this potion on Shen Zhongting when the time was right, commanding him to end his own life!

The Shen estate was situated five li north of the city center. Meng Zhilu's carriage rolled southward, the rhythmic clatter of its wheels echoing through the bustling streets. Finally, it arrived at the gates of the Jade Dragon Palace.

When arrived, after a brief wait at the palace gates, Meng Zhilu informed the eunuch of her purpose and was escorted to the guesthouse. It nestled amidst a tranquil garden, beyond the Moon Gate, where the female member of the palace lives, leading to the inner chambers for guests.

Meng Zhilu hadn't waited long before the handsome young prince entered with regal grace, stopping before her. His presence was so striking that Meng Zhilu could scarcely breathe.

Today, he wore a black, wide-sleeved robe adorned with a golden dragon motif. His inky hair was tied into a topknot, secured with a golden band intricately patterned. Sharp eyes, though cold, were offset by a seductive smile playing on his lips. His strong brows and prominent nose accentuated his handsome features, further enhanced by his fair complexion. His god-like beauty captivated Meng Zhilu, her heart pounding uncontrollably as their gazes met.

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In her past life, He had always been like this...

"Shen Huyin, welcome. Please, have some tea before we begin our discussion," Rong Wang greeted, settling into a padding seat in front of her. His smooth, deep voice jolted Meng Zhilu from her reverie.

Ah, yes, thank you,' she stammered, momentarily flustered. It took her a few moments to regain her composure and acknowledge the prince's invitation to drink tea.

Meng Zhilu lifted the cup's lid and sponged it, before lifting it to a delicate sip. "Hmm... if I'm not mistaken, this is the renowned Four Seasons Wulong tea of Wuzhou City?" she remarked, using her knowledge of tea to mask her earlier lapse in composure. Flattery was a useful tool, especially when dealing with royalty.

The Four Seasons of Wulong tea was prized for its rarity. Young shoots had to be plucked at one time per year, resulting in a limited yield. A single plantation might produce less than ten catties of these delicate leaves. Its steep price reflected not only its scarcity but also its exceptional flavor. The first leaves of Wulong tea possessed a subtle astringency, distinct from the bolder flavors of later harvests. As one savored the tea, the astringency gradually gave way to a lingering sweetness on the tongue, while a delicate fragrance filled the senses, leaving the drinker refreshed and quenched.

She thought to herself in mind, 'Such extravagance from a prince. Has amnesia turned him into a spendthrift? How infuriating.'

Meanwhile, the southern region was ravaged by floods, leaving countless people homeless and destitute. Farmland was submerged, and an epidemic claimed many lives.

While The emperor and the crown prince urgently mobilized aid for the south, Rong Wang who is the favored royal prince indulged in ostentatious displays of wealth. Meng Zhilu found it utterly shameful. But even though she felt frustrated, she still had to wear a mask. Pretending to flatter his rich tastes. "It must be true; this taste is the tea of Wuzhou City."

Rong Wang responded casually, 'Yes, Shen Huyin, your guess is correct. This is indeed Four Seasons of Wulong tea. How did you discern it?' He feigned curiosity.

Meng Zhilu smiled. 'I recognized it from the first sip when I visited the prince's consort of Rong Ler Palace. Having the opportunity to savor it again today is a true delight,' she said playfully.