CHAPTER 130: CHAPTER 130: THE EMPRESS’S FOX TAIL

From Shi Guiren’s words, Xin Lin roughly understood that Qingtian Academy must be akin to a modern-day academy for nobles.

As for why Sikong Ran hadn’t attended Qingtian Academy earlier, it may have been due to his background.

If she truly acknowledged her adoptive father, would she not be qualified to enter Qingtian Academy?

If she could join the academy, she wouldn’t have to worry about Spirit Art and Martial Arts, nor fret over not having sufficient Heaven-defying Value.

"It looks like this year’s Zixiao Palace Exam will be incredibly exciting. Brother, let’s also sign up for the Zixiao Palace Exam, perhaps we can both get into Qingtian Academy."

Little Xinzhuo was brimming with enthusiasm.

He is a Spirit Warrior, only his life was short-lived in his previous life, and he never had his Spirit Root properly tested before his premature death, so this is a perfect opportunity; he too wishes to cultivate alongside his Sister.

"Ah Zhuo, you are a Prince. Once you meet your Emperor father, you can reclaim your ancestry. Princes can directly join Qingtian Academy, what are you so anxious about?"

Xin Lin said teasingly.

"I don’t want to be any Prince. I want to stay with Brother."

Little Xinzhuo pouted, his large eyes filled with reluctance.

Although he was young, he knew that should he truly recognize that father in the Imperial Palace, he would have to part ways with Xin Lin.

"You little guy, can’t you be more ambitious? I’m still looking forward to the day you’ll rise and cover for me, allowing me to stride boldly across Longteng Country. Staying with me, what accomplishments can you achieve?"

Xin Lin laughed and playfully knocked on Little Xinzhuo’s head.

"Brother, even if I’m not a Prince, I can still properly cultivate and become a Great Spirit Master, then still cover for you to stride boldly across Longteng Country without anyone daring to bully you, making Sikong Ran cry for his parents."

Little Xinzhuo clenched his tiny fists, his face full of resolve.

Sitting beside them, Shi Guiren sighed deeply.

She wasn’t sure whether her return to Purple Cloud City this time was right or wrong.

If possible, she truly wished to leave the Imperial Palace forever, taking these two children with her to live a carefree life.

"Make way, make way."

A clamor arose, and a group of Imperial Palace guards approached.

Xin Lin quickly pulled Shi Guiren and Little Xinzhuo aside to a corner.

They saw two wanted posters being affixed to the announcement board.

Xin Lin looked closely; those on the announcement board were indeed Xin Zhuo and his mother.

"Empress Xuan decrees, wanted for two criminals..."

Shi Guiren’s face paled; the Empress had discovered they weren’t dead.

Throughout the journey, she had been anxious, and now her biggest fear had materialized.

The three exchanged glances and quickly avoided the crowd.

"The Empress must have found out we aren’t dead. What are we to do now?"

Shi Guiren murmured, uncertain of the next steps.

"It’s not entirely bad news. At least, we’re certain now that the person behind the plot to assassinate you and your son is the Empress."

Xin Lin asserted confidently.

"What’s the use of knowing? She is the Empress, and as of now, I’m merely someone convicted of a crime; it’s not only difficult to contend with the Empress, but even seeing the Emperor is a challenge. I... it’s all my fault, I’ve dragged you both down,"

Shi Guiren said disconsolately.

"Noble, you underestimate yourself too much. Though you are but a weak woman, you are not alone."

Xin Lin winked.

Shi Guiren was taken aback, not understanding the implication behind Xin Lin’s words.

"A lean camel is bigger than a horse, don’t forget, General Shi is a veteran of three dynasties, an illustrious figure in the military."

Xin Lin said gravely.