78 The Golden Bird (2/2)

With the abrupt ending to the story, the emperor couldn't help but frowned before he questioned Hongyue, ”Is that the end?”

Hongyue shook her head lightly, ”No, the strange thing was not even one of the other birds seemed to realize that the crow was an imposter even though it was obviously a crow. Do you know why?”

Her tone of voice sounded like she knew the answer, and the emperor felt curious to know.

”Why?” The emperor probed.

Hongyue paused, a silly smile started to cross over her face, ”Hongyue doesn't know either. It's just a simple story. Hm, do you know why?”

Everyone in the room seemed to be baffled by Hongyue's question, all but the third prince and the Empress. Jiayi's face grew grave, and he fiddled with his teacup, not looking up. Meanwhile, the Empress's fist was stiffening into a ball. Her eyebrows were creased, and her eyes were narrowed. Her hand had long abandoned her fan, and there was no denying the menacing expression on her delicate face.

Why?

There was no need to ask why.

The other birds only cared for the golden feathers and nothing more than that. That was why the other birds didn't know the real bird died.

The Empress's gaze intensified as she felt her blood boiling. She had kept telling herself not to be pulled in and overthink. Nevertheless, this could be no overthinking. It was plain and simple. Wasn't the golden bird her? This little wench was talking about her, wasn't she? This eldest miss acted so foolishly, but there was no coincidence so apparent in the world.

The eldest miss's story was mocking her.

She was the golden bird.

And that crow...the Empress's eyes widened before an elegant expression came across her face, hiding her true intentions.

”This story is indeed interesting. Why don't I reward you?”