Starting in Exile: Transmigrated as the Crown Prince's Lucky Little Wife

Chapter 138 Xiao Han Summons Ministers to Abdicate

In the days that followed, Xiao Han, like a busy bee, devoted himself entirely to the preparations for his abdication. He acted with extreme caution, first choosing a dark and windy night to secretly summon his loyal and trusted ministers. These ministers were usually influential figures in the court, but at this moment, Xiao Han summoned them to a secret room.

When Xiao Han solemnly announced his decision to abdicate to the assembled ministers, they were all utterly astonished. Nevertheless, they understood and appreciated the deeper meaning behind Xiao Han's actions and Xiao Jingchuan's governing abilities. Therefore, after a brief silence, the ministers bowed and expressed their full support for Xiao Han's momentous decision.

With the support of his trusted ministers, Xiao Han felt somewhat relieved. He immediately ordered the Ministry of Rites to begin preparations for the upcoming enthronement ceremony. The officials of the Ministry of Rites, upon receiving the decree, dared not delay and acted swiftly. They meticulously planned every aspect of the ceremony, from the order of the emperor's appearance and the standardization of ceremonial movements to the specific procedures for offering sacrifices to Heaven and praying for blessings—everything was repeatedly considered and carefully refined. Furthermore, they sought perfection in the decoration and arrangement of the palace interior, ensuring it both displayed imperial majesty and conveyed an atmosphere of joy and peace.

Time flies, and before we knew it, the day arrived for the formal abdication and enthronement ceremony. The entire palace of the Nanzhao Kingdom seemed to be enveloped in a dazzling light, with lanterns and decorations everywhere, creating a lively and festive scene. Brightly colored silk ribbons hung between the red walls and yellow tiles, swaying gently in the breeze; on both sides of the palace gates, pots of delicate flowers were placed, emitting a rich fragrance.

By this time, the spacious square in front of the palace was already packed with people. Civil and military officials, all dressed in magnificent and solemn court robes, stood in neat rows according to their rank. Each of them was solemn and upright, silently awaiting the arrival of that important moment. On the faces of these officials, two distinct expressions were clearly visible: on one hand, a deep reluctance to part with their former master, Xiao Han, whom they had served for many years; on the other hand, an eager anticipation for the new emperor, Xiao Jingchuan, who was about to ascend the throne.

Meanwhile, the square was teeming with people. Hearing of the day's events, countless ordinary citizens, filled with curiosity and awe, flocked from all directions. They stood on tiptoe, craning their necks, eager to catch a glimpse of this grand ceremony and experience firsthand its unique atmosphere—solemn yet joyous and celebratory.

Accompanied by the melodious and clear sound of the bell, which echoed in the air like heavenly music, Xiao Han, surrounded by a group of well-trained and respectful eunuchs and dignified and gentle palace maids, took steady and solemn steps and slowly stepped onto the high and wide platform in front of the palace.

At this moment, Xiao Han's deep and bright eyes seemed to contain endless love and deep satisfaction.

His gaze, like the warm sunshine of spring, gently swept over the densely packed subjects below the stage, and a myriad of emotions welled up in his heart.

Xiao Han then spoke in his loud, steady, and powerful voice: "My dear subjects, on this special day, I wish to solemnly announce a crucial decision to you all."

His words had barely left his lips when they exploded like a thunderclap across the entire square, echoing for a long time.

"Since my ascension to the throne, I have been on the throne for many years. During this long period, our great Nanzhao Kingdom, with the concerted efforts and unremitting hard work of all my beloved ministers and subjects, has finally stepped onto the road to prosperity and strength."

However, I am keenly aware that for a country to enjoy lasting peace and stability and continue to develop, it must constantly inject fresh vitality and boundless wisdom.

Therefore, after careful consideration, I have decided, from this very moment, to formally abdicate and pass this supreme throne to my beloved son, Crown Prince Xiao Jingchuan.

Xiao Han's earth-shattering words were like a boulder thrown into a calm lake, instantly creating ripples.

The previously quiet and orderly crowd below the stage suddenly became restless, with shouts of surprise rising and falling.

However, this surprise was only for a very brief moment.

Immediately, the ministers standing at the front reacted first, kneeling down without hesitation and shouting in unison, "Long live the Emperor! Long live the Crown Princess!" At the same time, the ordinary people gathered around the square also hurriedly followed suit, bowing and shouting "Long live the Emperor!" The sound shook the heavens, creating an incredibly magnificent atmosphere.

At this moment of great anticipation, Xiao Jingchuan, with a smile on his face and a calm and confident demeanor, steadily stepped onto the high platform under the expectant and awe-inspiring gazes of the crowd.

Xiao Jingchuan wore a magnificent black robe, its sleeves flowing like billowing clouds, the movement of which seemed to stir up the wind and clouds. On the black robe, lifelike, menacing golden dragon patterns were meticulously embroidered with gold thread, each line shimmering with dazzling light, as if they were alive and meandering through the fabric.

He wore a heavy and solemn crown on his head, with a beaded curtain swaying and obscuring his face. But through the gaps, one could see his bright and piercing eyes, his gaze firm and deep, revealing an innate kingly aura.

He walked steadily to Xiao Han, then knelt down without hesitation, his movements elegant yet filled with utmost piety.

He raised his head, his eyes filled with sincere gratitude and deep respect as he looked at Xiao Han. His voice trembled slightly as he said, "Father, I hereby swear that I will never fail your high expectations of me. Even if it means going through fire and water, I will protect our Nanzhao Kingdom and ensure its long-term peace, stability, prosperity, and strength!"

Seeing this, Xiao Han's face showed relief, and he quickly reached out to help Xiao Jingchuan up. Then, he carefully took out a crystal-clear jade seal with a warm luster from his bosom, and personally handed it to Xiao Jingchuan, earnestly instructing him: "Jingchuan, this is the imperial jade seal of my Nanzhao Kingdom. It not only symbolizes the supreme imperial power, but also carries the expectations and trust of countless people for you."

From this day forward, you are the ruler of the Nanzhao Kingdom. Remember, you must not be complacent in the slightest. Always bear in mind the heavy responsibility you bear, and prioritize the interests of the people in all matters, governing the country with fairness and justice.

Xiao Jingchuan looked solemn and respectfully accepted the heavy jade seal with both hands, as if accepting a mountain.

He nodded heavily, replying firmly, "Your subject will heed Your Majesty's teachings and will never forget them!" With that, he slowly turned to face the sea of ​​people below, took a deep breath, and, gathering his inner strength, announced loudly, "From this day forward, I will officially inherit the throne and become the new monarch of the Nanzhao Kingdom! I will certainly work diligently and conscientiously to achieve the prosperity and strength of the Nanzhao Kingdom, and to ensure that all people live a peaceful and prosperous life, devoting all my heart and soul to this cause!"

The moment the words were spoken, a deafening roar of applause and cheers erupted from the audience. People were moved to tears, raising their arms and shouting, the waves of sound rising higher and higher, echoing throughout the palace for a long, lingering time.

Meanwhile, during the preparations for the coronation ceremony, Gu Liuli frequently moved between various parts of the palace.

A young palace maid, responsible for arranging the phoenix robe, presented it to Gu Liuli with eyes full of amazement. The bright red of the phoenix robe was dazzling, as if it had incorporated the sunset glow of the sky.

The phoenix embroidered with gold thread shimmered in the sunlight, each feather seemingly imbued with life, each feather distinct and separate.

The young palace maid's hands trembled slightly as she carefully held the phoenix robe, her voice tinged with nervousness and reverence: "Your Highness, this phoenix robe... is truly magnificent." Gu Liuli smiled gently, her eyes filled with tenderness: "Thank you for your hard work. This phoenix robe is indeed exquisite, carrying the glory of the royal family."

When Gu Liuli, dressed in a wind-blown robe, slowly entered the main hall, the previously noisy hall instantly fell silent.

An elderly minister widened his eyes slightly as he looked at Gu Liuli and whispered to his colleague beside him, "Look at this Crown Princess, dressed in a flowing robe, with such graceful bearing, she is truly a blessing to the nation." His colleague nodded in agreement, "Indeed, with such a virtuous Crown Princess, His Highness the Crown Prince will surely be able to govern the country well."

After the coronation ceremony, Xiao Jingchuan immediately threw himself into his busy political affairs.