It didn't make much for a wise person to understand the Emperor's feelings about Ao Chenyi. Ning Xueyan heard, way back when she was in the Lord Protector's Manor, that the Emperor was in poor health, a stark contrast to Ao Chenyi's youthful vigor. This was plenty of reason for him, especially when Ao Mingyu and Ao Mingwan weren't worthy opponents for Ao Chenyi.

These factors made it very likely for the Emperor to use this opportunity to attack Ao Chenyi.

The ...