Chapter 218.2
As for why everyone assumed it was a matter of succession and not Emperor Jin’an having another child himself, the crown prince’s condition had been deteriorating for many years. If Emperor Jin’an had wanted another heir, he would have had one long ago.
In the midst of everyone’s excitement, the Qing Wang Shizi, Zhao Yan, who had been away at the border, returned to Qing Wang Manor.
Despite being the eldest son of Qing Wang, the shizi had never been favoured by his father even when he was still a child. Consort Qing, Qing Wang’s wife, secluded herself in prayer and rarely appeared in public. On the other hand, Side Consort Han, whose surname was Han, was frequently seen outside the manor. Most people knew of Side Consort Han’s existence in Qing Wang Manor, but few were aware that there was also a main consort.
And this shizi was the son of Consort Qing.
In fact, such situations were not uncommon in the various noble households. In simpler terms, the Western wind suppressed the Eastern wind, so sons born in such circumstances were not highly favoured.
However, this Qing Wang Shizi possessed both literary and martial talents, which had gained him favour with Emperor Jin’an. Three years ago, he was sent to guard the border, disappearing from public view. Therefore, when rumours circulated in the capital about the potential candidates for the position of the crown prince, he was not even considered.
It was only when Zhao Yan returned that many people remembered the existence of Qing Wang Shizi.
Emperor Jin’an, known for his decisiveness, quickly issued an edict to make Zhao Yan his adopted son and proclaimed him the crown prince.
In Qing Wang Manor, Side Consort Han couldn’t help but complain to Qing Wang, “This concubine told you long ago that His Majesty’s feelings for you are different. You should have asked His Majesty to adopt Sheng’er instead. But no, you kept hesitating and now look, it has benefited him.”