Forensic Imperial Concubine novel Chapter 186

A deafening silence enveloped the hall. Not a word was spoken as Matthew sat quietly. The people in the hall were painfully aware of the real intent behind the proposal, and the air rippled with a tense breath.

No one dared mock Matthew. Despite his disability, he was still a prince, and was entitled to his right to consider the proposition of marriage.

He had the military forces of the entire country under his command. A single word from him was all it would take to end anyone who dared offend him.

Harper trembled as she knelt on the floor, the muscles of her limbs growing numb. Franklin stood up as he noticed the slight tremors that racked her stooped frame. Mustering his courage, he opened his mouth to speak and help her, but before the words left his mouth, Matthew moved his lips and answered, "It is an honor. You have my gratitude, Your Majesty." With these words, his answer was clear. Every single person present knew that Harper was nothing but a pawn. Whether she would survive or perish was uncertain. All that she could do was pray that fate would give her mercy.

"Ha-ha, Matthew, as long as you're satisfied with it, it will be my greatest pleasure. Hansen had called off his engagement to Harper, but she is a woman of talent and beauty, not to mention that she is the daughter of Prime Minister Charles and the vice director of Imperial Academy of Medicine. She is befitting of your rank and status," the emperor said, his tone belying his greater intention. Before Harper, three women who were Matthew's betrothed had died before they even had a chance to enter his mansion. It was clear that Harper was caught in between a dangerous power struggle. Her next move would be crucial—her life was hanging on delicate strings and she would have to tread carefully.

All the officials present did not need any explanation. They knew their emperor all too well to see through his facade. The emperor was delighted in the humiliation of his brother; thus he mentioned Harper's engagement to Hansen. The relationship between the two brothers was a tragic sight. Matthew had risked his life to prove his innocence and fought to serve the emperor, only to end up crippled. The emperor's cruelty to his own brother was almost odious, but the people present did not have to option to avert their eyes from the scene.

Matthew, however, seemed as if he had no idea of it. "Thank you, Your Majesty," he said.

"Harper," Charles called out, "surely you would also like to express your gratitude to His Majesty and His Highness."

Harper gritted her teeth but complied with the silent command. "Thank you, Your Majesty."

"Very well. Today is a fortunate day for my dear brother. Matthew, I have always been worried about you remaining unmarried for a long time, but this day puts my troubles at rest. It is my great happiness to see you accept this proposal. We must get to the marriage preparations quickly. I will send my eunuch for the imperial edict immediately. Where's the imperial astronomer?"

"Your Majesty! I'm Floyd, the imperial astronomer."

"When would be the ideal day to hold the wedding?" the emperor asked with a bright smile.

"Your Majesty, the sixth day of the Lunar New Year would be an auspicious time for a marriage. It would bring the pair good fortune," Floyd answered after thinking for a while.

"The sixth day of the Lunar New Year? Great. Then, let's choose the day! Now, where is the head of the Ministry of Rites?"