Bai Jinshu reacted swiftly, retracting the antidote into Heaven's Eye before Ao Jing could raise her hand.
However, the Emperor Emeritus's condition was critical. Any further delay would likely lead to fatal poisoning.
"I have a way to cure the Emperor Emeritus's illness."
Upon hearing this, everyone was momentarily stunned.
Ao Jing was the first to react, scoffing disdainfully. "Bai Jinshu, have you lost your mind? So many Imperial Physicians in the palace have been unable to cure Grandfather's illness. What do you know about medicine to dare make such bold claims?"
The Imperial Physicians kneeling on the ground looked up, realizing the words had come from the Princess Consort of Jing—a mere girl of sixteen or seventeen. They couldn't help but sigh inwardly, thinking that women raised in the Dajin State truly knew no bounds. Did she not understand the gravity of the situation or her own limitations, to casually claim she could treat the Emperor Emeritus?
Zongzheng Ling's gaze also shifted toward her. His expression remained indifferent, revealing little emotion, but his eyes were deep and inscrutable, making it impossible to discern his true thoughts.
"Jinshu, the Emperor Emeritus's illness is not as simple as you think."
Emperor Jiaqing looked at Bai Jinshu with a stern gaze, his voice carrying an authoritative tone without anger. "You should step outside and wait."
He completely dismissed Bai Jinshu's words.
"Jing'er."
The Empress signaled Ao Jing with her eyes, urging him to quickly escort his Princess Consort out.
What kind of time was this to be causing trouble here!
Receiving his mother's message, Ao Jing immediately grabbed Bai Jinshu and tried to pull her away. Bai Jinshu forcefully broke free from his grip, turned to face Emperor Jiaqing, and spoke with utmost seriousness, "Your Majesty, I stake my life on this. I can definitely cure the Emperor Emeritus's illness. If I fail, you may hold me accountable—whether to execute or punish me, I will not utter a word of protest. But we cannot afford to waste any more time. Otherwise, it will truly be too late!"
"Bai Jinshu!"
Before Emperor Jiaqing could speak, Ao Jing erupted in anger. "If you want to die, go die somewhere far away. Do not dare harm Grandfather. He has already suffered enough from his illness. How could you be so malicious as to try to harm him further?"
As he spoke, he seized Bai Jinshu's wrist and yanked her backward forcefully. Bai Jinshu stumbled, but a steadying force supported her from behind, preventing her from falling.
It was Zongzheng Ling.
Bai Jinshu glanced back at him, her emotions somewhat complicated.
"Are you alright?" Zongzheng Ling asked with a calm expression.
"I'm fine, thank you."
Bai Jinshu expressed her gratitude. Seeing this, Ao Jing grew even more displeased, his anger barely contained. Just as he was about to reach for Bai Jinshu again, a sharp reprimand echoed through the room.
"Enough!"
It was Imperial Noble Consort Xiaoxian. She glared coldly at Ao Jing and chastised him in front of Emperor Jiaqing. "Prince Jing, how could you treat your own Princess Consort so roughly? She merely wishes to treat the Emperor Emeritus. Even if she lacks the ability to cure him, her intentions are filial. What crime has she committed to deserve such harsh words from you?"
"…"
Ao Jing's face turned extremely grim. Though resentful, he dared not openly defy the Imperial Noble Consort in Emperor Jiaqing's presence. He could only swallow his anger for now, thinking he would deal with this wretched woman slowly once they returned to the estate.
"Jinshu, come here."
After admonishing Ao Jing, the Imperial Noble Consort’s expression softened slightly before she turned to Bai Jinshu. Her voice was gentle yet tinged with urgency: "Tell your maternal grandmother, do you truly have a way to cure your maternal grandfather?"
"Yes."
Bai Jinshu replied with two resolute words.
Seeing her so confident, the Imperial Physicians exchanged uncertain glances.
How could it be possible?
This young girl was too naive. No matter how skilled she was in medicine, could she surpass all the Imperial Physicians in the palace?
Absolutely impossible!
"This prince believes her."