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The Emperor's eyes churned as he closed them, then opened them with a calm demeanor, "You mean to say someone kidnapped you and sent an imposter in your place?"

The Fifth Prince knew he must not reveal too much; the more he disclosed, the quicker his end would be. And of course, he was also aware that his words would not convince anyone. It was merely an excuse, but he steeled himself and said, "Yes."

As for how much his father the Emperor and his brothers knew, he need not know. He only needed to understand that he had already exposed too much, and that he must be even more cautious in the future.

The Emperor laughed, a mocking laugh. What an insincere excuse! It seemed they were counting on his tacit acceptance. Indeed, the timing wasn't right—this was just the tip of the iceberg. Yet his heart seethed with rage. Bloody hell, he had to comply. "How will you prove your identity?"