The Grandmaster Strategist

Roulan showed an expression of confusion. “Daddy, who is Lady Ling Yu?”

I now realized Roulan didn’t know about the events in Jiangnan and jumped to my feet, then paced around the study. It had already been over six hours since I’d left the Silver Peace Hall. According to prior arrangements, Ling Yu had certainly been bequeathed to some general. I’d promised Qiu Yufei I would take care of this woman. If something befell her, I would have no dignity left to see my friends.

Xiaoshunzi had gone out to convey orders. By the time he entered the study, I had calmed down and plainly stated, “Have Huyan Shou visit Jing Chi. Since Liu Rumeng is here with me, His Imperial Highness, the Prince of Qi, will most likely have given Ling Yu to Jing Chi. If she truly is there, tell Huyan Shou to demand her back. I presume Jing Chi won’t disrespect me.

“Roulan, check if the Bright Inspection Department has any relevant intelligence to submit. Ling Yu is a disciple of the Fengyi Sect as well as Yufei’s love. With this kind of status, the Bright Inspection Department will have records. If she’s on the tribute list, the news has definitely spread throughout Jiangnan. The Bright Inspection Department ought to have put forward a memorandum, but I don’t remember seeing any pertinent documents over the past few days. If it truly doesn’t exist, then the Bright Inspection Department has failed its duties.”

Roulan gave a remark of affirmation and walked over to the desk, beginning to leaf through the documents submitted by the Bright Inspection Department. After browsing for a while with her head down, she couldn’t resist sneaking a peek at her father, but she saw Xiaoshunzi gazing at her with a strange expression on his face. Trembling on the inside, she hurriedly evaded his gaze and continued searching. She knew she couldn’t find it, because she’d already hidden the document sent over by the Bright Inspection Department. Jiang Zhe had never paid much attention to the trivial affairs of this area, so she tricked him.

The room fell silent all of a sudden. There were no sounds other than the rustling of Roulan flipping through papers. I returned to my seat and attentively thought about the load on my mind. What misfortune has occurred to the Secret Camp? Why would there be no news of this event? I connected it to Liu Rumeng. Although I was sure the Secret Camp would definitely not betray me, I was beset by doubts. Right as I sank into deep thought, an imperial bodyguard came over to make a report, saying Qiu Yufei was outside seeking an audience.

I knitted my brows tightly. Why has Qiu Yufei come at this time? Hasn’t he gone into secluded meditation? It has been hard for information to get through for the past two years. By rights, he shouldn’t even know about Ling Yu. Could the Sovereign of the Devil Sect have let him out early? Letting Xiaoshunzi welcome the guest for me, I was tense and uneasy. I hoped Lady Ling Yu was fine, and if Li Xian truly bequeathed her to Jing Chi, it wouldn’t be a problem. Jing Chi may have been boorish, but he wasn’t a lecher. If Lady Ling Yu didn’t want it, he wouldn’t force her.

While I was mentally comforting myself, Xiaoshunzi was guiding Qiu Yufei into the study. I stood up to receive him. When my gaze landed on Qiu Yufei’s face, I shuddered, seeing his big and bright eyes devoid of light and his face wan. He looked like he’d suffered a severe injury. Slightly furrowing my brows, I walked up to him and placed my fingers on his pulse without asking. A long while later, I let out a sigh, raised my head, and said, “Yufei, how did you get injured so gravely? Moreover, it feels like you didn’t take good care of yourself. If you had come a few days later, I’m afraid you would have had to recuperate for several years.” I then turned my head. “Xiaoshunzi, bring over the medicine case and acupuncture needles. Roulan, return and tell Commander Huyan that no matter where the person is, they must be brought back. In addition, tell him that Jiang Zhe thanks him profusely and that tomorrow, I will personally call on him and apologize.”

Xiaoshunzi knew Jiang Zhe was being this vague because he didn’t want Qiu Yufei to exacerbate his injury with anxiety. Roulan was clever and obedient and wouldn’t give anything away. The two people walked out the door. Once the door closed and hid them from Jiang Zhe’s gaze, Xiaoshunzi’s eyes turned cold, and he gazed at Roulan with shining eyes, but he didn’t speak.

Roulan quivered on the inside and kneeled on the floor without making a sound, a pleading look on her face. Xiaoshunzi hesitated for a moment before finally shaking his head gently. He walked off. Roulan knew Xiaoshunzi had agreed to not inquire into this matter, and a bright and beautiful smile appeared on her face. Standing to her feet, she trotted to her own room. She still needed to spread the news that Qiu Yufei had arrived so Huo Cong could decide what the next step should be.

Once Xiaoshunzi brought back the medicine case and acupuncture needles, I had Qiu Yufei sit cross-legged on the soft couch in the study and loosen his clothes. First, I cleared his breathing and circulation with the acupuncture needles, then made him take the medicine I secretly concocted for treating internal injuries. The rest was up to him slowly convalescing and regulating his breathing. Once a Xiantian expert got injured, it was exceptionally difficult for them to make a full recovery.

The medical treatment concluded, Qiu Yufei got dressed, stood up, and expressed, “Many thanks to Suiyun for saving me.”

Astonished, I said, “When did Yufei become so aloof? You and I have been friends for many years. This one also has a little aptitude in medicine, so what sense would there be in not helping?”

“I’m thanking you, Suiyun, for saving Ling Yu,” Qiu Yufei replied sadly. “I heard the rumors upon entering the city that the female musicians the Southern Chu envoy presented were bequeathed to the generals of His Imperial Highness, the Prince of Qi. The two most outstanding were divided between Suiyun and the General Who Quelled the North, Jing Chi. Suiyun has never lusted after women. If not for saving Ling Yu, how could you accept this reward?”

I blushed with shame and thought in my head, Please wait until I send back Ling Yu before thanking me. To change the topic, I asked with a smile, “Yufei, on the subject of the best martial arts in the world, you’re in the top ten. Who was able to injure you so?” In reality, I was quite suspicious the sovereign of the Devil Sect injured him, so I greatly wanted to find out.

Qiu Yufei seemed to comprehend my suspicion and shook his head, briefly stating, “It wasn’t Honorable Master.” I breathed a sigh of relief and was about to ask another question when Qiu Yufei surprisingly said dejectedly, “It was eldest apprentice brother who gravely wounded me.”

I nearly failed to breathe. Once I finally managed to calm down, I knew without asking that Qiu Yufei definitely knew about Ling Yu and secretly escaped. The sovereign of the Devil Sect always kept his word and was certainly infuriated. Dispatching Duan Lingxiao to capture Qiu Yufei was sensible. It was not necessary to ask for further details, but I didn’t know who had passed the information on to Qiu Yufei, so I asked, “Yufei has been in secluded meditation for two years, ignoring worldly affairs. Even this one’s letters sink like a stone in the sea. I wonder, who delivered this information to Yufei’s hands?”

Doubt flickered in Qiu Yufei’s eyes, and he asked, “Could it be that you did not send Chiji to bear the news? When I heard the news, I stole away. Midway, eldest apprentice brother intercepted me. To escape, I had no choice but to take a palm strike from eldest apprentice brother. Fortunately, eldest apprentice brother showed mercy, else I’m afraid I would’ve died on the journey.”

I couldn’t help asking, “Has elder young master Duan also come to Hefei?”

“I fear he’ll make trouble for you,” Qiu Yufei responded with some embarrassment. “Eldest apprentice brother is following Honorable Master’s orders and absolutely won’t let me go. I fear he’ll soon arrive in Hefei.”

Myriad questions arose in my head. What in the world were the operatives of the Secret Camp doing? They didn’t tell me about Ling Yu, but they expended so much effort to tell Yufei. They even dragged in Chiji, who’d already retired from the Secret Camp. Just as I began pondering the oddities, Huyan Shou hurried in and reported, “Your Lordship, Lady Ling Yu was indeed with General Jing. However, after this general went over, I learned the Prince of Jia took her away. This general met with the Prince of Jia, and the Prince is unwilling to let her go.”

An explosion went off in my mind, and I couldn’t be concerned with seeing Qiu Yufei’s face instantly become chilling and threatening. I angrily said, “What’s Li Lin doing? He’s so young, yet he’s also interested in women?”

Huyan Shou lowered his head. “Your Lordship, this general asked tactfully and heard the Prince of Jia’s bodyguards say that after the Prince learned that woman was a remnant of the Fengyi Sect, he became spiteful. The Prince said that if it weren’t for the Fengyi Sect riling up a rebellion, his birth mother wouldn’t have been blamed, so he wants to kill her out of spite.”

Before I could react, Qiu Yufei sternly asked, “Suiyun, what’s going on?”

Ashamed, I replied, “Yufei, please forgive my oversight. I just learned Lady Ling Yu was also on the tribute list, so I ordered Commander Huyan to get her back.”

Qiu Yufei trembled at the words and gazed at me coolly, his eyes full of suspicion. I knew it was hard for him to believe my words. If Chiji could deliver him the news, how could I not know? I was about to give him an explanation when he flicked a sleeve and departed, his expression grim as if he were rather calm. He pushed the door and exited, but after he disappeared behind the door, the thick wood door splintered to pieces before my eyes. I stared in astonishment at the chips of wood about the size of a palm, and I grew fearful. Chaos reigned in my head. I was always used to the feeling of controlling all the events around me. All the developments happening today were out of my control. It truly left me at a loss.

Stunned for an indeterminate amount of time, I then stood up and said in a loud voice, “Xiaoshunzi, come with me to Li Lin’s place now. Let’s hope there’s room to remedy things. Why has Li Lin caused such a disturbance?” I mentally regretted that I might have overlooked the darkness in Li Lin’s heart while hoping Ling Yu would be safe and sound. If Qiu Yufei and Li Lin clashed, it would be a gargantuan disaster. On second thought, even if Ling Yu were unharmed, if Duan Lingxiao pursued him here, how should it be handled? A host of miscellaneous problems were on my mind, and I got a splitting headache.

Xiaoshunzi didn’t make a sound, simply giving orders to prepare a carriage. He guarded Jiang Zhe as they departed, bringing along around seventy percent of the household’s imperial bodyguards as well. After all, the following events might be extremely thorny.

Qiu Yufei left Jiang Zhe’s residence in a blank state of mind. Just then, his abrupt rage made him flick his sleeve and leave. When he felt the cold wind blow against him outside, he calmed down. Upon contemplation, he felt like Jiang Zhe would never play any tricks. Although he knew Jiang Zhe took exception to things between Ling Yu and himself, if Jiang Zhe intended to harm Ling Yu, he wouldn’t wait until today.

Qiu Yufei didn’t know what mishaps had occurred, but it was more important to go to the Prince of Jia’s location first to save Ling Yu. However, when he looked around, he didn’t know how to get to the official residence of the Prince of Jia, Li Lin. He wanted to return to ask Jiang Zhe, but he felt like he had no dignity left. Further, Jiang Zhe and the Prince of Jia were relatives anyhow, which always had more pull than an outsider like him. He stomped his feet and decided to find a soldier to ask for directions. In any case, Yong soldiers were now spread all throughout the city of Hefei.

Just as he was about to walk off, a soldier dressed in the uniform of the Stalwart Tiger Guard ran up to him from behind and shouted, “Fourth young master, wait a moment. This subordinate has orders from the Marquis to lead the way for fourth young master.”

Qiu Yufei was taken aback. His gaze landed on the face of the guard and remembered he’d just seen him in Jiang Zhe’s residence. He felt warm on the inside, but he sternly asked, “What did Jiang Zhe say?”

The imperial bodyguard saluted and answered, “The Marquis instructed this one to lead the fourth young master to the Prince of Jia. His Lordship said that though the Prince of Jia is young, he is remarkably tolerant. He shouldn’t have truly harmed Lady Ling Yu. He also asked that fourth young master not overly worry and proceed with caution. After fourth young master has rescued her, His Lordship will explain the misunderstanding to fourth young master.”

Qiu Yufei was slightly relieved by the response. “Lead the way, then.”

The imperial bodyguard seemed to have a good head on his shoulders and led Qiu Yufei through streets and alleys. In not quite the amount of time it took for two sticks of incense to burn, they arrived at a strongly guarded mansion. Qiu Yufei was about to ask the bodyguard if this was the place when he heard familiar, beautiful zither music carried over by the wind. It was “O, the Integrity of the Orchid,” the piece he’d given Ling Yu pointers on. The original meaning was a lament on one’s fate, an indulgence in self-admiration. However, when Qiu Yufei heard it now, he felt like the plaintive and pining zither notes contained a hint of yearning.

He was a master of melody, and his thoughts changed. He knew that between Ling Yu and him, his love was not unrequited. If not for Ling Yu also adoring him, she wouldn’t be playing this piece with such a wistful feeling. The zither gave voice to the heart, so tenderness and sentimentality were added to this originally tragic tune. Listening, Qiu Yufei grew infatuated and forgot about everything, standing in the cold wind dumbstruck. He regretted leaving in such a hurry he didn’t even bring his zither. Otherwise, he definitely would have immediately played a piece to tell Ling Yu about how lovesick he’d been for the past two years.

The zither music slowly faded away. Qiu Yufei’s figure flickered, and he leaped over the high wall. His body appeared illusory as he flitted past many pavilions. The protection inside the mansion wasn’t strict, with barely any obstacles.

Right at this time, the zither music started again. This time, the zither piece was “Song of Abandonment,” mournful but not sullen, yet subtle and gentle. The music flowed like water, the zither player’s sorrow and misery pouring forth without restraint. Qiu Yufei instantly felt like he understood the entire past of a displaced young woman wandering from place to place. He felt his breathing and circulation churning in his chest, and a gob of blood surged up his throat, but he forcefully swallowed it back down. He was her soul mate, so the infinite sorrow in the music was able to hurt him the most.

By the time he finally found the drawing room Ling Yu was in among the myriad pavilions by following the zither music, a key change suddenly occurred in the music, sounding even more like the cutting of ties. Qiu Yufei was shocked and soared through the air, leaving no snowprints on the ground as he sailed toward the drawing room. He completely ignored the exclamations of surprise coming from around him and the whistles of alarm sounding one after another. He kicked the entrance of the drawing room to pieces and gazed in, spotting Ling Yu, unseen for two years, sitting straight and playing the zither. The smoke from the burning ends of the incense in the incense burner next to the zither curled upwards, the three sticks already burned all the way down. In front of Ling Yu was a young man in black clothes brandishing a sharp sword and pointing it at Ling Yu’s throat. Ling Yu wore an expression of placid indifference. She wasn’t looking at the sword, as if she’d discounted her life. However, Qiu Yufei knew from the recent key change that Ling Yu was filled with indignation.

Qiu Yufei burst in, alarming everyone in the pavilion. The zither music broke off, and pleasant surprise filled Ling Yu’s face. The look in her eyes changed constantly, sometimes worried, sometimes comforted.

Qiu Yufei threw his gaze around and saw two middle-aged imperial bodyguards in the drawing room in addition to Ling Yu and the young man. Both bodyguards had grave bearings, distress in their eyes. They were blocking his way with the might of a mountain. One of them angrily inquired, “Who is sire? Why have you broken into the Prince of Jia’s mansion?”

Qiu Yufei’s icy gaze passed through both men and landed on the young man in black. He coldly asked, “Li Lin, are you the one who plans to kill Qiu Yufei’s fiancée, my fiancée?”

An odd expression appeared on Li Lin’s face. His eyes shimmering, he said, “Why would Uncle Qiu ask that? This woman is a remnant of the Fengyi Sect. This Prince wishes to kill her to take revenge for my birth mother. The Devil Sect and the Fengyi Sect are foes. How could she be Uncle’s wife?”

“The Prince of Jia needs not take an interest in my relationship with her,” Qiu Yufei angrily declared. “I only ask: Are you willing to let me take her away?”

Li Lin sneered, “This Prince keeps his promises. Not even you, fourth young master, can change this Prince’s intentions. You see the incense burner? Just before, this Prince made Lady Ling Yu a promise, allowing her to play her bejeweled zither again before death. Her head would hit the floor when the incense burned out. Now that the incense has burned to the end and the woman is still alive, this Prince has broken his promise. It would be better for fourth young master to quickly leave this place. For the sake of the Sovereign of the Devil Sect and my uncle, I won’t pursue sire for the crime of breaking into my mansion.”

Qiu Yufei’s heart froze. He’d met the young prince in Jiang Zhe’s residence before and knew his resolve to kill was even stronger than the Prince of Qi’s resolve in his prime. If the prince were set on murdering Ling Yu, even if he risked his life to protect her, there would eventually come a day when he would be powerless. Killing intent rising unbidden within him, he asked, biting off every word, “Ling Yu is but an innocent and young woman. Why do you so aggressively demand her life? Is this how you, a stately prince of the second rank of Great Yong, use your strength to bully the weak?”

Deep-seated hatred appeared in Li Lin’s eyes. “This prince was supposed to be the son of Princely Father’s first wife, the formidable heir of the Prince of Qi. If not for Mother Concubine getting entrapped in the Fengyi Sect and committing the serious crime of rebellion, resulting in her name being expunged from the genealogy book, how could this Prince have lost his position as heir? This Prince swore that the Fengyi Sect and he cannot coexist. On this southward march, I desired to annihilate the Fengyi Sect. By now, those vile women have faced retribution for their life of crime. Unfortunately, it wasn’t by this Prince’s hand. Now that Lady Ling Yu has landed in my hands, that’s her misfortune, as well as the Heavens giving this Prince a chance to get revenge. If I don’t kill her, would I not be letting down the will of the Heavens?”

The killing intent within Qiu Yufei grew stronger. Gazing at Li Lin, he sneered, “All right, fine, since you want to kill her, I’ll kill you.”

Before he finished speaking, he swept past the two imperial bodyguards blocking his way without any visible movement. Bizarrely, he emerged before Li Lin and sent him flying with a single kick. With a thud, Li Lin’s body crashed into the wall, kicking up dust. Although the killing intent in Qiu Yufei was at its zenith, he remembered Li Lin’s status and didn’t inflict a killing blow in the end.

Granted this mercy, Li Lin only saw his vision go black and tasted sweetness in his mouth. He spat out blood. His four limbs and all his bones were in indescribable pain. He lay prone on the floor, unable to clamber to his feet. He cursed in his head, Damned Huo Cong! Didn’t you say the cloth armor I’m wearing could stop fifty percent of one’s internal energy and wouldn’t give me a serious injury? You also said that when Qiu Yufei saw that Lady Ling Yu was unharmed, he wouldn’t deal a killing blow! Why didn’t this Prince hold out against even a single kick?

The two ashamed and angry bodyguards leapt over at this moment. But from the point of view of Ling Yu and Li Lin, it looked like Qiu Yufei’s body just vibrated and the two bodyguards were forced back again. However, Qiu Yufei didn’t continue to attack Li Lin, instead retreating to Ling Yu’s side. The two bodyguards stood in front of Li Lin for protection, wrathful surprise writ large on their faces. But they didn’t know that Qiu Yufei’s breathing and circulation were actually roiling, even though he appeared uninjured on the surface. If these two men attacked at the same time, they could severely injure Qiu Yufei.

Qiu Yufei’s gaze concentrated on the two imperial bodyguards. One of them was a practitioner of the Hundred Steps Divine Fist, while the other practiced the Eagle Claw. They could barely be included on the list of ultimate martial arts experts. If they were compared to Ou Yuanning, they had at least sixty percent of his level of achievement. And because his own internal injuries had not healed yet, he only had fifty percent of his normal strength. He took the upper hand just then simply due to his nimble movements. If he truly wanted to take these two’s lives, they would likely turn the tables and severely injure him. Even with the status Prince Li Lin had, two imperial bodyguards like this were not too extravagant.

Li Lin was finally able to stand up. He wiped away the bloodstain at the corner of his mouth and said in a loud voice, “Form into Blood Attack Formation. If you let anyone go, slit your throat for this Prince.”

An earthshaking unison of pledges came from outside the drawing room, after which rang the clattering of weapons and arrows being strung on bows. Among these sounds, Qiu Yufei also heard many footsteps either heavy as a mountain or airy as the wind. They were all first-rate or better in skill, and there were two people whose martial arts were even better than the two bodyguards in the pavilion. Not even the Prince of Qi could display more grandeur.

Qiu Yufei suddenly got an indescribable feeling. Have I already fallen into a trap? But who would take the effort to counter me? Even if Great Yong’s Imperial Family wishes to act against the Devil Sect, they wouldn’t select a day like today when the situation in Jiangnan is still undecided. However, Qiu Yufei didn’t have the time to think about these questions right now. He just turned to gaze at Ling Yu with eyes full of guilt. He knew that, with his own strength, he couldn’t rescue her anymore. He reached out and clutched Ling Yu’s fair hand. Ling Yu raised her head and looked at him, her bright eyes limpid as clear water full of gratitude. When their eyes met, their gazes melded such that it was impossible to move their eyes away.

After a long time, Qiu Yufei let out a long sigh. “Prince of Jia, you have truly toiled hard. Presumably, you have laid in wait for this. It’s just that I don’t know what immense hatred there is between you and me to make you take the trouble to set this trap.”

A glint flickered in Li Lin’s eyes, and he coolly said, “This Prince has as many imperial bodyguards as clouds with him. As always, Uncle Qiu flatters me. This Prince has always respected fourth young master greatly. Even if not for the sake of the Devil Sect, I must consider the friendship between Uncle daren and fourth young master. As long as you leave that woman behind for this Prince to deal with, this Prince will pretend like the events of today did not happen.”

Sorrow flashed by in Qiu Yufei’s eyes, and he said thinly, “Ling Yu is my fiancée. If the Prince of Jia is determined to kill her, then include me as well.”

Li Lin knew from the response that Qiu Yufei had slightly yielded, but according to the goal Huo Cong and he discussed beforehand, he couldn’t lightly let them go, so he purposely made killing intent appear on his features. He arrogantly declared, “Fourth young master is too respectful. Be it the Emperor or my Princely Father, they have all held the Sovereign of the Devil Sect in high esteem. Moreover, fourth young master is Uncle daren’s best friend. Even if Li Lin were braver, he wouldn’t dare offend fourth young master. It’s just that that woman is a remnant of the Fengyi Sect. Not even the Sovereign of the Devil Sect would allow that woman to enter their sect. Why else was fourth young master forced into secluded meditation? Fourth young master has presumably come today without earning the permission of the Sovereign of the Devil Sect. Even if this Prince pardons that woman, can fourth young master really oppose the Sovereign of the Devil Sect? Great Yong unifying the world will happen sooner or later. Although this one has only heard of the schemes of the Sovereign of the Devil Sect, I know they are out of the ordinary. The world may be big, but fourth young master will find no place of refuge. The correct path is to abandon that woman and return to the Devil Sect to make amends.”

Qiu Yufei was shaken to the core. This young prince’s every word struck a deep chord and made it difficult for him to rebut. However, when his gaze landed on Ling Yu’s pale face, he could no longer look away. Even if he were ground to dust, he would find it difficult to part with a soul mate like her. Raising his head, he resolutely proclaimed, “Since that’s the case, let this one experience the Prince of Jia’s Blood Attack Formation. If I can take Ling Yu away, can events end with this?”

“This Prince is incompetent,” Li Lin sighed, “but he knows that with fourth young master’s current strength, even if you can protect that woman, it will be difficult for your severe injuries to heal, and you’ll die soon. Why must Uncle Qiu sacrifice himself for a woman?” His tone was very confident.

Ling Yu may not have understood the details of each side’s strength, but she believed his words. She lifted her head again and gazed at Qiu Yufei, seeing his expression was grave. It was clear that Li Lin’s words weren’t false. She grew afraid and knew her slim chance at survival had finally been severed. She was about to draw her hand back when she watched Qiu Yufei firmly and nonchalantly say, “May I ask, Your Imperial Highness, if I can break out of the Blood Attack Formation with Ling Yu, can events end with this?”

Ling Yu was astonished by the words. She had been a fallen woman for many years and was used to seeing adulterous and selfish men. She’d long locked her heart away and dived headfirst into the zither, but she also didn’t intend to put herself out into the world. Over the years, only Liu Rumeng gained her trust and esteem through two years of painstaking effort. And although Qiu Yufei was the person she cherished, she didn’t trust him a great deal, let alone in this life or death situation. Even if Qiu Yufei were forced to abandon her, she wouldn’t find it unexpected. However, Qiu Yufei didn’t abandon her in the end. Unwittingly, two streaks of tears rolled down her cheeks, and she whispered, “Why torture yourself? Fourth young master has a bright future. Why are you willing to stir up a hornet’s nest and disobey your elders and betters for Ling Yu?”

Qiu Yufei’s heart sank, and he looked down, seeing Ling Yu’s misty eyes full of resolve. Afterwards, he felt the alabaster hand in his grip suddenly become as slippery as an eel and easily slip out of Qiu Yufei’s grasp. His vision blurred, and Ling Yu, who’d been sitting on a zither stool, jumped backward onto her feet, her graceful and delicate body gliding and turning in the air like a swimming fish. A name that’d long faded from Qiu Yufei’s memory crossed his mind, and he shouted in surprise, “Plummeting Jade Strike! Ling Yu, don’t be reckless!” With that, he stretched out his arms and leaped toward Ling Yu, trying to restrain her.

Although the Plummeting Jade Strike was the most terrifying of the melee lethal blows, it had a lot of limitations. Once put into action, it mostly resulted in both sides being destroyed. Ling Yu was not a merciless and vicious person. Once she used it, it would likely be even more dangerous. However, Ling Yu’s actions looked to be as natural as a fish swimming, her delicate body seemingly turning into a boneless spirit serpent.

When Qiu Yufei tried to grab her in midair, she swam like a fish in water, abruptly twisting her body in the air. Although Qiu Yufei also changed his action promptly, he only managed to rip off part of her skirt and sleeve. He’d missed by just a thread, and Ling Yu crashed out of the window of the drawing room, charging outside.

Qiu Yufei could no longer worry about his injury and took a deep breath of qi. He shot out of the window in pursuit like a fletched arrow.

Ling Yu intended to die, so after leaping out, she didn’t exert more strength, simply falling to the ground from the leftover momentum. However, before she hit the ground, she fell into someone’s arms. Afterwards, she felt like the scenery on either side of her became blurry, and a cold wind blew into her face, making it almost impossible for her to open her eyes. She didn’t struggle, because she could sense familiar yet unfamiliar breathing without needing to look back. She heard the whistling of arrows flying through the air, but she didn’t feel a trace of fear. She just tried her best to raise her spirits and reduce her weight. She was afraid to even move a muscle, fearing that any of her movements could impact Qiu Yufei.

Qiu Yufei didn’t feel a single iota of remorse. His mindscape as clear as a mirror projected the trajectories and strength of the arrows that had enough power to smash metal and stone. A total of thirty-six arrows formed a dragnet and attacked the two of them, blockading all avenues of escape. Even before he became injured, he couldn’t guarantee he could escape unharmed, let alone with an unhealed, severe injury while also carrying a woman. But he tried his best to use his body to shield all of Ling Yu. He didn’t care about worsening his injury. The only thought in his mind was to make sure he rescued Ling Yu from this place.

He knew at heart that Ling Yu didn’t want to escape. Even the stupidest person knew the most likely outcome when charging out in these circumstances was a path that led only to death. In addition, Ling Yu was a smart and beautiful woman. How could she not understand that? She just didn’t want to implicate him. But what point was there in living if he, a man, couldn’t protect the woman he loved?

Sharp arrows brushed past his lapels and hairline. Qiu Yufei did his utmost to break out of the first hail of arrows, and he was nearly exhausted, but the twang of bowstrings reached his ear. The second hail of arrows attacked when he was at his weakest. Qiu Yufei forcefully circulated his qi and flicked a sleeve. However, his head swam, and he knew his old wound was acting up. When he was in despair, he heard a voice that sounded like jade and ice clashing say, “Everyone, stay your hand.” At the same time, a commanding voice briefly said, “Stay your hand, Yufei.”

The two voices were not that loud, but they cut straight to the heart all the same. Every single person got the illusion that the speakers were standing right next to them. At essentially the moment Qiu Yufei heard the two voices, he gave up all resistance and dropped like a kite with a broken string. Meanwhile, the arrows shot at him that almost reached him were snapped in half and sent flying by some sort of force. Broken arrows and torn feathers littered the ground.

Qiu Yufei disregarded everything else. He landed on the ground and let go of Ling Yu, then sat cross-legged by himself to circulate his energy and heal his wounds. However, his meridians that had circulated energy with the purity of pearls were now jagged, and beads of sweat seeped onto his forehead.

Ling Yu felt like she was floating in a dream. Just a moment before, she had been struggling on the edge of death, but all of a sudden, the arrows were all broken and reflected away. And Qiu Yufei and she landed on the ground. Even in that moment, Qiu Yufei still cautiously protected her. Afterwards, he sat on the stone path still damp from the snow and regulated his breathing. Ling Yu could only anxiously kneel next to him.

Right at this time, two more people suddenly appeared in the yard. Ling Yu basically didn’t see how those two arrived by her side. One of them was a man in gray clothes, his square face honest and dignified. He simply gave Ling Yu a brief glance, and she felt her breathing and circulation churn, nearly falling backward on the ground. However, she sensed a hint of icy qi fly through the air and enter her body, and she immediately felt her mind clear and mood improve, as well as her breathing calm. Raising her head and gazing over, she saw the other person, a handsome young man with a face as pure as the ice and snow, smile at her. She couldn’t know these two men had used her to fight a secret bout and only looked at Qiu Yufei in worry. She didn’t even notice a man with gray hair and hoary temples walk in among the numerous imperial and household bodyguards and give orders in a low voice, dismissing all the hidden imperial bodyguards in the yard. She only gazed at the cold sweat on Qiu Yufei’s brow with a heavy heart, unable to even wipe the beads of sweat off his forehead.

Seeing this state of affairs, worry flashed in the eyes of the man in gray clothes. His gaze landed on Li Lin, already called over to Jiang Zhe’s side and being dressed down in a low voice. A glint shimmered in his eyes.

Li Lin, his head down pretending to be penitent, sensed the force of a mountain bounding toward him. He couldn’t help raising his head and gazing over, seeing a set of deep and serene black eyes with a hidden flame to them and full of killing intent looking at him. He felt like his chest took a pounding. In the blink of an eye, his breathing seemed to get cut off. If not for the stubbornness in his bones sustaining him in forcing himself to meet that man’s eyes, he would probably have fallen to his knees.

Xiaoshunzi slightly moved his body at this time and blocked the sightline of that man. Li Lin felt his knees turn to jelly, the relief of the abrupt lifting of the pressure on his body almost making him limply collapse. Fortunately, Huyan Shou was standing next to him and held him up. However, no matter how Li Lin looked at Huyan Shou’s eyes, they seemed quite impressive, and his grip wasn’t too forceful either. Li Lin remembered the background of Huyan Shou’s wife, the Marquis of Cheng, Su Qing, too late. He nearly screamed to the Heavens with grievances, but he never noticed that the hatred he’d hidden deep in his heart years ago was gradually fading away, no longer leaving a trace.

Now, that man and Xiaoshunzi made eye contact. The many chi separating the two men turned into a sealed space, buffets of strong wind currents crashing every which way. They probed each other, exchanged blows, and dodged each other countless times. If not for the two men being of the same mind, each restraining their internal energy in their mental battle, the clapping of thunder would likely have shaken the Heavens. At that point, probably nobody could have remained in the yard, much less let Qiu Yufei regulate his breathing and heal. As such, the two men tacitly agreed not a moment later to stop fighting.

Li Lin walked over with his head hanging at this time. He carried an octagonal brocade box in his hands. The man flicked his gaze over and saw the words “Minor Cycle Elixir” written in seal script on the brocade box. This was a miracle elixir the Shaolin Temple could only refine one of every hundred years. When considering all the medicine in the world that treated internal injuries, it was second to none. It was even beyond the medicine the Medical Sage, Sang Chen, refined. Especially in these circumstances, it was the panacea Qiu Yufei most needed.

The man gazed at Li Lin with eyes that had softened a great deal. The value of the Minor Cycle Elixir went without saying. Even with Li Lin’s status, it should be quite difficult to use it. However, he wasn’t in the mood for the moment to think of how Li Lin earned this drug. He reached a hand out and took it, crammed it in Qiu Yufei’s mouth, then put his palm on the center of Qiu Yufei’s back, transferring energy to help him heal.

Li Lin was relieved. He knew his peace offering had been accepted by Duan Lingxiao, the first disciple of the sovereign of the Devil Sect. He could finally rest easy for the time being and could slowly explain things after a few days had passed. Thinking about the sacrifice he made, tears nearly fell from his eyes, but when he thought about how Jiang Shen had stolen the Minor Cycle Elixir from Great Master True Compassion, Li Lin couldn’t stop the corners of his mouth from lifting. He wondered how that kid was being punished.

Inside the Floating Clouds Temple, an unkempt Jiang Shen was transcribing thick scriptures in the Buddhist temple. Every so often, he wailed into the sky, “Aaaaaah! Why is Master punishing me like Daddy, making me copy books?”

By now, Qiu Yufei had regained a calm expression. The Minor Cycle Elixir melted in his mouth and gave rise to a warm feeling that spread throughout all the limbs and bones in his body. Moreover, the similar qi entering from the center of his back nourished his nearly drained dantian like sweet dew. He felt at ease.

The Demonic Shadow and his eldest apprentice brother acting at the same time meant there was no more danger. Based on the temperament of his eldest apprentice brother, even if he wanted to kill him, he wouldn’t disturb an innocent woman. And the Demonic Shadow was even haughtier, even less likely to take advantage of another’s perilous state. Besides, Qiu Yufei didn’t believe this affair was Jiang Zhe’s desire.

He expunged all the concerns on his mind, emptying his head of all thoughts. Soon, he entered into a meditative state in which he lost awareness of the boundary between the external world and himself.

Once Qiu Yufei finished healing and stood up, he first caught sight of Ling Yu’s disheveled, somber face covered in tears. All afternoon, inky clouds loomed in the sky, and the cold wind blew harder and harder. He forgot everything and reached out and pulled Ling Yu into his embrace, but his hands touched a block of ice. The cold wind had long blown through all of Ling Yu’s skin, but she hadn’t been willing to return to the building. If not for her achieving initial success in training her internal energy, she would probably not have held out. Only after Ling Yu bashfully pushed aside Qiu Yufei did he notice his eldest apprentice brother, Duan Lingxiao, was making eye contact with Xiaoshunzi. Although they weren’t making any movements or talking, in Qiu Yufei’s view, not a feather could be added to the scales, dust could not fall between the two men. If even clothes fluttered or eyes flashed, it could explode into a fierce battle.

Qiu Yufei backflipped onto his feet and dragged Ling Yu along to prostrate. He deferentially said, “Many thanks to eldest apprentice brother for saving my life. Yufei knows his crime cannot be forgiven and beseeches eldest apprentice brother to not trouble Ling Yu.”

Duan Lingxiao slightly furrowed his brows at the words. Right at this moment, Xiaoshunzi attacked. His move was eerie and ruthless. Duan Lingxiao’s counterattack was quick and powerful to the extreme. Their figures flickered lightly as they came together and apart again. Nobody other than Qiu Yufei could even see what exactly was happening, let alone figure out who was winning and who was losing.

And I, strolling out of the building, didn’t care about who was winning and losing. After I harshly castigated Li Lin for a while, I kept thinking about how to resolve this situation. Now, I had made up my mind. Smiling, I walked up to the two men and said, “Brother Duan, you and Xiaoshunzi have finished measure your strength, yet Yufei is still prostrate there. You, as a senior apprentice brother, should say something.”

Duan Lingxiao gave me a stern look before looking at Qiu Yufei and coldly saying, “If not for seeing you narrowly escape death, I would have killed you on the spot. For a woman, you actually disobeyed Honored Master’s orders! Humph!”

The snort pierced Ling Yu’s heart like a cold arrow, and she felt her strength ebb away, powerless to support her delicate body. Her vision went dark and she crumpled, but Qiu Yufei held her up.

Qiu Yufei kowtowed and wept, “Eldest apprentice brother, please don’t blame Ling Yu. All the blame should be placed upon Yufei.”

Duan Lingxiao’s eyes glinted, and he raised his hand to strike, but he just couldn’t do it. However, when he saw Qiu Yufei’s intractable behavior, rage burst within him again. His gaze fell upon Ling Yu, but it rapidly shifted away. He’d already been in Hefei for two days, waiting idly for an opportunity to catch Qiu Yufei, so he’d arrived at this location at almost the same time as Qiu Yufei. He’d watched everything unfold, and respect swelled within him for this woman. Although his fury was unquenched, he didn’t want to make things more difficult for her.

I finally breathed a sigh of relief. It looked like Duan Lingxiao was not heartless. I walked forward and first said to Qiu Yufei, “Yufei, this is your wrongdoing. You defied the Sovereign of the Devil Sect’s orders to run off to Hefei, then got severely wounded by the machinations of that child, Li Lin. Doesn’t that bring complete and utter shame upon the name of the Sovereign of the Devil Sect? Elder young master roundly scolding you is out of tough love. You should have apologized. How could you talk back to elder young master?”

I sneaked a peek and saw Duan Lingxiao’s expression had mellowed a great deal as expected. However, Li Lin looked to be suffering in silence, but I didn’t care about him. Of my own accord, I saluted Duan Lingxiao. “However, elder young master also made mistakes. Yufei is sire’s junior apprentice brother. The Sovereign of the Devil Sect has no desire to pay attention to worldly affairs, so elder young master as the eldest brother must act as the father. Elder young master should be taking interest in the important event of Yufei’s marriage. A virtuous and beautiful lady makes a fine match for a gentleman. Lady Ling Yu is both beautiful and intelligent and is a good woman after Qiu Yufei’s own heart. They’re a match made in heaven. Elder young master should be helping them get together. Plus, Lady Ling Yu has no one to turn to now. If elder young master insists on stopping their marriage, Lady Ling Yu will inevitably drift to the ends of the earth. If something happens to her, not only will Yufei’s heart break but the reputation of the Sovereign of the Devil Sect will also be damaged.

“I know elder young master finds it difficult to make decisions, but if elder young master leaves her by Yufei’s side, you should still be able to convince the Sovereign of the Devil Sect. After a few years pass, if the Sovereign of the Devil Sect and elder young master feel that that woman is a good match for Yufei, it wouldn’t hurt to fulfill their wishes. If you still don’t approve, there will be a proper way to handle it. And to avoid making fools of yourselves throughout the world, you decidedly must not break up lovebirds over trivial matters like status and position, causing a loving couple to lead a wandering life.”

Thoughts raced through Duan Lingxiao’s mind, and he deemed it reasonable. At any rate, the affair between this woman and Yufei was now difficult to cover up. If he allowed this woman to wander through jianghu, it would be fine if she had a home to return to. If she were taken as a concubine and word spread, it would humiliate Yufei. It was better to follow Jiang Zhe’s plan.

On second thought, he couldn’t help but laugh. Jiang Zhe may have outwardly considered the reputation of the sovereign of the Devil Sect, but in his opinion, Ling Yu had both an excellent appearance and conduct. If she stayed with Yufei for many years, not only would their bond deepen, but his master would also mellow out. Although he saw through Jiang Zhe’s intentions, his heart had softened, so he eventually let out a long sigh. “Since Marquis Jiang says so, I will take some of the responsibility and take the two of them back to beg Honored Master for forgiveness.”

Qiu Yufei rejoiced and repeatedly kowtowed. “Many thanks to eldest apprentice brother for his grace.”

Ling Yu was overcome with bewilderment. After puzzledly following the example of Qiu Yufei and prostrating in thanks, she noticed Duan Lingxiao reveal a slight smile and knew she had finally broken loose from a lifetime of misery. But just as she got a little happy, she thought of Liu Rumeng, in the same boat as her. And she remembered learning through gossip of Liu Rumeng going to Jiang Zhe’s residence today, and a desire for entreaty arose within her. But upon reconsideration, her master had frequently cursed Jiang Zhe for being insidious and malicious, merciless and vicious. And he was the mortal enemy of the Fengyi Sect. He made an appeal for her just now presumably for Qiu Yufei’s sake. If she had defied him, he could just say a few words to make her sink back into the depths of torment. She grew timid.

With Qiu Yufei bracing her, she arduously rose to her feet. Seeing Jiang Zhe and that elder young master Duan walking away hand in hand, boundless courage erupted within her. Shaking off Qiu Yufei’s arm, she threw herself onto her knees and proclaimed, “Marquis Jiang, this humble woman has something to beseech of you!”

I was reminiscing with Duan Lingxiao and had invited him to remain at my residence for a few days, but when I heard the firm yet trepidatious words of Ling Yu coming from behind, I was stunned. In truth, I hadn’t paid much concern to this woman. It was just that she wasn’t much of a threat, and Yufei was in love with her. Loving everything about her¹ was fine and all, but her sudden action gave me a peculiar feeling. Stopping in my tracks, I briefly asked, “What is it?”

Ling Yu, for some reason, abruptly got the feeling that everything around her had stilled. The gray-haired, hoary-templed man may have had his back to her, but she could somehow feel his piercing gaze land on her person. Endless dread rose within her in this moment, and she felt like the frail man suddenly turned terrifying to the extreme. Even if Qiu Yufei and Duan Lingxiao tried to save her, they would be helpless. However, she quickly calmed down. Remembering Liu Rumeng’s heartbroken and inconsolable appearance, she raised her head and respectfully declared, “Your servant does not overestimate her own abilities. It’s just that I must repay elder sister Rumeng for her great grace. Two years ago, your servant was caught amid major changes. If not for Liu Rumeng’s helping hand, your servant would be better off dead. The King sued for peace this time and forced elder sister Rumeng and your servant to be included on the tribute list. Your servant was fortunate fourth young master saved her and Your Lordship pardoned her to attain deliverance from catastrophe. However, elder sister Rumeng is still trapped in misery. I beg Your Lordship to grant her clemency and restore elder sister Rumeng’s freedom.”

I gazed anew upon Ling Yu. Not every woman could keep their sisters who shared the same fate in mind at a time like this and return the favor. Admiration arose within me. Just as I was about to tell her not to worry about Liu Rumeng, Li Lin cut in from the side, “Hey, you’re too meddlesome. My uncle is important and powerful. Would he wrong your elder sister Rumeng?”

I was slightly taken aback. What nonsense was Li Lin spewing? Could it be he believed I truly would lust after women? Before I could think of an explanation, Ling Yu prostrated again and stated, “Your Lordship is naturally important and powerful. Your servant also knows Your Lordship’s poetry and prose are world-famous. If I can earn Your Lordship’s mercy, elder sister Rumeng won’t feel wronged. It’s just that elder sister Rumeng already has a lover. They pledged themselves to one another till death do them part. Last night, young master Song broke into the camp to try to rescue elder sister, but he suffered serious injuries and was captured. It would be better to be dead than alive. Your servant has heard the love between Your Lordship and the Imperial Princess of Ning, Princess Changle, is more solid than gold. Presumably, you also know the pain of love not finding a way. I beg of Your Lordship: Please set elder sister Rumeng free!”

Young master Song suffering serious injuries and getting captured … I asked Xiaoshunzi standing next to me in a whispered tone, “Is this ‘young master Song’ Yulun?”

Xiaoshunzi’s eyes flashed. “I presume it’s him. He stayed by Liu Rumeng’s side for over three years. If it’s not him, is there another brave enough to barge into the camp to rescue her? However, he is too stubborn. If he’d made a request of young master, how could it have resulted in the outcome of serious injury and capture?”

I furrowed my brows a little. I happened to catch a glimpse of the fluctuating expressions in Duan Lingxiao’s eyes. Not about to let him discover too many secrets, I turned my head to Huyan Shou and ordered, “Dispatch someone to Southern Chu’s diplomatic mission and demand their handover.” A tinge of killing intent showed in my eyes. If they had already killed Yulun, they had better not blame me for burying the entire Southern Chu diplomatic mission on the return journey.

Ling Yu rejoiced at the words. She hadn’t dared to hold any wild hopes. She never expected Jiang Zhe would order the rescue before she made the tactful request. If the Heavens blessed them, Rumeng and young master Song could pick up the pieces and start afresh. She once again kowtowed. “Your Lordship is magnanimous. Your servant kowtows in thanks for Your Lordship’s great grace on behalf of elder sister Rumeng.”

I was somewhat embarrassed and glanced at Qiu Yufei and Duan Lingxiao. I thought, I can’t possibly say the one I’m rescuing is an unworthy disciple, right? And I need to thank you for tipping me off.

Qiu Yufei had already figured out the truth and went over to help Ling Yu to her feet. Laughter and pride tinged his eyes. Meanwhile, Duan Lingxiao gazed at Ling Yu with eyes that had softened a good bit. Only Ling Yu herself didn’t know her remarks had determined her fate.

Li Lin was inwardly delighted off to one side. Although he’d come up with a way to let his uncle learn about events related to Yulun, Ling Yu achieved success through effortless speech and saved him a great deal of trouble. As such, he purposely said, “Is Uncle talking about that assassin surnamed Song? When I toured the camp yesterday, I sensed something was wrong in the diplomatic mission and already demanded that man be handed over. I thought that man was rather courageous and didn’t make things difficult for him. I currently have the medics treating him.”

I was somewhat pleasantly surprised but then furrowed my brows. “He didn’t tell you his identity?”

Li Lin replied, pretending not to care, “No. When I saw he wouldn’t speak a word, I didn’t ask further questions. Since Uncle wants that man, I’ll have someone send him over in a bit.”

I was a little irritated. Yulun was too stubborn. He was still unwilling to submit to me even at this juncture. I gave a mental sigh. I had always known about the troubles on that boy’s mind. Whatever. For Piaoxiang’s sake, I wouldn’t make things difficult for them. After giving Li Lin orders to have them be sent over, I invited Duan Lingxiao and Qiu Yufei to return with me to my residence. However, no matter how I looked at it, I felt those two were a bit of a joke. Duan Lingxiao was fine. He likely still hadn’t forgotten all the disputes between us. But Qiu Yufei was devoid of all gratitude. Though I was mentally slandering them, I smiled at them the whole journey. I couldn’t possibly let others see me making fun of them.

By the time we returned to my official residence, the sun was setting. Getting out of the carriage, I saw Baiyi and Daoli exit the entrance to welcome me. My thoughts shifted. Baiyi was the head of the Secret Camp, while Daoli and Yulun had always been close friends. These two certainly came to intercede on Yulun’s behalf. It was possible they had not told me about Liu Rumeng for Yulun’s sake. They likely assumed I would find it difficult to forget my old flame and attempt to steal his loved one. Thinking this, my face stiffened, and I ignored them. Flicking a sleeve, I entered through the main entrance and ordered someone to take Ling Yu to the back and settle her in. Then I invited Duan Lingxiao and Qiu Yufei to the drawing room to chat.

Not long after, Baiyi and Daoli personally came with a servant delivering food and drink, quite courteous and respectful. I ignored them again. After three rounds of drinking, when the drawing room was overflowing with cheer, these two apprentice brothers drinking off to the side could no longer restrain themselves. Daoli came over without asking and saluted. “Sir, this disciple has a situation to report.”

I long knew of his intentions but pretended I didn’t. “Whatever the matter is can wait until after the banquet is over,” I briefly said.

Daoli kowtowed and replied, “This matter is of grave importance. Please allow this disciple to speak.”

I cast a glance at Duan Lingxiao. I didn’t wish for him to witness a comedy. After all, I couldn’t let others watch me bully my disciples, so I said, “Speak. I’ll consider it.”

Happiness flitted through Daoli’s eyes. “Sir, if a match made in heaven were torn apart, may I ask if Sir should help them get married?”

I laughed in my head. When did Daoli grow fond of beating around the bush? I answered, “Love will find a way. If they truly are a match made in heaven, I should help them, of course.”

Baiyi also prostrated. “This disciple has always admired that Sir keeps his promises. The lovers are in the city of Hefei right now. They love each other dearly, but others thwarted them, splitting them up in the middle of things. If they receive word from Sir, they can grow gray-haired and old together. This disciple kowtows to request Sir bestow favor upon them and forgive that man’s past mistakes. Allow that lady and him to tie the knot.”

I sighed softly and thought, Looks like that kid, Yulun, finally admitted defeat. Never mind. For Piaoxiang’s sake, I’ll help them. I couldn’t help but laugh. It looked like my heart had softened quite a bit after meeting Liu Rumeng today. I spoke, “Since they’re in love and inclined to do so, I naturally won’t hinder them. Have them come over to see me. I’ll draw up a marriage contract for them today.”

Daoli and Baiyi were both overjoyed and hastily walked out the door. Smiling, Duan Lingxiao said, “Marquis Jiang is fondest of helping others realize their dreams, as expected. If Yufei and Lady Ling Yu gain each other’s good company in the future, I think I should thank Marquis Jiang in advance.”

With ease of mind, I replied, “Brother Duan flatters me. I only said a few words. I still need brother Duan to make the decision for Yufei and Lady Ling Yu to have hope to speak of. It is brother Duan who is helping others realize their dreams.”

At this time, footsteps came from outside, which I ignored, and I kept talking with Duan Lingxiao. I was thinking it would be good to put Yulun in his place, but I heard the door open, and numerous people walked in. Before I could look back, I saw Duan Lingxiao’s and Qiu Yufei’s faces turn odd and eerie simultaneously. Even Xiaoshunzi, who Duan Lingxiao had dragged to the banquet, wore a strange expression on his face. My heart skipped a beat, and I hurriedly looked back to see a pair of beautiful people kneeling on the floor. It wasn’t Yulun and Liu Rumeng as I had expected, but Crown Prince Li Jun of Great Yong and my beloved daughter, Jiang Roulan.

I stretched a trembling hand out, pointing at the two of them. “What have you two come for?” It wholly escaped my notice that my voice had become shrill and biting.

Li Jun moved forward on his knees at this time and kowtowed. “Li Jun has always seen Sir as a father. I offended Sir back then and specifically came today to apologize. I’m bringing up old affairs again this time. Jun fell in love with Roulan over a decade ago. It’s etched in my memory and difficult for me to let go. I implore Sir to betroth Roulan to me. Jun vows never to betray Lan’er’s profound love.”

“Absolutely not. That’s out of the question,” I loudly responded.

The door to the drawing room opened again, and Huo Cong walked in unhurriedly. He prostrated and said, “Sir, this disciple and the others just heard Sir agree to the marriage between the Princess of Zhaohua and His Imperial Highness, the Crown Prince. Elder young master Duan and fourth young master Qiu are witnesses. Since Sir said love will find a way, His Imperial Highness, the Crown Prince, and the Princess of Zhaohua are a match made in heaven. Everyone acclaims it. The two of them also love each other dearly. In two years apart, their deep love hasn’t changed. Please, Sir, marry them.”

I gazed at Huo Cong. Realization struck me, and many events I couldn’t understand suddenly became clear: why I hadn’t seen the tribute list and the document from the Bright Inspection Department ahead of time, resulting in me losing my cool in public in the Silver Peace Hall; why Chiji sent a letter to Qiu Yufei; why Li Lin suddenly thought of taking revenge; why Li Lin suddenly got that strong, nearly trapping and killing Qiu Yufei. It was clear I had fallen into a huge trap. And only Huo Cong had the ability to mobilize all the forces on my side.

Ah, that explained it. The eight elite operatives conspired with Yulun or his affairs, and Li Jun, Li Lin, and Roulan were sticking together all along. This time, it was again over Li Jun’s and Roulan’s marriage, and they naturally formed a tripartite alliance to help each other. And the Stalwart Tiger Guard by my side as well as the massive army in Hefei couldn’t but show deference to the crown prince by obliging him. Besides, the emperor’s intention with this marriage was quite evident as well. Although he had not set down a public imperial edict yet, everybody most probably knew his intention, so these people joined together to mislead my eyes and ears. Oh, right, there was also the appearance of that Minor Cycle Elixir. That was most likely Shen’er’s doing.

I flicked my gaze over to Xiaoshunzi and stared at him. These matters could be hidden from me, but they shouldn’t have been concealed from him. Why wasn’t he showing any emotion?

Xiaoshunzi gazed back at me somewhat guiltily, then glanced at Roulan. I immediately understood. Xiaoshunzi had always adored Roulan, and since Roulan was my daughter, she was also his daughter. If Roulan requested it, Xiaoshunzi would most likely close his eyes.

I then heard Duan Lingxiao’s voice. “So it turns out Marquis Jiang is also the type of person to break up an affectionate couple, yet you just advised I speak to my honored master. This one can’t bear to watch and would ask Your Lordship to not forget about helping others realize their dreams.”

I was rocked to the core. To say nothing of tricking me into making a promise, that kid, Huo Cong, even finagled a witness here who wasn’t afraid of elaborating. Aiyah! I truly was smart as a rule but this time a fool. What kind of personage was the sovereign of the Devil Sect? How could he not figure things out after a few years? Most likely, he just didn’t get a chance to resign. If Yufei had been in secluded meditation all day, he probably gave Ling Yu one chance. If not for this, how could Chiji have sent the letter under the sovereign of the Devil Sect’s nose? Duan Lingxiao was in Chang’an accompanying the emperor. He could not leave as he pleased. Without the emperor’s suggestion, he couldn’t have traveled over a great distance to capture Qiu Yufei.

Out of the corner of my eye, I saw that Duan Lingxiao wore an unperturbed expression, whereas Qiu Yufei looked befuddled. Well, it looked like only Qiu Yufei was as in the dark as me. It seemed that his hardships and struggles during the journey were likely an excuse for the sovereign of the Devil Sect to probe and temper Yufei and Lady Ling Yu. Moreover, with me, Jiang Zhe, personally pleading for Lady Ling Yu, nobody could blame them if Qiu Yufei married Ling Yu. However, that kid, Huo Cong, predicting I would support Yufei and Lady Ling Yu’s marriage showed he knew me well.

Upon figuring out the whole truth, I pointed at Huo Cong, about to reprimand him severely, but I found it difficult to get the words out. This boy was the student who surpassed the master, making use of various circumstances to make me fall into the trap. Every single person benefitted. I was the only one who had a hard time speaking my mind. If I reneged now, I would lose respect with Duan Lingxiao and Qiu Yufei. Further, I now found myself forsaken by friends and allies, all due to the marriage between Li Jun and Roulan. If I truly disagreed again, I feared these people would be at odds with me. How could I live like that? But if I agreed, I thought of how Roulan’s lifelong happiness would possibly be nothing but a mirage, and I couldn’t say anything.

Everyone watched Jiang Zhe’s face first go ashen, then flush red, and finally turn pallid. Everyone was worried and glanced at each other in dismay, and no one dared to step forward and prompt him. Xiaoshunzi let out a long sigh at this time and stood up, saying sternly, “Stay behind, Roulan. Everyone else, leave for now.”

At a time like this, not even Duan Lingxiao and Qiu Yufei planned to offend Xiaoshunzi. In not a moment, everybody exited, with Xiaoshunzi being no exception either.

I heaved a sigh and looked at Roulan. She walked up to me, kneeled at my knees, then raised her head and gazed at me. “Daddy, I’m sorry. Lanlan and the others tricked you together.”

I reached out and gently stroked her beautiful hair. My eyes landed on her bright, beautiful, and delicate face. At this moment, Roulan’s serene black eyes were full of devotion and remorse. I sighed, “Lan’er, do you not understand Daddy’s loving efforts?”

Tears welled up in Roulan’s eyes. “Lan’er understands. The Imperial Family contains many pernicious people and few genuine and sincere people. Daddy doesn’t wish for daughter to suffer in the future. This grace Lan’er would never forget for the rest of her life. Although nobody speaks of it, I know I’m not the flesh and blood of Daddy, but Daddy has treated Lan’er over the years better than younger brother. Even not allowing Lan’er and big brother Jun to be together was done with Lan’er in mind. However, I solely love big brother Jun. If I can’t be with him, daughter won’t be happy for the rest of her life.”

I forced back the tears in my eyes. “You silly girl. If he ceases to be faithful, or the two of you can’t grow gray-haired and old together in the end, you won’t regret it?”

Roulan softly sang:

“On a spring day,Blown apricot blossoms fall upon my head.On the pathway, there is a young master,Amply distinguished and accomplished.Long to be his wife,Though pitilessly I’m disclaimed,

I would not feel shame.”

My mind took a massive blow. Gazing at Roulan’s expression full of sentimental tenderness, I felt like I was looking at Piaoxiang in her prime. I couldn’t stop myself from covering my face with my sleeves as tears streamed down. I heard Roulan say in a gentle yet firm voice, “Daddy, even if we can’t grow old together, even if big brother Jun ceases to be faithful, daughter will never regret it.”

Eventually, after an uncertain amount of time passed, I choked out, “Okay, a grown daughter can’t be kept at home. Go out and tell them that I’ve approved of this marriage. Remember to tell Li Jun to not blame me for not sparing him if he betrays you someday.”

I heard Roulan exclaim in pleasant surprise, then heard her cry tears of joy and open the door and leave. Before the door even closed, I heard euphoric screams come from outside the room. I turned around to face the corner, disinclined to let others see my face drenched with tears. A moment later, someone walked up to my side. I didn’t even need to raise my head to know the person was sure to be Xiaoshunzi. He knew me the best. He absolutely wouldn’t let others disturb me at this time.

After sobbing my heart out, I took the washcloth Xiaoshunzi offered and wiped away my tearstains. I asked, “Do they all know?”

“Yes, and I reckon His Imperial Highness, the Prince of Qi, knows now as well,” Xiaoshunzi replied with a smile. “The secret report for the Emperor might have already been sent off. In no more than a few days, an imperial decree will presumably summon Roulan back to the capital. Afterwards, the ceremony for selecting a crown princess should be held. In any case, they must still go through the motions even with a closed-door decision. Just now, His Imperial Highness, the Crown Prince, told me he already brought up to the Empress that he would not be selecting concubines this time. If, after three years of marriage, they do not have any children, it won’t be too late to choose concubines.”

“So that boy does have a conscience. Never mind, I truly let him off lightly,” I muttered. “How are matters around Yulun? Huo Cong hasn’t burned any bridges, has he?”

Xiaoshunzi held his laughter back. “Young master Cong just asked me to bid you farewell. He also resigned from his military commission with His Imperial Highness, the Crown Prince. Allegedly, he communicated by letter a few days ago with Zen Master True Dharma of the White Horse Temple in Luoyang, wanting to help Zen Master True Dharma translate Sanskrit sutras. He just set off. I had him bring along the bodyguards by his side, as after all, hostilities have not ceased, and the route still isn’t safe. As for matters surrounding Yulun and Liu Rumeng, you’ve even agreed to the Crown Prince and Roulan’s marriage, so would you make things difficult for them? Although Lady Liu knows Yulun used to be your disciple and resents it a little, she did not furiously cut ties out of respect for Yulun braving untold danger for her. After time passes, I expect they’ll come and call upon you.”

I sighed, “That boy, Huo Cong, sure is smart, causing such a large problem and dragging in however many people from all levels of Great Yong society. If he did not lie low until the dust settled, he would have grown dizzy with success. However, Xiaoshunzi, when I look at these children, why do I suddenly feel old?”

“Aging is normal and nothing bad. The same is true for me,” Xiaoshunzi briefly replied.

Unhappy, I said, “How can that be the same? I am not yet forty-five but already have graying hair. You’re only six years younger than me, but you look like you’re twenty. It’s truly unfair.”

Xiaoshunzi flicked his eyes over. “What does that matter? It is not easy to stay permanently young. But aging a little is easy as pie. I would never wait for young master to go fully gray and become a grandfather yet still let others believe I am your grandson.”

I couldn’t help but guffaw. Jesting with Xiaoshunzi was always this fun. For some reason, I felt exceedingly worn-out all of a sudden. Today, Lan’er found a home, and I had no more worries. As for Shen’er, that silly child, I wasn’t concerned with him. Arrangements had already been made for the affairs of the Lu family. Even the incense in Southern Chu temples would continue to burn.

The emperor had long agreed that in the spring of next year, Jiang Haitao could break through Junshan in Ninghai and the Wuyue navy in one action. Afterwards, he would follow the river upstream to Jianye, after which the five armies of Qin Yong, Zhangsun Yi, Jing Chi, Pei Yun, and Jiang Haitao could sweep across the length and breadth of land of Jiangnan, and the unification of the whole country would come at any day. And I would finally no longer be subjected to the vicissitudes of officialdom.

Stretching and getting to his feet, Xiaoshunzi propped me up as we walked to my bedroom. All was still, not a figure to be seen. Presumably, Xiaoshunzi understood my mood, so he didn’t allow them to be here to upset me. Returning to my bedroom, I gazed at the soft couch and felt I could not sustain myself anymore. All day, my emotions swirled, and it was like all my energy had been exhausted. Only when I lay on the bed did I remember something. Half dreaming, half awake, I said, “That’s right, write a memorial for me. Roulan returning to the capital will have to wait a few more days. Once Jianye is captured, I need to take her to see Piaoxiang, who is her nominal mother. One must pay respects to the dead…”

Words of agreement were in Xiaoshunzi’s mouth, but he stopped hearing Jiang Zhe’s voice. Looking back, he saw Jiang Zhe asleep and heard regular breathing, and knew he was exhausted to the extreme. He couldn’t help but smile. Lighting the benzoin incense, he noiselessly withdrew from the bedroom.

Walking outside, he couldn’t see what time it was, but snow was falling, fluttering about. Snowflakes as large as goose down covered the landscape before his eyes with a silver cloak in the blink of an eye. All was quiet from the Heavens to the earth, soundless, as if the world also knew how weary his master was and dared not disturb his rest.