Chapter 17

Chapter 17

The wind grew stronger, causing the sun to gradually retreat behind layers of clouds. As the sky began to darken, Pei Muheng rose to his feet with the intention of returning. Xu Yunqi followed wordlessly in his wake.

On this occasion, the two of them didn't ride on horseback but strolled back at a leisurely pace.

Xu Yunqi held a small cloth pouch, gazing at the man before her. He was clad in a deep indigo robe, his figure slender and upright, exuding an restrained yet refined demeanor. He resembled snow on a high mountain peak, a pine tree among the snowy ranges, untouchable and majestic.

Xu Yunqi kept her distance, basking in her own joy. She fetched some plum wine and immersed the snake in it to create the finest medicinal liquor. If her grandfather were still alive, this would have relieved his rheumatism and cured his old chilblained legs... The thought of her grandfather, whose whereabouts remained unknown, cast a shadow over Xu Yunqi's heart.

During the two months when Pei Muhen journeyed south to Yangzhou, she made an excuse to return to her natal home and personally ventured to Yan Prefecture and Tong Prefecture. Despite her efforts, she found no trace of what she sought.

Hutong Shopkeeper said that after more than a year, Grandfather might no longer be among the living.

The breeze brushed across her eyes, leaving an indelible hint of anxiety deep within.

Pei Muheng turned his head and saw his wife following behind him like a child who had made a mistake, looking gloomy and subdued.

Suddenly, he found it amusing and stopped to look at her. "Aren't you afraid?"

Xu Yunqi paused, suppressing the worry in her heart, and blinked, asking, "I'm not afraid. Are you?" She countered.

Pei Muheng was speechless.

"Have you caught snakes before?"

A smile returned to Xu Yunqi's face as she nodded, "Yes, I have. When I was young, I went up mountains and down seas with my grandfather, even catching fish."

Pei Muheng understood now.

Country girls had an extraordinary tenacity.

"What did you use to catch the snake just now?"

"This?" Xu Yunqi pulled out the silver needle hidden in her sleeve and patiently explained to Pei Muheng, "There's some medicinal wine on it that can numb small snakes."

"I see."

Pei Muheng was genuinely surprised by his wife's abilities and gained a new understanding of her.

One's wife was not as fragile as she appeared; she had the ability to protect herself, and as her husband, he should be delighted.

"Should I assist you?" He was still concerned that the snake might bite her.

Xu Yunqi recalled her husband's obsessive cleanliness and shook her head with a smile. "I'll be fine."

Pei Mucheng did not insist.

After the brief incident, they remounted their horses and returned to the palace residence.

That night, the couple retired early, but Pei Mucheng did not approach her. Xu Yunqi assumed he had been startled by her snake-catching feat.

The next morning, Pei Mucheng emerged in his court attire. As he stepped out of the threshold, he noticed a shadow guard standing on the steps, hesitant to speak.

"What is it?"

The shadow guard's face wore an expression of indignation. "My lord, yesterday Miss Yinxing informed me that a few days ago, a young lady from the Minister of Justice Liu's family intercepted Madam on her way and had ill intentions."

Pei Mucheng's face turned cold at the news. After a moment of silence, he strode directly towards the Qiankun Hall.

Upon entering, one would learn that Yan Shaoling had returned.

The young noble presented the list of seized assets to the emperor with an air of vibrant enthusiasm on his face.

Upon seeing Pei Muhang, Yan Shaoling nodded respectfully and flashed a bold smile in his direction.

The emperor, in no rush to peruse the report, looked at Yan Shaoling, who had traveled day and night, and smiled warmly,

"Well done on your efficient work. How would you like me to reward you?"

Yan Shaoling laughed heartily, running a hand through the back of his head as he said, "If Your Majesty truly cares for me, why not bestow upon me a wife who would be the embodiment of my deepest desires?"

The Emperor huffed and didn't respond directly. "You must be tired. Go rest and join me for dinner in the Heavenly and Earthly Palace this evening."

Yan Shaoling left with tepid interest.

Upon his departure, the emperor unfolded the memorial and cast a glance over its contents, his expression turning somber.

"Behold, this humble merchant has embezzled an exorbitant amount of silver; such a circumstance cannot be mere chance. This case must be thoroughly investigated. Who among you deems themselves suitable to be dispatched to Jinzhou?"

Yan Ping stroked his beard in deep contemplation, when Pei Muhang stepped forward with a smile to continue the conversation.

"Imperial Grandfather, the three officials accompanying the Emperor on this journey are Minister of Justice Xiao Shangshu and Judge Liu from the Dali Temple. Since Jincheng is so nearby, it would be wise to send a reliable person. Given Minister Xiao's advanced age, it may not be suitable for him to travel extensively. It seems that it will fall upon Judge Liu to make the journey personally."

Prince Qin has meticulously set the trap for the Crown Prince. There must be a scapegoat in such a situation. Lady Liu's reliance is solely on her father, Lord Yiqing, who holds an influential position. Eliminating her would not only weaken Prince Qin's power but also serve as vengeance for his wife.

Yan Ping heard this and gave Pei Muhang a casual glance. He was also contemplating how to deal with the aftermath for Prince Qin and considering who would be the most suitable sacrifice. To his surprise, Pei Muhang had made the decision for him, so Yan Ping went along with it, "Your Majesty, smuggling gunpowder is no trivial matter. It would be most appropriate for Lord Liu to take on this task."

The Emperor approved.

On that night, Yan Shaoling placed two severed heads on the negotiation table before the envoys of Da Wu, his arrogance unparalleled.

"You pretended to build bridges while secretly plotting, thinking our Great Jin is easy to deceive? Let me tell you, honestly deliver the warhorses or we'll cut off your tea and silk. See how your nomads in the grasslands will survive without them!"

Silk, besides being used for garments of the nobility, could also be made into soft armor worn beneath armor, capable of deflecting a dozen arrows without causing death. It was a crucial military asset for cavalry. When the third prince of Da Wu saw his plan fail, his heart sank; the subsequent negotiations crumbled like a mountain collapsing, as they were overwhelmed by Great Jin.

Experience is indeed the spice of life. The emperor struck a ten-year pact with Da Wu but secretly supported the khan's younger brother, offering incentives for fraternal rivalry, thus stabilizing the border situation.

As the negotiations drew near their conclusion, the emperor, on the tenth day of April, hosted a Grand Longevity Banquet. This dual-purpose celebration marked his sixty-second birthday and bid farewell to the envoys.

That night, the Yongning Palace was illuminated with bright lights and filled with the clinking of cups.

Halfway through the banquet, the emperor left Prince Qin in charge to oversee the festivities and retired to his sleeping quarters. After being coaxed into a few more cups of wine by his subjects, the emperor became somewhat dazed and unwell. Leaning against a curved armchair for support, he asked Liu Xiwen,

"Why isn't Xun-ge here?"

Liu Xiwen took the sobering soup from a eunuch's hand and placed it before the emperor. He replied, "After sparring with the envoys that day, the twelfth prince's leg injury worsened. He drank a bit of wine earlier and experienced severe pain, so he excused himself from the banquet."

With his hand pressed to his forehead, the emperor drooped his eyelids without responding.

After dozing off for a brief moment, he vaguely heard hurried footsteps outside. Suddenly, the emperor snapped open his eyes to see General Yang Yun, the commander of the Jinyu Guard, entering the room by lifting the curtain. Dressed in armor and with a tense expression, the general knelt on one knee and said,

"Your Majesty, something has happened in the capital."

The emperor abruptly sat up straight and asked in a grave tone, "What has happened?"

Yang Yun quickly reported, "There was an explosion at a manor near Ciheng Temple in the western district of the palace. It was found to be stockpiling gunpowder."

Upon hearing this, a tic formed on the emperor's forehead, his face filled with disbelief. "What are you saying?!"

Cihun Temple was an imperial shrine built by the emperor's decree to enshrine the late empress's spirit tablet and allow the common people to offer incense to her memory, benefiting from her blessings. The empress had passed away at a young age, leaving the crown prince only a child when she died. The emperor often dreamed of his deceased wife worrying about their son. Thus, he granted the courtyard near Cihun Temple to the crown prince, allowing him to pay respects to his mother for several days each month. Afterward, the empress ceased appearing in the emperor's dreams, and he slept soundly.

This area had always been the private property of the crown prince, with the emperor never interfering.

In recent years, there were occasional whispers that the crown prince secretly kept dancing girls here. The emperor reprimanded him a few times, believing the prince would mend his ways. To his shock, the prince was now stockpiling gunpowder.

What was he planning to do?

Fury surged across the emperor's forehead, and his gaze narrowed. "Explain exactly what is happening!"

Yang Yun replied, "In the previous Tongzhou grain warehouse case, Governor Chen Mingshan of Tongzhou, acting on the crown prince's instructions, amassed wealth and profits. Although most of the grain was sold on the market, a small portion went missing. The Board of Censors has been investigating its whereabouts, eventually tracing it back to Cihun Temple. It turns out that not only did His Highness the Crown Prince hide his ill-gotten gains here, but he also secretly stored weapons and gunpowder within the temple. This afternoon, a massive fire broke out, causing an explosion that affected nearby residences."

"Prime Minister Xun immediately ordered the area sealed off and the fire extinguished. However, the problem is that rumors have suddenly spread throughout the city, claiming that the crown prince is plotting a rebellion."

The vicinity of Cihun Temple in West Jing was on the emperor's route when returning to the palace. If explosives were concealed there, the emperor would have no chance of survival.

"I just received an urgent message from Prime Minister Xun, requesting a rapid decision. Please, Your Majesty, peruse this report!"

Yang Yun raised the memorial written by Xun Yunhe above his head, presenting it to the emperor.

The aged emperor slumped heavily against the backrest of his armchair, his eyes lifelessly fixated on the letter before him, silent for a long moment.

Liu Xiwen grew anxious. "Your Majesty, there might be unrest in the capital. You must make a swift decision!"

With the gunpowder explosion, the prince's affairs could no longer be concealed. Now that the emperor was on an imperial tour, it was uncertain if the prince might not resort to desperate measures.

The emperor's gaze drooped, his weathered face, etched with lines of experience, revealing a rare blend of fatigue and despondency. Nonetheless, he was the holy ruler who held dominion over thousands of miles of land. The emperor quickly rallied his spirits, sitting resolutely behind his imperial desk. "Yang Yun, heed my command."

"At your service, Your Majesty!"

"Dispatch five thousand elite soldiers to swiftly secure the imperial palace without delay. Above all, do not alarm the ambassadors!"

"Your servant obeys the imperial command!"

"Liu Xiwen, prepare the imperial edict, summon Prince Pei Xun of the Twelve Princes…." His words trailing off as he recalled Pei Xun's grave injuries, the Emperor's tone faltered momentarily as he pondered which of his sons or grandsons was capable enough for the task at hand. Swiftly, his thoughts turned to Pei Muheng, and his gaze hardened with resolve. "Summon the Seventh Imperial Grandson to the palace, bestowing upon him the title of Prince Zhāomíng of the Commandery. Let him lead My imperial decree to the Yan Prefecture Garrison, where he shall summon troops to hasten to the capital, awaiting My return!"

"Adhering to your command!"

"In addition, Lord Liuwen is to attend to the foreign envoy, while all other princes and high-ranking officials are summoned to the Qiankun Hall for an audience!"

"I shall attend to it immediately!"

Moments later, the armored palace guards moved stealthily through the imperial retreat, swiftly occupying key positions. The ladies returned to their palaces to await orders, while ministers and royal relatives were escorted to the Qiankun Hall for safety.

Upon hearing the rumors, Duke Wen of the State of Wen was secretly alarmed. To prevent any leakage of secrets, he spent the night at the embassy, indulging in merrymaking with the envoy's delegation until dawn – but that is another story.

Prince Qin, leading the nobles and officials, was summoned one by one to the Qiankun Hall. Though he was well aware of the situation, he pretended to be deeply drunk, leaning on the shoulder of a eunuch, seemingly unconscious.

Xiao Yu, unaware of the true circumstances, exchanged worried glances with the other ministers, all of them appearing fearful and uneasy.

Yan Ping stood alone in his scarlet robe at the head of the assembly, silent and composed.

When Pei Xun emerged to fulfill his duty, he encountered the eunuchs carrying the wounded Twelfth Prince into the hall. The two relatives exchanged a glance, both revealing a hint of complexity. Pei Xun, supported by others, touched Pei Muheng's shoulder as he descended, softly saying, "Be cautious on your journey."

Pei Muheng looked calmly at Prince Qin and the others, holding the tiger talisman in his hand. He stepped forward, walked swiftly down the steps, and, under the dark night sky, mounted his horse, galloping rapidly towards Yan State.

Moments later, the emperor summoned everyone into the hall. The elderly ruler had changed into a bright yellow dragon robe and sat silently behind the imperial desk. The sudden turmoil during the birthday celebration was a tremendous blow to him.

At first, his anger had stirred up a nauseating sensation in his throat. Gradually regaining his composure, the emperor narrowed his eyes, casting a suspicious glance at Prince Qin, Prince Chen, and the others.

Both Prince Qin and Prince Chen were flushed with drink, their faces bearing a sense of naive bewilderment.

Soon, a sobbing voice shattered the silence in the hall.

The imprisoned crown prince knelt before the steps, weeping loudly, "Imperial Grandfather, Father would never do anything to betray you. This must be the work of wicked men trying to frame him. You must investigate and clear his name!"

Prince Qin's ally, the Seventh Prince, turned his head and shouted towards the entrance, "What proof do you have that the crown prince is innocent?"

From outside the hall, the imperial grandson's voice echoed, strained and desperate, "I am the best evidence! Why would Father abandon me? By keeping me by Imperial Grandfather's side, he shows his utmost loyalty."

Horrified at the possibility of swaying the emperor, the Seventh Prince promptly retorted, "Pah! How dare you lie so shamelessly! The wealth the crown prince amassed was hidden in Ci'en Temple. After your father imprisoned him last time, he held a grudge. Now, while our father is on an inspection tour, he has plotted to kill him. He must have planted explosives near the West City Gate, planning to eliminate us all. What a wicked heart he has!"

Finished with his accusations, the Seventh Prince knelt within the hall, his eyes red with righteous fury, "Father Emperor, hiding weapons is tantamount to treason. I beg you to thoroughly investigate the crown prince as a warning to others!"

Seeing how the Seventh Prince was hastily condemning the crown prince, Xiao Yu calmly intervened, "Seventh Prince, no conclusions should be drawn until the facts are verified." As the Minister of Justice, Xiao Yu always adhered to the truth.

The emperor ignored them both, instead gazing silently into the vast expanse of the sky.

In the dead of night, thunder rumbled tumultuously as Pei Muheng arrived at the Yan Prefecture encampment amidst a deluge of pouring rain. Clasping in his hand both the imperial edict and the tiger tally, he swiftly assumed command of the military forces stationed there. Without delay, he proceeded to arrange troops through the night, hastening towards the outskirts of the capital to provide strategic support for the emperor.

Along the way, a covert guard asked him, "This time, there's no way the Crown Prince can escape, right?"

Pei Muheng gazed upon the capital city, its outlines gradually emerging in the soft morning light, his expression indifferent.

Of course, there was no escape from it.

Not only was the Crown Prince unable to escape, but Prince Qin had also fallen into the trap.

The following day, Duke Wen of the Kingdom set out early to escort the envoy beyond the borders. Upon receiving word that Pei Mushan was safe and sound, the emperor finally set off for the capital.

The return journey was swift; they departed before dawn had fully broken and arrived at the outskirts of the capital by evening. The rapid pace of the horses caused the carriages to jolt violently, leaving the ladies somewhat unwell. Pei Mushan took care of her mother throughout, while Xu Yunqi rode alone. She was inherently indifferent, with few things able to trouble her. Thus, during the journey, she focused on creating a set of rouge for Pei Mushan.

Upon reaching the Western City Gate, a thin mist shrouded the area, and banners filled the sky. All the officials who had stayed behind, both civilian and military, were waiting outside the gate.

Pei Mushan poked half her head out from the front carriage, pointing at Pei Musheng, who wore silver armor ahead, and exclaimed, "Sister-in-law, look at Brother! He looks so handsome in his armor!"

Pei Mushan's words successfully drew the attention of the young ladies along the road.

Before Xu Yunqi could react to the situation, a commotion erupted from the other carriages along the road. Many young ladies leaned out curiously, exclaiming,

"Wow, it's indeed Third Prince."

"How handsome! I wonder who could possibly catch his eye?"

"You're overthinking it. Third Prince is detached from the world; he wouldn't understand the joys of love and romance..."

"Cough, cough, let me remind you all that Third Prince is already married..."

After an awkward silence, the conversation shifted in disappointment.

"Hey, isn't that Vice Premier Xun standing next to Third Prince?"

"Yes, indeed. Vice Premier Xun was entrusted with guarding the capital and holds great favor."

"It's not just his high rank and power. Did you know that since marrying Lady Xun, he has never taken a concubine? For so many years, he has remained devoted to his wife. He's considered a role model among the noble families of the capital. Sister Yunling is truly fortunate to have such a wonderful father..."

Upon hearing the crowd discuss Pei Muheng, Yunquei drew the curtain for Xu Yunqi.

Xu Yunqi held the cinnabar box, casually glancing over to see Pei Muheng clad in armor, revealing his flawless, handsome face. The torchlight illuminated the area, casting sharp contours on his features. His thick eyelashes were like ink strokes, perfectly balanced - not too much, not too little - making him appear otherworldly beautiful.

He stood firm with a spear in hand, and from a distance, one could discern a figure in a crimson robe standing by his side, their appearance partially obscured by the spear. The person's demeanor seemed extraordinary as well.

Xu Yunqi retracted her gaze, dismissing it with a smile.

Soon after, the officials bowed as the emperor entered the city, followed by Pei Muheng and Xun Yunhe, who mounted their horses.

Then, the carriages carrying the officials' families began to roll out.

Xun Yunhe gently pulled on the reins, guiding his horse into the alleyway. At that moment, a distant yet clear voice echoed from the billowing dust behind him,

"Big Sister Yunqi!"

Upon hearing this name, Xun Yunhe swiftly turned around. His dark eyes were like searchlights, swiftly scanning the crowd for the source of the voice. However, the call seemed to have emerged from a distant memory, vanishing quietly amidst the chatter of the crowd.

Pei Muheng, walking alongside, noticed Xun Yunhe standing motionless as if pinned in place, and called out, "Master!"

Xun Yunhe froze for a moment before gradually regaining his composure.

Pei Muheng noticed the sudden paleness of Xun Yunhe's face and quickly asked, "Are you unwell?"

Xun Yunhe wiped the sweat from his forehead, shook his head, and regained his usual smile. "No, I must have misheard just now." He then spurred his horse forward to catch up with the emperor's carriage.

On Xu Yunqi's side, he was stopped by Madam Jiang's youngest daughter. From the carriage, Madam Jiang's charming and lively face peered out, it was Jiang Yuzhen, Jiang Yuhe's younger sister. Jiang Yuzhen playfully waved at Xu Yunqi and pointed ahead.

Through the misty rain, Xu Yunqi caught sight of a figure sitting regally on a horse, like a piece of jade. From afar, he couldn't discern the man's expression, but he sat motionless in a white robe, waiting at the foot of the city wall for the Jiang family's carriage.

It had been too long since they last met, and Xu Yunqi almost forgot what he looked like. Turning back, he greeted Jiang Yuzhen before lowering the carriage curtain.

As the curtain fell, Jiang Yuhe slowly rode his horse forward from a distance, keeping his gaze straight as he approached the Jiang family's carriage to escort his mother back.

After entering the city, Xu Yunqi remembered that he needed to buy a good medicinal wine. Halfway through the journey, he instructed Nurse Chen, who accompanied the carriage, to inform the princess,

"There's an apothecary near Baoan Temple. I need to purchase some herbs for medicinal dishes, it won't take long. Please ask the princess for her understanding."

Nurse Chen agreed. A few days ago, Princess Xi had accidentally heard Pei Muheng mention that Xu Yunqi could make medicinal cakes. It was reasonable for her to buy some medicine, as long as her daughter-in-law served her son wholeheartedly, Princess Xi would not restrict her. Thus, she allowed Xu Yunqi to leave.

Pei Muheng left two guards to escort his wife. These two guards led the carriage down the main road into a southern alley. After about a quarter of an hour, they reached the street in front of Baoan Temple. At this moment, a buzzing commotion suddenly came from the entrance of the alley ahead, followed by a group of vagrants driving some citizens towards them.

"Help! Save us!"

"Robbery!"

The guards, sensing danger, hastily steered the carriage to the side, preparing to turn around and escape.

"Madam, with the prince's incident, some unscrupulous ruffians have taken advantage of the chaos to commit violence and theft in the city. It seems they've come to plunder amidst this turmoil!"

Upon hearing this, Xu Yunqi promptly lifted the carriage curtains. She caught sight of numerous civilians passing by, while a few shabbily dressed vagrants, armed with all sorts of weapons, were chasing after them. A woman was being held back, weeping as she threw her silver and jewelry out of fear. The vagrants, having acquired their loot, frantically stuffed the treasures into their cloth bags.

The broad avenue descended into chaos.

Nanny Chen hurriedly seated herself on the carriage's yoke. "Turn around and go back!"

Alas, it was too late. The leader of the vagrants had perceived that Xu Yunqi's party was either wealthy or of high status, and with a gesture, a swarm of people rushed forth.

"Hand over your wealth, and we won't make things difficult for you."

The soldiers of the palace were no pushovers. As they released signal rockets, they drew their long swords to engage in battle.

Amidst clashing blades, a series of piercing resonances echoed through the air.

The coachman seized an opening to rush back, attempting to break free from the encirclement. The palace guards were skilled, but alas, they were outnumbered and found themselves trapped at the alleyway's entrance.

"Do you know who's inside? If you have any sense, leave now! Otherwise, you'll meet a graveless death!"

Xu Yunqi took advantage of the chaos to shoot silver needles at the approaching vagrants. Upon impact, they all collapsed.

Noticing the discipline of the palace guards, the leader of the vagrants, fearing a disastrous outcome, chose to fight while retreating. These men came from various backgrounds and possessed an array of unconventional weapons. As one of them made his escape, he ignited a makeshift oil bomb in his hand and threw it directly at Xu Yunqi's carriage.

In a critical moment, a figure in white charged on horseback towards Xu Yunqi. As the flaming ball was about to crash into the carriage, he deflected it with a horizontal sweep of his sword, sending it hurtling back towards the roadside. A muffled groan of pain could be heard, and by the time Xu Yunqi lifted the carriage curtain, the man, clutching his injured shoulder, had already raced past her, leaving only a slender profile in her sight.

Half an hour later, Xu Yunqi arrived safely at Qinghui Garden. To prevent any trouble, the incident of her encounter with bandits was discreetly covered up by the covert guards. Nurse Chen, still shaken, supervised the packing while Silver Apricot helped Xu Yunqi change into clean clothes. The two of them then sat in the eastern chamber, sipping tea.

Silver Apricot, noticing Xu Yunqi's calm expression, asked with concern, "Miss, should I return to the Xu residence and ask Lady to inquire about Young Master Jiang's injuries?"

Xu Yunqi rested her hands on the table and shook her head. "There's no need." Judging from Jiang Yuhe's timely arrival, he must have been following her to that area; otherwise, he wouldn't have appeared so swiftly.

Inquiry, visitation, relentless pursuit?

Nothing quells a heart more swiftly than indifference.

Xu Yunqi, having never experienced the taste of affection, was ignorant of its nature. He supposed that time would heal all wounds.

*

That night in the palace, lanterns illuminated every corner.

Aside from the ladies, both civil and military officials, as well as imperial relatives, awaited orders in the Heavenly Mandate Hall. None dared to depart without the emperor's permission.

Three thousand Jin Yi Wei and three thousand Yu Lin guards were stationed inside and outside the Feng Tian Hall, forbidding anyone from entering or leaving.

In the imperial study, only Liu Xiwen, Xun Yunhe, and Cabinet Minister Zheng, the head of the Ministry of Rites, were present, besides Pei Muheng, who had escorted the emperor back.

Since returning to the imperial study, the emperor had his hands pressed against his forehead, not lifting his head.

Xun Yunhe reported the situation in the Eastern Palace to the emperor, "Ever since the explosion at Ci'en Temple, Your Majesty, I have sealed off the surrounding streets. So far, there are over thirty casualties, and the situation is grim. As the incident involves the Eastern Palace, with the Empress's consent, I have issued orders together with Her Majesty to confine His Highness the Crown Prince and his attendants within the palace. Furthermore, I have instructed the Wu Duwei to apprehend the entire Yang family. All actions will await Your Majesty's judgment after the truth is uncovered."

"By the way, His Highness the Crown Prince has been pleading to see you since the incident occurred," the eunuch reported.

The emperor pressed his temples, not moving an inch, his voice laced with weariness. "Hand this case over to the Three Ministries for a thorough investigation. No member of the royal family is to interfere." It was clear he had no intention of meeting the Crown Prince.

"I shall obey your command," Xun Yunhe bowed.

"Both of you may withdraw. I need some rest…" The emperor waved them away.

Xun Yunhe and Prime Minister Zheng still had official duties to attend to, so they exited the imperial study first. Pei Muheng followed and approached the imperial desk. He placed the tiger talisman, which the emperor had given him the previous night, in the palm of his hand. "Grandson has already mobilized the Yan State Army to protect the imperial carriage. Here is the tiger talisman, Your Majesty."

The emperor was leaning against the imperial couch, his eyes half-open as he gazed at Pei Muheng. After a moment of scrutiny, he nodded. "Put it down."

While others would eagerly cling to military authority, Pei Muheng returned the talisman promptly.

Exiting the imperial study, Pei Muheng stepped into the main hall of the Heavenly Praise Temple, where all the royal relatives and nobles were awaiting orders.

Soon, the emperor's message came through, allowing the civil and military officials to return to their offices but forbidding them from leaving the palace. Yan Ping and the others were about to head back to the cabinet when, shortly after he left, Prince Qin used the excuse of needing to use the facilities and followed him out.

The sky was as dark as ink, and the vast Dānxī courtyard echoed with the eerie calls of cranes on the wind. Yan Ping strolled leisurely towards the base of the steps, where he found Prince Qin lurking in the shadows of a copse on the side of the terrace, awaiting his arrival.

Yan Ping observed Prince Qin with folded sleeves.

Prince Qin smiled wryly and bowed to Yan Ping,

"Uncle, with the grand scheme now firmly established, I humbly entrust you to devise subsequent matters on my behalf."

Yan Ping's tone was chilly as he replied with a slight bow, "Your Highness is skilled in strategic planning, there is no need for an old man like me to offer counsel."

Prince Qin, aware that his action was taken without Yan Ping's approval, hastily explained, "Uncle, I've heard from a little court attendant that His Majesty vomited blood last night. At such a critical moment, how could I not seize the opportunity? Moreover, I've also learned that His Majesty mentioned wanting the younger generation to gain experience, which seems to imply he wishes for you to step aside, Uncle. Are you content to simply wait for what's to come?"

Yan Ping looked at him with a raised eyebrow. In the darkness of the night, Prince Qin's face was obscured by the branches, indistinct. After a moment of silence, Yan Ping chuckled and said, "I know what needs to be done. Your Highness, there is nothing more you need to concern yourself with; just follow His Majesty's intentions."

Prince Qin smiled in return and bowed again. "I rely on your guidance, Uncle."

Once Prince Qin had left, the smile vanished from Yan Ping's face. He shrugged off his sleeves and left the Temple of Heavenly Praise with an icy demeanor.

Two days later, the situation in the palace had stabilized. The head of the Board of Censors and the Minister of Justice, Xiao Yu, led a thorough investigation into the crown prince's alleged rebellion. The officials returned to their respective duties, and it was only then that Pei Muheng found the time to leave the palace.

These past two days, he hadn't closed his eyes, and as soon as he boarded the carriage, he closed them to rest. The shadow guard who had escorted Xu Yunqi that day had finally waited for him to emerge and eagerly slipped in, kneeling at his feet to report,

"Sir, on the day of our return to the capital, Young Lady encountered some refugees on the road. These past two days, I followed the leads and found their hideout; they have all been captured..."

Pei Muheng had already received news of this incident in the palace and, upon learning that Xu Yunqi was unharmed, didn't inquire further. Seeing the shadow guard hesitate to speak, he knew there was more to the story. "Is there anything else?"

The shadow guard looked up hesitantly. "A young man surnamed Jiang passed by that day and saved Young Lady."

"A young man surnamed Jiang?" Pei Muheng straightened slightly, resting his hands on his knees, his expression shifting slightly.

The shadow guard spoke with trepidation, "Sir, you were unavailable in the palace these past two days, so... I took it upon myself to investigate Young Lady's connection with that Mister Jiang. It turns out... that before she was betrothed to you, she was once engaged to him."

Having said this in one breath, the shadow guard lowered his head, not daring to make another sound or look at Pei Muheng's face.

Pei Muheng was genuinely stunned for a long while.

He couldn't deny that upon hearing such news, he wasn't pleased.

No one relished the idea of their partner having a history with someone else.

Yet upon reflection, they were betrothed by the Emperor's command. Before that, he almost married Xun Yunling. Hence, it was not surprising that Xu Yunqi had been engaged before.

"When was the engagement?" Pei Mucheng asked with remarkable calmness.

The secret agent glanced at him discreetly, admiring his composure. "It was about a year ago. Two months after the engagement, the Emperor bestowed the marriage. How could Lord Xu dare to defy the imperial order? He secretly returned Young Master Jiang's betrothal letter, and the Jiang family had no choice but to return Lady Jiang's letter as well."

Pei Mucheng fell silent once more.

The carriage slowly made its way to the palace. Pei Mucheng lifted a corner of the curtain, watching the outside world in silence. It was already dark, and the lights receded gradually in the drizzle. Unconsciously, he recalled the girl on the grassland, cheerfully twisting a small snake—so innocent and carefree.

Pei Mucheng was a rational man.

Xu Yunqi had endured cold shoulders from others due to the incident involving Xun Yunling but never complained. Now that he knew she had been engaged before, what right did he have to comment?

Pei Mucheng returned to the palace with a composed expression.

As usual, he first went to Jinhe Hall to pay respects to Prince Xi's couple. The princess had caught a cold breeze on her way and suffered a headache, so she didn't ask Pei Mucheng to stay for dinner. He directly returned to Qinghui Garden.

Xu Yunqi had sent Silver Apricot out to buy a fine jar of wine earlier that day. Just as she released the little snake into the glass jar, the mistress and servant were admiring it together.

The beaded curtain was pushed aside, revealing a tall and slender figure entering.

Silver apricot, who had always been somewhat afraid of Pei Muheng, quietly bowed and carried the glass jar into the corner room before hastily withdrawing.

With her hands clasped together, Xu Yunqi stood by the bric-a-brac shelf, smiling at him. "Third Master is back. Have you had your meal?"

This time, Pei Muheng looked at her with a rather complicated expression. "Not yet."

Xu Yunqi thus ordered the servants to serve the food. Since she had already eaten, she watched him from the side as he dined.

After trying a few dishes, Pei Muheng set his chopsticks down.

Chen nanny cleared the table, and the couple sat in the main room sipping tea.

Damp air from the rain, carried by the wind, swept in. The flickering light created a quiet atmosphere as the two sat without a word.

Xu Yunqi sensed that Pei Muheng was different today.

They had been married for half a year, but their time spent together could be counted on one hand. Nevertheless, Xu Yunqi had a clear understanding of her husband's habits. Pei Muheng was usually refined and handsome, treating others with courtesy and respect. However, beneath this facade, he was cold and indifferent. He expected his wife, Yunqi, to behave properly in the inner courtyard, not causing trouble, and bearing him an heir. Anything beyond that, he didn't really concern himself with.

Xu Yunqi held the same thought, and they cooperated harmoniously, treating each other with respect and courtesy.

But today, there was a noticeable shift in Pei Muheng's demeanor. He seemed less polite than usual, replaced by a certain aloofness.

Normally, he would never have the time to be silent around her. This change could only mean that he had learned about her encounter with Jiang Yuhe.

That day when Jiang Yuhe saved her, Pei Muheng's secret agents were present, as was Nurse Chen. She knew it was inevitable that the truth would come out.

Even though they lacked any emotional connection as a couple, such matters were still considered taboo.

Pei Muheng's silence didn't last long. Instead, he inquired about the snake,

"What are its benefits?"

With a gentle tone, Xu Yunqi explained, "It promotes longevity, dispels wind, and invigorates the blood." She omitted mentioning its aphrodisiac properties.

"How long does it need to be brewed?" Pei Muheng was genuinely curious.

Under the soft glow of the lamp, his wife's smiling face bloomed like a flower, her eyes curving into crescents. "It can be consumed after three months, but the longer it brews, the better it is."

Pei Muheng nodded, but his smile didn't reach his eyes. "I'll serve some to Father later."

Xu Yunqi immediately agreed. "Alright."

The drizzle was like silk threads, weaving a veil that enveloped the entire Qinghui Garden, casting a sense of oppression upon everyone's hearts.

Nanny Chen stood outside the door, deeply worried. Before their visit to the palace, the couple had never slept in the same room. Now, with the recent incident, Nanny Chen wondered how they would manage to sleep together tonight.

Pei Muheng glanced at the corner where a copper hourglass stood. It was late, and he hoped his wife would take the initiative to ask him to stay, so he could be reassured of her loyalty.

As for Xu Yunqi, she too cast a furtive glance at the somber sky, aware that everything was well in the palace retreat. Prince Pei Muheng had given no indication of staying, evidently still mindful of that particular matter.

Both spouses were awaiting the other to initiate conversation.