Chapter 71

Chapter 71

Snowflakes fell thickly, melting on his cheeks into icy water, quickly extinguishing the restless spark within him with its biting cold.

What significance did this inexplicable emotion hold for him?

Pei Xun knew better than anyone when he should act and what he should do.

Understanding this, his gaze grew even more resolute.

Upon seeing Pei Xun unexpectedly in the inner courtyard, Wen Ruyu was first astonished, then she frowned.

"Prince Twelfth, why have you come here?" Her words implied that he had been too hasty.

Pei Xun still didn't glance at her, his eyes fixed on Xu Yunqi.

Xu Yunqi met his peculiar gaze, her smile fading as her brows knitted together, clearly on guard.

At that moment, a tall and thin man appeared behind Pei Xun. His pale face suggested a life drained by debauchery, devoid of vitality. He was none other than Wen Ruyu's husband, Cheng Xin, the Duke of Chengguo.

He stood outside the threshold, casting a subtle glance at Wen Ruyu. "Ruyu, come out. Prince Twelfth has something to say to Yunqi."

Wen Ruyu was immediately taken aback. Noticing Pei Xun's cold expression, she promptly pulled Xu Yunqi behind her and stared vigilantly at him.

"What do you intend to do? Yunqi is my guest, and I treat her like a sister. If you dare harm her, I'll fight you to the death!"

Upon hearing this, Cheng Xin's blood boiled. He strode across the threshold, hastening his steps to reach the main pavilion's veranda. Facing Wen Ruyu, he bellowed,

"Don't be foolish! The prince's words are akin to imperial decrees. Step aside quickly!" As Cheng Xin spoke, he reached out to pull Wen Ruyu.

Wen Ruyu fiercely shrugged off his arm, drawing Xu Yunqi further back. "Someone, help!" She scanned the courtyard, suddenly realizing that it was eerily quiet. None of the familiar maidservants or matrons were in sight, sending a chill down her spine.

Terrible!

This must have been planned!

Wen Ruyu was well aware of the undercurrents between Pei Xun and Pei Muheng. It was clear that Pei Xun now aimed to use Xu Yunqi as leverage against Pei Muheng.

What alarmed her even more was how her husband, Cheng Xin, had become entangled in this mess. Fuming with anger, she lashed out at Cheng Xin.

"Vile creature! Our Cheng Duke's Manor and Wen Duke's Manor have never been involved in political factions. Why on earth did you drag yourself into this? Let me warn you, if my father finds out, he'll tear you to pieces!"

Wen Ruyu noticed that neither Cheng Xin nor Pei Xun showed any reaction after her outburst.

Something was amiss.

Suddenly, she realized something, and she hastily retreated, her slender back slamming against the wall as she trembled violently in fear.

Who else in this world could order Cheng Xin around besides her father?

So that was how it was.

Wen Ruyu broke down in tears. "Yunqi, Yunqi, what should we do?" She nervously grabbed Xu Yunqi's wrist and pulled her behind her for protection.

Seeing Wen Ruyu frightened, Pei Xun quickly tried to reassure her,

"Ruyu, don't be afraid, and don't panic. I just want to have a few words with Yunqi. Trust me, I would never harm her!"

"Pah!"

Wen Ruyu glared at him with reddened eyes, "If you still consider yourself a man, release Yunqi and have a fair duel with Pei Musheng!"

Pei Xun closed his eyes briefly without another word. He merely cast a glance at Cheng Xin.

Cheng Xin's face turned cold as he signaled a few guards to come forward.

Seeing figures leaping onto the roof, Wen Ruyu was both horrified and enraged, her complexion turning purple.

She couldn't allow anything to happen to Yunqi under her watch.

After all, Wen Ruyu was born into a military family, inheriting a fiery spirit deep within. In a moment of desperation, she suddenly plucked a golden hairpin from her hair, holding it against her throat as she yelled at Cheng Xin and the others approaching,

"If you take one more step, I'll show you how I'll end my life!"

"My father, even if involved in the struggle for succession, would never neglect my life as his daughter!"

This desperate act indeed forced Cheng Xin and the guards to halt their steps. They exchanged uncertain glances.

However, Pei Xun merely furrowed his brow before continuing to issue orders.

A stone swiftly struck Wen Ruyu's wrist, causing her golden hairpin to fall. Cheng Xin then pounced forward and restrained her.

Wen Ruyu was furious, kicking and punching at him while yelling at Xu Yunqi behind her,

"Yunqi, hurry inside, hide!"

Her eyes, now deep pools of despair, brimmed with tears as she cried bitterly.

Xu Yunqi remained composed. She gave Wen Ruyu a profound glance before quickly retreating indoors with her medical kit.

Pei Xun watched her slender figure vanish beyond the threshold. Lifting his hand, he signaled for Cheng Xin to half-drag, half-carry Wen Ruyu out while the other guards surrounded the main courtyard like a solid wall.

One of them approached the door, crouching outside the threshold. With a sudden push, the door swung open, revealing Xu Yunqi standing behind a table, her medical kit already open, prepared for action.

An attendant attempted to rush in and seize her kit, but Pei Xun intervened. He circled around and waved the guard away, then confidently stepped into the main chamber.

The room was spacious, with a long, raised table along the northern wall, adorned with fruits, candles, and an image of Laojun on the wall. Two poetic couplets adorned the sides of the portrait, which was a painting personally inscribed by the emperor during the late Duke Chengguo's sixtieth birthday. The Cheng family treasured it and displayed it here for veneration.

South of the long table sat an eight immortals table, behind which Xu Yunqi stood. Pei Xun leisurely strolled to face her and took a seat.

Daylight cascaded through the lattice behind him, casting his features in an enigmatic shadow, but revealing the gentle tap of his slender fingers on the tabletop and a hint of a smile playing on his lips.

"Yunqi, let's have a talk."

Xu Yunqi gazed at his hands with a cold detachment, fearlessly meeting his gaze. "About what?"

Pei Xun had no intention of being indirect; he spoke candidly,

"At first, this marriage was forced upon you. If given the choice, I doubt you'd want to stay in the palace, wouldn't you? I believe Yunqi would prefer the freedom to practice medicine unhindered rather than being subjected to constant scrutiny."

As Pei Xun spoke, a tinge of bitterness flickered across his wistful eyes.

"For just one day, stay here. Once the situation is settled, your father will still hold the position of Prime Minister, and you'll be free to 'leap like a fish in the vast sea, soar like a bird in the high sky.'"

No matter how much he cared for her, love didn't entail possession.

Indeed, he could wait until the kingdom was stabilized before bringing her into the imperial palace, showering her with boundless favor and prestige. But he wouldn't.

Granting her freedom was the most significant bargaining chip he had in his negotiations with her and Xun Yunhe today.

Xu Yunqi was a spirit swallow, not meant to be caged within the palace walls; he had always firmly believed in this truth.

But letting go was a significant challenge for a man accustomed to control, one with aspirations of becoming the future emperor.

Pei Xun secretly took a deep breath, suppressing the desire that lurked deep within him. He regained his smile and declared solemnly,

"I, Pei Xun, swear by the heavens, I will not break my word!"

Unfortunately, the lady before him was no ordinary person. Upon hearing this, she merely chuckled softly and sat down beside him, her smile frosty.

"Prince Twelve, have you forgotten something?"

"What is it?"

Xu Yunqi smiled. "My maternal grandfather is still in your hands."

Pei Xun had anticipated this, and he sighed. "I promise, once everything is settled, I will release your grandfather."

Xu Yunqi's lips curled in mocking disdain. "Is that so? My grandfather might hold evidence of your mother's crime. Are you truly willing to spare him?"

Pei Xun had anticipated her response and chuckled, shaking his head. "When I'm in that position, do you really think these matters will still matter? As long as your maternal grandfather hands over the evidence, he'll pose no threat to me. Besides, Mu Heng has already exposed this matter, and it's common knowledge among the officials. All I need to do is clarify any doubts. I plan on using the autopsy to confirm Xihwang's guilt in the murder of Dr. Liu, thus clearing my mother's name and implicating the Xihuang Palace."

"So you've planned everything out," Xu Yunqi said with a cold tone.

Pei Xun gazed into her eyes and asked, "Do you have any more doubts now?"

Xu Yunqi didn't respond to his question but instead looked at the fleeting shadows outside the window. Her clear apricot-colored eyes were filled with frostiness.

"Am I unable to leave this place today?"

Pei Xun nodded solemnly. "Yunqi, those who understand the times are the true heroes. You're a smart person. By making a deal with me, you won't suffer any losses. In the worst-case scenario, regardless of whether I or Mu Heng wins, your family, the Xuns, will remain safe."

At this point, Xu Yunqi couldn't help but acknowledge that Xun Yunhe, as the leader of the cabinet, with his years of prestige and accomplishments in the court, was her strongest support and the foundation of her turnaround today.

Didn't she come here alone, relying on the fact that Pei Xun needed Xun Yunhe and wouldn't dare to harm her?

After realizing this, Xu Yunqi fell silent for a long while.

Pei Xun assumed she was weighing her options and warned her, "Don't engage in a futile struggle. In the end, it will only hurt yourself."

"I wish to meet my maternal grandfather," Xu Yunqi lifted her gaze and spoke calmly.

Pei Xun was left speechless upon hearing this.

"Yunqi, do you really think I'd fall for your trap?"

Alone and appearing vulnerable, there was no doubt in Pei Xun's mind that Pei Muhang had intentionally used Xu Yunqi as bait to lure out the old man's true hiding place.

He wouldn't give her such an opportunity.

Xu Yunqi, hearing this, picked up the now-cold teacup from the table, sipping gently from it with an air of leisure. "Then forget it. Whether you choose to kill or imprison me, it's all up to you."

Pei Xun immediately frowned at her words.

If Xu Yunqi didn't cooperate, things would become much more complicated.

According to the plan, he needed a handwritten letter from her to force Xun Yunhe into issuing military orders.

Given Xun Yunhe's seasoned nature, unless it was Xu Yunqi's own handwriting and he was certain of her safety, he wouldn't heed any of Pei Xun's commands.

Pei Xun would not resort to force unless absolutely necessary.

"Yunqi, don't burden yourself. I promise that within a day, you will see your maternal grandfather," he assured her.

Xu Yunqi's expression was resolute, with a hint of determination in her eyes. "I was raised by my maternal grandfather. He is the most important person in my life. No matter who Xun Yunhe is, no matter what Pei Muheng is, or the struggle for the throne – none of it matters to me. I won't submit to any coercion until I see him!"

"Do you know why I'm here today? Let me make it clear: Pei Muheng forbade me from coming, but I still did. I will go against all odds to be by my grandfather's side. As long as I can see him, I'll brave any danger! Through fire and over mountains, I will go!"

Through fire and over mountains, I will go...

The strength and fierce determination in Xu Yunqi's eyes momentarily captivated Pei Xun. It seemed he didn't fully understand her; perhaps this was her true nature.

No wonder she hadn't brought her loyal servant, Silver Apricot. She had clearly prepared for this. With Pei Xun's astuteness, he naturally suspected Xu Yunqi might be a bait set by Pei Muheng. However, her confession took him slightly aback.

But so what?

Pei Xun's eyes narrowed, revealing a hint of darkness.

"Yunqi, I apologize for any offense caused!"

*

The sky had already darkened, resembling the depths of night, at the early hour of the Hour of Sheep.

Vast swaths of snowflakes danced gracefully in the sky, layering the heavens with dense blankets of dark clouds. The entire horizon seemed on the verge of collapsing under their weight.

Perhaps the tense atmosphere in the court had permeated the city, for the vast capital was unusually sparsely populated with pedestrians on its streets.

Pei Muhang and Yan Shaoling stood atop the grandest lookout tower in the very center of the capital city.

The Wudou Guard, overseeing the patrol and investigation of the imperial capital, establishes a watchtower at every li along the way. On ordinary days, these structures are manned by a trio of guards who vigilantly scan the horizon for signs of fire and apprehend any would-be thieves. In the event of significant upheaval or crisis, the watchtowers further serve as vital conduits for transmitting crucial military intelligence.

This grandest of watchtowers stands south of the Zhengyang Gate, a league away from the palace gates. From its vantage point, one can overlook a significant portion of the city's landscape.

Pei Muheng chose this location precisely because it lies on the central axis where the Cheng Duke's Mansion intersects with the Wen Duke's Mansion. From his vantage point, he can observe the dynamics of both estates clearly.

Standing alongside the two, there was another person — none other than the very Silver Apricot left behind by Xu Yunqi.

She cautiously peered around the pillar of an observation tower, her eyes eagerly fixed on the direction of the Chengguo Duke's residence, sobbing softly and intermittently.

This lady truly has immense courage. What would happen if something went wrong?

Just then, a military marquis pointed in the direction of the Wen Duke's residence and said,

"General, look! Four carriages have left the Wen Duke's mansion, each heading towards a different direction!"

Yan Shaoling, clad in silver armor, lifted his gaze to see the flickering lights in the alleys near the Wen Duke's mansion amidst the dark night. He wiped his brow and grumbled,

"This old fox, if he had the guts, he'd engage in a fair fight instead of resorting to such underhanded tricks." With disdain, he glanced at Pei Muheng and asked, "Shall we pursue?"

Pei Muheng redirected his gaze from the Cheng Duke's residence to the Wen Duke's and replied,

"Of course we must chase, but it's difficult to determine which carriage the old man is in." He then looked at Xingye and said, "Xingye, it's your turn to act!"

Xingye sniffled, wiped away her tears, and slipped on the golden-threaded vest that the lady had entrusted to her. She declared resolutely,

"Follow me!"

The young maid, full of vigor and determination, led the guards down from the watchtower.

Pei Muheng holds sway over the Wudou Guard, an elite force responsible for patrolling the city. With his troops galloping through the streets under the banner of rightful authority, this constitutes Pei Muheng's greatest advantage. The first stratagem devised by Wen Duke is to employ four horse-drawn carriages, thereby compelling Pei Muheng to disperse his forces.

Pei Muheng was not someone to be trifled with. He remained standing on the lookout tower as usual, awaiting news from Xingyue.

Ginkgo trees stood tall and silent, their golden leaves shimmering in the moonlight. It was under such a serene backdrop that Xu Yunqi and Old Master Zhang had long-established a secret code of communication, an unspoken bond forged by the trio during their years traversing the jianghu. This cryptic language, deeply ingrained in their hearts, had proven to be an unwavering compass throughout the years. No matter how distant the paths they tread or how prolonged their separations, it unfailingly guided them back to each other's side.

Ginkgo was hoisted onto Wang Fan's horse and they raced towards the nearest carriage, crashing into each one they encountered. With every collision, Ginkgo blew a distinctive bird whistle. Three carriages remained unresponsive, but from one heading northwest, a faint distress signal echoed in reply.

Soon, a signal firework secretly flickered in a corner. Upon noticing it, Pei Muheng promptly turned and descended the tower.

Yan Shaoling followed closely behind, the two of them hastening down the watchtower, one preceding the other. Below them, over a thousand Wu Du Guards held aloft torches, each bearing an expression of solemn discipline as they stood in formation awaiting the imperial entourage. After mounting his horse, Pei Muheng gestured towards the direction of the Cheng Guo Gong Mansion, declaring, "Shaoling, it's up to you over there!"

Yan Shaoling sprang gracefully onto his horse, his movements as swift as a leopard's in a furious dash toward the Chengguo Duke's residence.

"Should I fail to save Third Sister-in-law, I shall present myself with my head!"

At his command, a banner waved majestically, and five hundred elite soldiers followed him diligently towards the eastern sector.

Pei Muqing cast a glance at his retreating figure, then abruptly turned his horse's head and galloped northwestward with great speed.

Five hundred guards followed closely behind, with a dozen elite shadow guards from the Xihua Palace protecting them on both sides.

Ahead, Wang Fan had also led a detachment of men to trail the carriage. However, their target fought back while retreating, making it difficult for Wang Fan to catch up to them.

In a moment, the sound of galloping hooves drew near, and the carriage was within sight. Yan Shaoling's deputy commander asked Pei Muheng for instructions,

"Your Highness, should we split our forces?"

Pei Muheng gazed intently at the long alleyway ahead and shook his head. "No need. Avoid splitting our forces at all costs!"

The deputy commander was puzzled. He thought that surrounding the carriage might be a better strategy, but now, their large group was restricted by the narrow alley, limiting their mobility.

Under the cover of night, as Pei Muheng raced forward, he glanced sidelong at the deputy commander. "Do you know the Wen Duke's greatest trait? He excels in setting traps without giving away any clues. If you fall into this line of thinking, you've walked right into his trap."

Scratching his head, the deputy commander failed to grasp the logic but, remembering Yan Shaoling's orders, he nodded obediently. "Very well, I'll follow your Highness's command!"

Thus, the five hundred skilled soldiers continued to trail the carriage until they reached a street in the northern part of the city. Meanwhile, Pei Muheng, Yinxing, and Wang Fan had also converged.

The carriage carrying Elder Zhang raced through two alleys to the northwest before abruptly turning north, seemingly about to reach the main thoroughfare, Fuchengmen Street. The middle-aged coachman glanced behind him.

The pursuers were growing distant, seemingly having halted their chase.

What's happening?

There were over ten people accompanying the carriage on both sides, all skilled guards from Duke Wen's estate. Upon realizing that Pei Muheng and the others had stopped, their expressions changed.

"Why have they stopped chasing?"

This middle-aged man was Duke Wen's trusted general in the military, known for his great battlefield accomplishments. Today, Duke Wen had dispatched him to deal with Pei Muheng.

Looking at the troops retreating like receding tide, the man sensed that something was amiss.

"Why have they stopped chasing?"

His question echoed that of Yan Shaoling's subordinate.

This deputy was not tall but had a robust build. Seeing that they were approaching an open area and would soon catch up to the carriage, he was puzzled by Pei Muheng's sudden retreat.

Does this Duke mean to toy with us?

Pei Muheng sat high on his horse, pointing indifferently ahead. "Do you know what offices lie ahead?"

The deputy general, having patrolled the capital for years, was well-versed in its every corner. Examining the area closely by the torchlight and scanning the nearby watchtowers, he gradually understood the situation.

"If I'm not mistaken, there's the Imperial Censorate's branch office outside Fucheng Gate, as well as the residence of the Tiger Guard's garrison..."

At the mention of the latter, the deputy general suddenly realized something, staring at Pei Muheng in shock. "Is this Duke Wen's scheme?"

The sky had already turned completely dark, while Fucheng Street ahead was illuminated but deserted. The glow at the alley entrance seemed like a sacred flame, drawing people forward, ever forward...

"The Tiger Guard is stationed here to protect the imperial city. Normally, they remain idle without orders. But once summoned, they can break in to defend the throne."

"Do you know who the two middle-ranking officers of the Tiger Guard are? One is undoubtedly the emperor's trusted confidant, and the other is named Zhan You. He once served under Duke Wen. If I'm not mistaken, he must be on duty today. Once we enter the vicinity of the Tiger Guard's garrison, any disturbance will give them a legitimate reason to intervene. With the limited forces of the Wudou Guard on patrol, how could we resist these seasoned imperial soldiers? At that point, our advantage would be negligible."

Duke Wen was indeed Duke Wen. Using a single carriage as bait, he nearly lured them silently into a trap.

Pei Muheng had a habit: he never underestimated any opponent, no matter the circumstances. He disdained enemies strategically but took them seriously tactically – a principle he always adhered to. Thus, he meticulously reviewed Duke Wen's background, listing possible confidants to stay prepared.

If the Wen Duke's sole intention was to hide Elder Zhang safely, the situation would be straightforward.

But the Wen Duke's motives were more intricate than that. As meticulous as Pei Muheng was, he could easily discern the Wen Duke's true purpose – to use Elder Zhang as bait to eliminate him.

Once the other party's intentions became complicated, Pei Muheng could exploit this to his advantage.

Therefore, Pei Muheng retreated to a secure location, waiting for the Wen Duke to deliver the man right into his hands.

Since you wish to kill me, you'll have to dance to my tune!

The news swiftly reached the ears of the Wen Duke.

At that moment, he was seated in a tranquil courtyard, sipping tea.

It was an overgrown and abandoned yard, its grass untended for years, with rustling weeds and the distant sound of water flowing from a nearby artificial mountain, creating an eerie silence around the area.

Many years ago, he had encountered someone here, forging a connection that was now due for resolution.

The Wen Duke sat alone in the central armchair of the courtyard, dressed in his gray Daoist robe. Beside the chair stood a high table with an unfinished game of chess on it. A shadowy guard hurriedly approached, kneeling before him with a look of remorse,

"My Lord, our plan has been uncovered by Pei Muhan. He effortlessly found the real carriage and, after pursuing them to Fengchengmen Street, he retreated silently, leaving us in a difficult position!"

The covert guard dared not meet the Duke of Wen's gaze, bowing his head low.

A single lamp hung under the eave, casting a soft, yellow glow through the tree branches, creating a dense pattern of shadows that brushed across his back, just as it had years ago.

The Duke of Wen sipped his tea, a hint of darkness flickering in his eyes.

Not bad, this Pei Muhan.

He had long known that the third young master of the Pei family was exceptionally clever, but tonight was the first time he had witnessed it firsthand.

The Duke of Wen could be considered half a mentor to Pei Muhan. After witnessing Pei Xun's extraordinary archery skills, Pei Muhan's horsemanship and archery seemed somewhat lacking in the Duke's eyes. However, Pei Muhan was well-read and had a deeper understanding of governance than Pei Xun. In this regard, he was comparable to Xun Yunhe.

Their last encounter with the salt coupons exchange for grain demonstrated this clearly.

But the Duke of Wen hadn't anticipated that Pei Muhan would be so meticulous in his thinking. In tonight's two confrontations, Pei Muhan had come out on top each time.

This young man was no ordinary individual.

The Wen Duke certainly perceived Pei Muhang's intention. As expected, he was exploiting the fact that the Duke desired his death to manipulate the situation.

"So be it?"

After all, he was the Wen Duke, and he quickly turned the tables with the same weapon used against him.

"Bring Elder Zhang to the deserted courtyard, suspend him in the center of the Water Pavilion, and ignite a fuse. We'll wait for Pei Muhang to come to the rescue."

I wished to kill you, thus I presented an opportunity for you to take advantage of.

Now, your desire for Lord Zhang has presented me with an opportunity.

Both of us are evenly matched.

Upon receiving the news, Pei Muheng indeed gave a bitter smile through gritted teeth.

"Experience truly counts!"

Not only did Duke Wen showcase his pawn, he also set a time constraint.

If he were truly that easy to deal with, he wouldn't be the Zhang Liang of this world.

Pei Muheng left no room for hesitation and decisively commanded,

"Attack the Abandoned Garden!"

The Abandoned Garden was not far from the Hu Benwei headquarters. Soon, the carriage was escorted there by Zhan You, and Pei Muheng's troops arrived as well.

Yan Shaoling's subordinate general swiftly deployed his forces to surround the entire garden. Zhan You, the Hu Benwei's Langzhong, sat on his horse with his arms crossed, watching Yan Shaoling with a pained expression.

"What are you doing in the middle of the night?"

The deputy general, not one to back down, puffed out his muscular chest and spat on the ground, "What business is it of yours what I'm doing? Return to your garrison and mind your own affairs! This doesn't concern you!"

Zhanyou was amused by the man's audacity. Without an imperial decree, the Imperial Guards did not lightly leave their posts. He had only a dozen or so men with him, but the Shangliu Guard were one of the six upper guards, directly serving under the emperor. Their status surpassed that of the Wudou Guard. He looked down on the deputy general disdainfully and said, "Let me tell you, it's the duty of my Shangliu Guard to ensure the safety of the Imperial City. If you cause trouble here, I'll certainly hold you accountable!"

The deputy general's eyes widened to the size of copper bells. "That's precisely what I was about to say. Let me tell you, if anything untoward happens in this wilderness, no one will leave alive!"

Zhan You replied, "As long as you make the first move, so will I."

The deputy general smirked arrogantly and pointed at the Imperial City. "I'm responsible for patrol duties around here; law and order fall under my jurisdiction. You, on the other hand, dare to mobilize troops without an imperial edict – are you attempting to rebel?"

He gave a stern glance at the dozen or so imperial guards standing behind Zhan You.

Zhan You's expression immediately darkened.

At that moment, Pei Muheng, fully armed, divided his forces into four groups and leaped into the wilderness garden.

A chilling glint pierced through the darkness of the night.

The Wen Duke sought to confuse him, and he responded in kind.

Several groups of soldiers, uniformly clad in black, approached the lake from different directions.

Seeing this, the Wen Duke's main force was unable to discern Pei Muheng's location and was momentarily unsure where to concentrate their troops. This hesitation presented Pei Muheng with an opportunity to strike.

The Wu Duwei formed a natural barrier, isolating the Hu Benwei, while the clashing of swords and sabers echoed within. Outside, the Wu Duwei soldiers were singing mountain songs, provoking Zhan Yougan's anxiety.

Wen Duke had laid traps everywhere, and Pei Muheng countered with deadly intent in every move.

The battle was evenly matched.

Pei Muheng's forces gradually converged, pushing the frontline from the east to the west. They had already carved out a passage, and soon they would be able to proceed along the Nine-Curve Corridor to the bridge for the rescue.

On Wen Duke's side, the leading general cast a glance at the pavilion in the center of the lake, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. Elder Zhang was bound there, and they had set an elaborate trap, awaiting Pei Muheng to walk straight into it.

Yet, to his surprise,

Despite their fierce combat, the black-clad figures were merely fighting; none of them made any attempt to rescue the person on the lake island.

It was as if their objective was not to save a life but to take one.

The leader of the troops was puzzled once again.

Young Master Pei San was deviously cunning, truly beyond anyone's comprehension.

Thus, he retreated from the battlefield and quietly followed a stone path back to the yard. Wen Duke remained seated, even leisurely tidying up the chessboard. He had set his final trap on the lake island. As Pei Muhang saved Elder Zhang, it was also the moment of his demise.

The battle must be coming to an end, he thought.

But just then, the commander rushed in again, drenched in sweat.

"Duke, Pei Muhang didn't go to rescue anyone!"

Wen Duke's eyes narrowed, and he stood up completely, his face darkening as he asked,

"What is he doing then?"

The commander's cheeks twitched as he uttered two unbelievable words, "Killing people!"

"Our forces are gradually being overwhelmed. The fire has been ignited – shouldn't they be rushing to the bridge for the rescue? Yet, unfortunately, they seem intent on wiping us out."

Luring the troops to the Hu Ben Guard earlier was a trap, and now, retreating while losing, drawing them to the lake island – another trap.

Pei Muheng still refused to take the bait.

The Duke of Wen's expression changed. He discarded the chessboard and strode across the courtyard, heading towards the lake island. In a moment, flames erupted, and the fuse on the island was dangerously close to Elder Zhang.

He didn't believe that Pei Muheng didn't care about Elder Zhang at all, unless he had another trick up his sleeve.

Thoughts swirled in the Duke of Wen's eyes as a sudden idea flashed through his mind. He abruptly turned around and asked the shadow guard behind him,

"Has there been any news from the Twelfth Prince?"

The shadow guard met his icy stare and hastily shook his head. "N-Not yet."

This was not good!

*

At the Cheng Guo Gong's residence.

Pei Xun made no hesitation in attacking Xu Yunqi. Two guards rushed over, one snatching away Xu Yunqi's medical case while the other tried to grab her. With her medical case taken, Xu Yunqi, weaponless, was forced to mimic Wen Ruyu's tactics. She quickly retreated, pulled out a jade hairpin from her hair, and held it against her neck.

"Stay back!"

A lustrous white jade hairpin, resembling a razor's edge, shimmered in the dim light.

Of course, Pei Xun couldn't stand idly by as Xu Yunqi was about to die. He composed himself and raised his hand again, signaling the guards to step back. He attempted to approach Xu Yunqi step by step.

"Yunqi, why must you do this? It's only a day. By this time tomorrow, everything will be revealed. Please listen to me and don't be stubborn."

Pei Xun was cunning as well. While softly comforting her, he subtly blocked her line of sight without drawing attention. The guards seized the opportunity to hide behind him and once more used their stealthy technique, firing a concealed weapon that forced Xu Yunqi to release her grip. The hairpin shattered into two halves upon hitting the ground. Pei Xun didn't give Xu Yunqi another chance, swiftly covering her and grabbing both her wrists.

He quickly flipped her over, pressing her against the wall, securing her wrists. At that moment, a sharp sting pierced his fingers, and before he could react, a numbing sensation spread from his fingertips up his arm.

Pei Xun froze.

Xu Yunqi, seizing her opportunity, turned around and pulled out a hidden crossbow from behind a vase. Swiftly aiming it at Pei Xun's forehead, she spoke calmly.

"Your master has already been poisoned with my 'Intricately Entwined' venom. The antidote is on Pei Muheng. Take me to see my maternal grandfather, or your master will succumb to the poison within an hour."

The two guards displayed shock, looking questioningly at Pei Xun. As he felt the discomfort in his body, he knew Xu Yunqi wasn't lying. The shock on his face gradually faded, replaced by frustration. He had assumed she was cornered when she was about to commit suicide, not realizing he had fallen for her trap.

Upon receiving Pei Xun's signal, one guard immediately rushed out without hesitation. The other took a position ready for a surprise attack, his expression wary as he kept his gaze fixed on Xu Yunqi.

The icy winds battered the windows, resembling the blaring of horns in battle.

Pei Xun's arm had gone numb, yet he gazed at the gentle and delicate maiden before him. Her eyebrows remained soft, her tone non-threatening, but there was an irresistible aura that compelled admiration.

"So, your real intention in secretly entering alone was not to seek your maternal grandfather, but rather to get close to me, isn't it?"

Despite his insight into her motives, Pei Xun did not reveal any obvious anger. Instead, he maintained his composure and praised his opponent.

In this critical moment, Pei Xun could still laugh and chat with ease. Xu Yunqi admired his remarkable calmness.

"Yes, time is running out. Let's go!"

Xu Yunqi lifted her hand to grasp his arm, pushing against his back as they moved towards the exit.

As Pei Xun turned around, he let out a low chuckle.

"A beauty's heart, a needle hidden in the sleeve," he murmured.

*

Just as Wen Duke's expression changed, a figure hurriedly entered the courtyard, accurately recounting the events that had unfolded at Cheng Duke's residence to Wen Duke.

At that very moment, Wen Yinchang was rooted to the spot.

After decades of conquering battlefields, this was his first failure, and it was at the hands of a young man.

And yet, precisely at this juncture, that young man's voice echoed across the water, distant yet clear:

"Duke Wen, do you want the life of Prince Twelve, or mine?"

The choice was obvious.

Surrender Elder Zhang to spare Pei Xun's life.

Wen Duke's face was as still as water. He waved his hand, signaling the commander to release the prisoner.

He turned to look at Pei Muheng. In the night, the tall figure was surrounded by guards, his face concealed by a black cloth, his eyes hidden in the shadows, indistinct to onlookers.

Wen Duke stood resolutely on the terrace, his hands clasped behind his back, gazing into the distance at his opponent.

This game, a web of schemes intricately intertwined, was truly captivating.

It seems that when Pei Xun paid his visit to Xun Yunhe, they had already formulated their strategy.

Displaying weakness to lure the enemy in, using Yunqi as bait with a mix of truth and deception, confusing their adversaries and masking her true intentions. Who could have foreseen that this seemingly helpless woman possessed such cunning skills?

In this contest among men, she was the weakest woman but became the pivotal figure to turn the tide.

Most impressive was Pei Muhang's scheming mind, predicting every move of both him and Pei Xun, with strategic shifts executed with layers of depth. His meticulous planning was terrifyingly brilliant.

"Willing to use his wife as part of a scheme, Muhang's courage and audacity are remarkable!" praised Duke Wen.

Pei Musheng heard this and couldn't help but inwardly scoff.

How could he bear to let Xu Yunqi risk her life? They had argued about it all night, but it was the girl who insisted on stepping forward. Eventually, they concluded that this was the only way to deceive everyone, so they dared to put the plan into action.

Was Pei Musheng truly more skilled than Duke Wen? Not necessarily; he won because he was an underdog.

Duke Wen was hailed as the Zhang Liang of his time, someone who had stood at the pinnacle for far too long. He didn't take a young man like Pei Musheng seriously, and it was precisely this underestimation that gave Pei Musheng his chance.

Duke Wen had always been a role model for him. As he admired the duke's impeccable planning, he also learned the man's patterns of behavior.

"Knowing oneself and one's enemy ensures victory in a hundred battles," the young man said respectfully.

Wen Duke had also taught Pei Muheng horseback riding and archery, so he was worthy of this gesture. At this moment, looking at the young man, he genuinely admired and even feared him a little.

Pei Muheng was the first to push him to such a predicament.

The youth should not be underestimated.

"You've woven a clever web of intrigue and countertricks," Wen Duke praised amidst the night breeze, "but it's not over yet."

Pei Muheng was well aware of the weight behind those words. Wen Duke's main forces were still in the Southern Army camp, where his father, Duke Xi, fought his battles.

In a moment, the commander threw a bloodied old man to the black-clad men. In response, Pei Muheng handed over the antidote. The silver apricot tree that had been hiding behind Pei Muheng rushed forward and embraced the emaciated Zhang Hui.

"Old Master, is that you?" Silver Apricot examined him up and down, recognizing the familiar outline beneath the blood-soaked face. She immediately broke into sobs. "You've suffered greatly!"

At this point, Zhang Hui, barely clinging to life, managed to open his eyes on Silver Apricot's shoulder. With a dry mouth, he struggled to utter a few words,

"An audience with the Emperor... I must have an audience with the Emperor!"

The secret he had unintentionally uncovered, driving him into exile for three decades, was about to be revealed to the world once more.