PM - 24

Wei Shixing had finally returned to the capital after a long journey, bringing with him the man who had falsely delivered the imperial edict.

When Jianye came in to report that Minister Wei was seeking an audience, Fu Wei was kneeling by the water trough, tending to her flowers. Upon hearing the news, she leapt up joyfully and grabbed Jianye, asking, “Where is he?”

Jianye, overwhelmed by the emperor’s sudden burst of happiness, struggled to steady himself while replying, “He’s in the Xuanshi Hall… Ai ai, Your Majesty, please slow down—the sun is strong outside…”

Before he could finish, the young emperor dashed out like the wind. As the most favored eunuch in the palace, Jianye had never seen the emperor so elated. She had always been composed, even during the years when the regents had suppressed her. Today was different—what had caused such excitement? A mere Chief Justice, no less!

Jianye stumbled after her, his wide trousers catching the wind, leaving him feeling cool in places one shouldn’t mention. Unable to keep up, he panted heavily and waved urgently at Bu Hai, “Quickly… go ahead to the Xuanshi Hall… clear out any unnecessary people…”

Bu Hai acknowledged with a sound. Full of youthful energy, he bounded through the southern palace corridor and sprinted toward the western palace.

Wei Shixing stood quietly inside the hall, waiting. Suddenly, he heard hurried footsteps approaching the palace gates. Turning around, he saw the young emperor dressed in black, her cheeks slightly flushed from running under the scorching sun. She smiled upon seeing him, “Minister Wei, you’ve returned.”

The emperor’s teeth were white and even, making her smile exceptionally charming. At fifteen or sixteen, she was still growing rapidly—after just two months, she seemed noticeably taller. Her radiant smile was infectious, melting away the fatigue and exhaustion of the past half-month journey. Wei Shixing’s stern brows softened as he raised his hand to his forehead in a respectful bow: “Wishing His Majesty boundless joy and longevity.”

Before he could fully bow, Fu Wei stopped him, “You’ve worked tirelessly these past months. I just received the eunuch’s report—I’m delighted… So? Has the prisoner been transferred to Yunyang Prison?”

Wei Shixing replied affirmatively, “The prison is full of various individuals, so I didn’t dare relax vigilance. The elite guards you sent have stayed behind to watch over him, allowing me to come to the palace to see you.” He glanced up subtly at her face, “On my way in, I heard from the Secretariat that Your Majesty was attacked recently. It seems those villains are quite bold. The arrests of Yuan Heng and Yan Guang haven’t deterred them—in fact, they’ve grown more reckless… How are Your Majesty’s injuries? Are you alright?”

Fu Wei smiled, “Just a scratch on my face—nothing serious for a true man. Have you interrogated the prisoner? Are all necessary pieces of evidence prepared?”

Wei Shixing replied, “I have secured the false insignia and records of the gate passes issued during curfew hours by the Zhao Prince. With your immediate order to reopen the case, I am confident we can clear the Shangguan family’s name.”

“Excellent!” she exclaimed, clapping him firmly on the shoulder, “Minister Wei, you are my trusted arm. This achievement is significant, and I will reward you handsomely afterward.”

Wei Shixing winced from the force of her slap but laughed, rubbing his shoulder, “They say Your Majesty possesses extraordinary strength. I didn’t believe it until now. Truly impressive!”

Fu Wei felt a bit embarrassed. Her battle with the assassin had likely been exaggerated into legend. If she were a man, it would be worth chronicling, but as a girl, there was nothing particularly praiseworthy about it.

“I will immediately order the retrial of the Wuling case to prevent further complications. Fortunately, both cases are intertwined now, leaving them stretched thin. This is your chance to handle it. Be cautious and don’t disappoint my trust.”

Wei Shixing acknowledged with a solemn nod and took the emperor’s written decree to Yunyang Prison. On the way, he encountered the Chancellor’s carriage. A gust of wind lifted the curtain, revealing the dignified and handsome face of the powerful minister, exuding authority without effort. Wei Shixing stood by the roadside and bowed, but the Chancellor didn’t even glance his way—such insignificant figures weren’t worthy of his attention.

Wei Shixing chuckled self-deprecatingly, mounted his horse again, and before entering Yunyang, he first visited Shangguan Zhao in the main prison. Once a proud noble, he had grown gaunt after his downfall. Treason was nearly an unforgivable crime, and even this once-vibrant gentleman had succumbed to fate, his spirit extinguished.

Wei Shixing stood silently by the prison gate for a long while. Shangguan Zhao seemed oblivious, forcing Wei to approach and call out softly through the wooden bars, “Master.”

He slowly turned his head, his deep-set eyes captivating even for a man—one might exclaim their beauty.

“Are you addressing me?”

Wei Shixing nodded. When Shangguan Zhao moved closer, he whispered, “His Majesty has ordered me to reopen the Wuling case. I’ve apprehended the envoy who falsely delivered the imperial edict that day—he’s now imprisoned in Yunyang. Master, just wait a few more days. His Majesty… cares deeply for you.”

After such a long time, this was the first good news. Shangguan Zhao stood there, stunned, before finally saying, “Thank you.” To a close friend, gratitude didn’t need to be expressed aloud. The young emperor hadn’t forgotten him—she still thought of him.

Meanwhile, back in the Zhangde Hall, Fu Wei felt serene with newfound hope. Outside, news trickled in, each word sinking deeply into her ears. No matter how the winds shifted, her resolve remained unshaken.

Her facial wound, treated with the medicine provided by the Chancellor, healed remarkably well. Just the previous night, a long scab had formed, but upon waking, it had vanished, leaving only a faint line. Unless scrutinized closely, even she couldn’t find it.

Thus, everything was progressing favorably. That morning, Wei Shixing had informed her that the major trial of the Wuling case would take place today. She knew A’zhao would soon be released, lifting her spirits further. She summoned Bu Hai to help her change into a formal robe. Disliking the perpetually dark colors, she instructed him to tell the Minister of the Imperial Household to choose lighter fabrics next time—casual wear didn’t need to be so somber.

Seeing her cheerful demeanor, Jianye cautiously ventured, “Your Majesty, the end of next month marks your grand wedding celebration—are you pleased?”

She hummed, “Yes, I’m happy.”

“And have you mastered all the techniques on the fire-avoidance chart? Yesterday, all the palace maidens were dismissed. Perhaps throughout history, you are the only ruler who hasn’t practiced beforehand.” He blinked, adding, “Yesterday, I visited the Yong’an Palace on your behalf to inquire after the Empress Dowager’s health…”

“What did the Empress Dowager say?”

Jianye mimicked the Dowager’s tone, “If it really doesn’t work out, have the chief eunuch demonstrate for His Majesty.”

Fu Wei turned in surprise, “Demonstrate what? They’re castrated—how can they demonstrate?”

But Jianye, confident, replied, “Although we lack certain tools, we can draw diagrams! For example, where things should go and where Your Majesty’s dragon root should enter—we can show you clearly.”

Proud of his cleverness and loyalty, he expected praise from the young emperor. Instead, he received a sharp kick, earning a terse “get out” spat through clenched teeth. He hastily fled the hall, muttering inwardly, Good intentions get struck by lightning. If he weren’t utterly devoted to his sovereign, who would willingly expose such awkward parts for scrutiny?

Leaning against a pillar to catch his breath, he noticed a figure ascending from below the red steps. He quickly greeted the Chancellor with a bow, but the latter ignored him, striding directly into the Zhangde Hall. Only upon seeing the young emperor did he stop.

The emperor turned, smiling faintly, “Father Chancellor grows increasingly disciplined.” Jianye, perceptive, detected anger in her tone and discreetly retreated.

The Chancellor had come regarding the Wuling case. The person he had painstakingly nurtured was now determined to oppose him. Previously, he could rebut pardons with righteous indignation, but now Wei Shixing held imperial orders, and the trial procedures adhered strictly to norms—making interference difficult even for the Chancellor.

“Has Your Majesty made up your mind?” he asked icily. “This case is significant. Once a precedent of pardon is set, similar future cases will invite criticism.”

“What criticism?” she retorted, standing impatiently. “I act on evidence, not personal bias, as you know. Must everyone associated with rebellion be punished regardless of guilt? Our laws are strict, yet ordinary citizens seek justice. The Shangguan family are nobles—are you urging me to create false accusations?”

She was stubborn now, unwilling to back down. The Chancellor frowned, “Have you considered that perhaps the so-called envoy was deliberately planted? You neither saw nor heard it yourself—why trust Wei Shixing’s words so readily? Is it because they align with what you wish to hear?”

The Chancellor’s rage surged like a mountain. Fu Wei felt dazed—she hadn’t seen him like this in years. Had she truly lost her mind, making misguided decisions? Doubts crept in. He was right—her eagerness to save Shangguan Zhao had blinded her. She believed anything favorable to him, regardless of truth, driven by her desperate need to strengthen her support base and her unwavering trust in A’zhao’s loyalty. But this Chancellor—aloof and unyielding—even her attempts to please him had failed. Should she rely on her old friend instead?

“Father Chancellor need not worry. In my heart, you and he are different—I know who is closer.”

The Chancellor sneered, “Then why forget the sage teaching: ‘Believe one-sided accounts, and you’ll be misled; listen widely, and you’ll see clearly.’ Your Majesty is bewitched, refusing all advice—even mine when I seek your counsel.”

Fu Wei stared blankly. Today’s Chancellor carried too much personal emotion, unlike his usual self. His words implied he saw himself as closer than Shangguan Zhao—a rare admission. After pondering, she concluded, “Is Father Chancellor sulking?”

Sure enough, the Chancellor looked stunned. Finding it uninteresting, she waved dismissively, “One is my mentor, the other my confidant. Whose side should I take? Don’t put me in a difficult position, Father Chancellor. I follow evidence, not sentiment. Over a hundred lives in the Shangguan family aren’t trivial—show mercy where possible.”

With her hands clasped behind her back, she strolled out onto the vast courtyard and exhaled deeply. The weather seemed to cool gradually; summer was waning, and cicadas grew fewer. She turned her head to look at him, “Father Chancellor?”

He was somewhat dazed, absentmindedly humming in response.

“On the way here, did you not feel the heat? I remember you always feared the heat.”

He hummed again, but he hadn’t even heard what she said.

Fu Wei smiled serenely at the sky. “What about our last bet? I remember it clearly.”

The Chancellor’s spirit finally returned, but after much thought, he couldn’t recall any bet with her and only looked at her in confusion. “What does Your Majesty refer to?”

She exclaimed in surprise, “Father Chancellor has indeed grown forgetful with age!”

The Chancellor was very sensitive about mentions of his age. Everyone had vulnerabilities they didn’t want mocked—just as she disliked him calling her ugly, he disliked being called old.

He adopted the stern demeanor of an elder. “Showing compassion for the aged and poor is a virtue. Is Your Majesty mocking this old minister for his age?”

Fu Wei immediately wilted under his rebuke. “Father Chancellor, don’t keep calling yourself an old minister—you’re not that old. I just wanted to remind you of what we agreed upon: if you lost a game of chess, you’d come to the palace to accompany me. Have you forgotten? Although the position of empress is already filled, I can still grant you the title of a consort. Which palace do you prefer? Consorts in our dynasty are named after their palaces. What do you think of becoming Lady Zhangtai? Or Lady Hande? If neither suits, there’s also Lady Jinma, Lady Yingchun, or Lady Hefan.”

After saying this, she actually chuckled at him. The Chancellor suddenly felt dizzy and quickly reached out to steady himself against the wall to avoid falling.

Fu Wei thought she might have shocked him too much. Though he was usually eloquent, he was no match for her unconventional teasing.

She went to support him, ordering someone to bring over a folding chair and gently pressing him to sit down. She smoothed his chest twice and spoke softly, “Are you feeling better, Father Chancellor? If none of those names appeal to you, we can discuss further. Actually, simply calling you Lady Yan sounds nice, doesn’t it? Or perhaps you don’t want to be a consort but wish to be empress instead? Anyway, I’ve already made arrangements with Lingjun. If you agree, I’ll settle him elsewhere and prioritize you.”

She squatted beside him, tilting her head to observe his expression. Only two feet separated them, and she could clearly see his translucent white skin and long, thick eyelashes.

This uncle—she had liked him for many years. When exactly? Perhaps it was the first time he removed his mask! She had no resistance to beautiful things, but she knew how to assess situations. When she lacked power, she admired from afar; once strong enough, she sought to claim him as her own. Whether it was love or not, she didn’t know. She just wanted to collect him. Collections weren’t merely objects—they reflected the collector’s status. Some collected the world’s finest pearls, others the most exquisite jade. She collected the greatest person, leaving others far behind.

The Chancellor gazed at her sorrowfully. “What part of me does Your Majesty like? Can I change it now?”

She stood up, smiling faintly. “I admire your commanding presence when directing officials and your ambition in making decisions from afar. Can you change these? Would you still be you if you did?” She shook her head despondently. “Is it so difficult to submit to me? Or is it because you’ve loved someone else? Do you not regret missing your chance with Princess Chaisang? It was Yuanhan then, and now it’s me. If given another chance, would your life end up riddled with regrets?”

The Chancellor’s face turned pale as he abruptly stood up. “Your Majesty and I are merely sovereign and subject. Please do not mix official duties with personal feelings.”

“So, Father Chancellor remains obstinate?” Her smile finally faded, turning into icy determination in her eyes. “If that’s the case, let’s test it. Let’s see who ends up torn apart—me or Father Chancellor.”

What kind of girl was this, resorting to conflict when love wasn’t reciprocated? Was this love or just childish jest? Yet, when she mentioned Princess Chaisang, the Chancellor felt short of breath. This long-buried past had been unearthed, causing him both sorrow and anger.

“Where did Your Majesty hear about this?”

Fu Wei remained silent, unwilling to betray Lian Zheng. If the Chancellor found out, who knew what he might do—perhaps gallop straight to Tianshui and strangle him. She still had use for him.

“Father Chancellor need not know. Just tell me if my investigation is correct. There’s no wall without cracks. If you ask for sources, there are plenty. Can Father Chancellor silence everyone in the world?” She glanced at him sideways, her dark robe contrasting with the vermilion-lacquered window, her face cold and unyielding.

Romantic entanglements were too burdensome, especially while the imperial crown rested on her head. If someday she ceased to be emperor, she could secretly hide in his residence, sulking and throwing tantrums when unhappy. But in this palace, that day would never come.

The investigation of the Wuling case continued in the Chief Justice’s prison. The officials presiding remained unchanged, with both the Chief Justice’s subordinates and the Chancellor present. However, the lead interrogator had shifted from the Chief Justice to Wei Shixing.

Fu Wei did not appear in person. Her carriage waited by the main road outside, watching the prison wagons depart to retrieve prisoners, while elite guards from Yunyang escorted the key suspect into the Chief Justice’s prison. This time, there should be no mistakes. She leaned against the carriage door, peering out anxiously and murmured to Bu Hai, “Will Lord Shangguan be released today?”

Bu Hai assured her confidently, “Our men have already gone to investigate. As soon as there’s news, they will report back to Your Majesty.”

The wait was excruciating. She craned her neck for a long time, from sunrise to sunset, almost losing patience. Suddenly, she saw someone rushing out from the desolate gates of the Chief Justice’s prison. She hurriedly alighted to look, and Jianye approached, whispering excitedly, “They’re out… They’re out… The entire Shangguan family has been pardoned of all charges. I’ve informed Lord Shangguan—he’s coming here to pay respects to Your Majesty.”

Fu Wei felt a surge of excitement. She hadn’t seen Shangguan Zhao for over five years. He was four years older than her and should now be of age. She wondered how much taller he had grown and whether his features remained the same. She rubbed her hands nervously, tiptoeing, more anxious than during her first court appearance.

Someone approached. The figure in the setting sun was no longer as she remembered—much taller and sturdier. If they met in the market, she might not recognize him. She rushed forward a few steps. “A’zhao…”

His steps were hurried, his gaze already meeting hers. About ten paces away, he suddenly stopped, straightened his tattered robe, and knelt before her. “Your servant Zhao, former Wing Guard General, respectfully greets Emperor Your Majesty, risking death to do so.”

She quickly supported his arms, saying, “No need for formalities, rise quickly…”

Their bond ran deep, like siblings, greeting each other in a manly fashion. They slapped palms and forcefully bumped shoulders. In the sunset, their smiles reverted to those of years past. Fu Wei examined him carefully, her nose tingling with emotion. Leaning forward, she embraced him briefly. “I’ve come too late. You’ve suffered.”

From afar, the Chancellor standing behind the halberd rack watched the two figures merge into one. Somehow, he couldn’t suppress a mocking smile.

She had probably forgotten—her stature was no longer suitable for close proximity with men. Now, she was determined to rescue Shangguan Zhao. If someone were to seize this as leverage, the first person she’d likely eliminate would be him.