PM - 35

It was unbearable to watch! The Chancellor frowned deeply. When would the young emperor’s habit of holding hands with everyone be cured? Even as a man, the Son of Heaven should maintain an aura that matched his high position. Holding hands and slinging arms over shoulders at the slightest disagreement—what kind of behavior was that? Moreover, she knew she was a woman. Shouldn’t a woman be more self-respecting? Growing up together didn’t change the fact that men and women were different. Her ignorance of this basic principle was truly hopeless! Recalling her touching him with those wandering hands made him feel nauseous all over.

Was being arranged to marry a much younger wife really worth such relentless comfort? The Chancellor thought darkly. Shangguan Zhao even pretended to look reluctant—it was quite the performance! He probably wanted to express loyalty to the young emperor. What did he mean by “shattering his body”? Let’s see him do it! It was all flattery. Who cared whether the bride was twelve or twenty when getting married and promoted simultaneously!

The Chancellor felt indignant and disdainful towards the young emperor’s excessive favoritism. Suddenly, a buzzing sound filled his mind—Lady Gai was only twelve years old, and he had overlooked such an important matter! A twelve-year-old bride wouldn’t even know how to make vinegar, let alone properly manage Shangguan Zhao. Thus, this little sovereign’s marriage would have no impact on Shangguan Zhao—he could still freely enter the palace, even the young emperor’s sleeping quarters.

The Chancellor realized he had done something very foolish: helping Shangguan Zhao secure the title of Marquis Within-the-Pass. No wonder the young emperor’s attitude had suddenly shifted; she must be laughing her head off internally. The supposedly infallible Chancellor was, in fact, just mediocre, wasn’t he?

He abruptly turned around, and the smiles on their faces stung his eyes. The Chancellor was filled with regret for falling into the trap of a naive youngster, which he found difficult to accept.

The young emperor probably sensed something and said, “Azhao, today’s success is thanks to Father Chancellor. None of the ministers in the hall agreed earlier, and I thought the matter would be impossible. I was about to give up when Father Chancellor intervened and pulled me out of the predicament. I am deeply grateful to Father Chancellor. Having such a minister is my blessing. You should thank Father Chancellor too. Without him, your title might not have been secured.”

Although this Chancellor always harbored hostility towards him, and his previous covert attack nearly cost him his life, maintaining appearances before completely breaking ties was still necessary.

Shangguan Zhao bowed respectfully to the Chancellor, “Thank you, Lord Chancellor.”

The Chancellor sidestepped, not accepting the bow, responding nonchalantly, though inwardly he was filled with regret. “Attendant Shangguan, no need to be polite. My assistance today was because I agreed with His Majesty’s decision, not due to your merit. Now that the title is secured, I must advise you: when His Majesty arranges your marriage, please treat Lady Gai well. Marriage is a bond bestowed by heaven. Please cherish it and don’t harbor second thoughts because of her youth. This is the least virtue a husband should have.”

Shangguan Zhao was momentarily stunned, seemingly struck a sore spot, his face slowly turning red.

The young emperor noticed the sarcasm in the Chancellor’s words and hurriedly smoothed things over, waving his sleeves and saying to Shangguan Zhao, “When you get married, I will surely give a generous gift. Tell me what you want then.”

What he wanted might just be her. The Chancellor thought grimly. The emperor was too young. Shangguan Zhao’s submissive behavior likely stemmed from more than mere obedience to the emperor. The Chancellor discerned more from his gaze—yearning, attachment, and deep admiration. How strange. Was he aware of the young emperor’s identity? Or did he harbor improper intentions towards the young emperor regardless of gender?

The former conjecture seemed unlikely. Given Fu Wei’s temperament, anyone who discovered her secret, whether kin or friend, would be eliminated without hesitation. Therefore, the latter possibility was more plausible. The self-proclaimed master of seduction was oblivious to the burgeoning feelings around her.

The Chancellor looked at her with pity. She was still grinning foolishly. In front of friends, she didn’t need to pretend, but in front of him, she was always tense, ready to pounce. He sneered slightly and turned his head, “After Attendant Shangguan is promoted, there is no need to continue serving in the palace.”

Both the young emperor and Shangguan Zhao were startled.

“Even with the new title, he remains my attendant, just like Commander Hulü. Whatever he did before, he will continue to do.”

The Chancellor raised an eyebrow, “Still guarding Your Majesty?”

The word “guarding” was inelegant. Close attendants accompanied the emperor everywhere, and their duties were far from merely “guarding.” Of course, Shangguan Zhao understood. The Chancellor had visited the Eastern Palace twice, and both times he was on duty at the three-tiered gate. If he called himself a guard, he couldn’t deny it.

He didn’t care what the Chancellor called him, simply stating calmly, “Zhao has the responsibility to protect the master. Even if it’s guarding, I do it willingly.”

Alright, willing to endure. The Chancellor had nothing to say. He couldn’t bear to watch them flirt anymore. Bowing solemnly, he said, “If Your Majesty has no other orders, I shall take my leave.”

Fu Wei nodded lightly, “Father Chancellor, please return. Once the edict is drafted, I will send someone to show it to you for review.”

“Yes.” The Chancellor, with a cold face, backed away, exiting the emperor’s sleeping quarters.

Descending the steps one by one was troublesome—the steep slope made solitary walking feel desolate. The Chancellor chose the corridor path. Although there were guards every ten steps, and many eyes watching, at least he didn’t have to worry about his footing and could take a moment to enjoy the scenery of the Eastern Palace.

The autumn sky was clear, and a coolness filled the air. The Chancellor slightly turned his head to look outside the corridor. The sunlight was gentle, no longer as fierce as in summer. He preferred this season—it brought calm and ease. October was approaching. It would be a busy month—preparing for the emperor’s wedding, organizing the winter solstice sacrifice to heaven, and soon the ancestral worship of the Yuan clan. Each task required considerable effort, and the thought of it made him feel weary.

He was indeed getting older, finding many tasks increasingly strenuous. Lately, he often felt inexplicably disheartened. Perhaps he should consider starting a family. He shouldn’t let fear of the young emperor’s manipulation lead to having no descendants.

The Chancellor continued forward, his sleeves swaying gently. After walking a while, he faintly heard a distant call of “Father Chancellor.” He paused briefly, restraining himself from turning around. Probably a mistake—he thought. She should be discussing the marriage arrangements with Shangguan Zhao now.

He walked further, and the call became clearer. This time, he stopped. Seeing the guards standing solemnly with lowered heads beside him, he realized he hadn’t misheard.

The Chancellor turned around to see the young emperor walking towards him from the other end of the corridor. The black robe with white soles and red edges always gave off a sense of distant unfamiliarity. He parted his lips, “Your Majesty has more orders?”

She didn’t stop beside him, “I’ll see Father Chancellor off. I have nothing else to do today, and staying cooped up in the palace is unbearable.”

Lord and vassal walked slowly side by side. The short corridor was soon at its end. Before entering the three-tiered gate, the Chancellor stopped, “Please, Your Majesty, stay here.”

She tugged at the corner of her lips, “Let me see you off a bit further.”

Silent affection couldn’t be expressed, mutual harm never ceased, yet after anger came feelings they couldn’t avoid. Fu Wei thought helplessly; she had the temperament of forgetting pain once the wound healed. Her long-held composure crumbled upon seeing him after washing his hair, stirring feelings she couldn’t suppress. He was much older, taller, and controlled most of her imperial power. Logically, she should hate and fear him, so why did she always want to cherish him? She asked herself but found no answer. Perhaps love sprang from hate? Anyway, like most emperors, once she liked something, she became obsessed with possessing it. Regardless of his high status and power, once she set her sights on him, even if she couldn’t have him, she wouldn’t easily let others have him.

She bit her lip, squinting to examine him. The Chancellor hesitated, afraid she would devour him whole. She smiled again, “What? Can’t bear the honor of a king’s escort?”

An obvious taunt, but the Chancellor took a step forward, “My carriage is at Canglong Gate, quite far from here. Does Your Majesty still wish to escort me?”

She hummed in agreement, “Seeing Father Chancellor home is also acceptable.”

The three-tiered gate represented the highest level of palace architecture, a symbol of supreme authority. Together with the gate towers and wing buildings, it formed the grand entrance to the palace. Walking underneath it evoked a sense of insignificance. The gateway was deep, spanning about twenty zhang front to back. Looking from one end to the other, the dazzling light and shadow made the palace guards responsible for security resemble the dolls she used to play with as a child—armored and helmeted, standing rigidly without any other movement possible.

She walked ahead, and the Chancellor maintained a moderate distance behind her. She didn’t mind, leisurely pacing with her hands behind her back. Midway, she stopped and waited for him, arms tucked.

Seeing no way to avoid it, the Chancellor had no choice but to approach. They stood facing each other, unable to find a topic, silently standing there.

“Father Chancellor, don’t you have anything to say to me?” After a long silence, she finally spoke, “Is there nothing you wish to explain?”

The Chancellor thought for a moment and shook his head.

She turned her face with a disdainful smile, “When I previously asked if you wanted to start a family, what did you think? Did you also entertain the idea? I advise Father Chancellor, it’s better to give up. You know I won’t let you marry. If you dare to take another wife, I will kill her. Don’t believe me? Go ahead and try.”

The Chancellor didn’t expect her to say such words and was greatly displeased, “Your Majesty, please choose your words carefully...”

“Carefully choose what words? Didn’t the ancients teach future generations to follow their hearts? I am adhering to the teachings of the sages. Does Father Chancellor find this inappropriate?” Her phoenix eyes slightly shifted, gracefully scanning his face, “I hesitated for a long time, struggled within my heart. Today, I still intend to have an open and honest talk with you. About my undergarment—when you revealed it in front of everyone, it made me very embarrassed. Although the courtiers did not know that the belly band was mine, heaven knows, earth knows, you know, and I know. What Father Chancellor did felt like a slap in my face, causing me immense suffering. I treated you sincerely, yet you humiliated me. This is very wrong. After much deliberation, considering it is your first offense, I will forgive you this once. But this must never happen again, do you understand?”

The Chancellor was left dumbfounded by her words. What a magnanimous heart she had! After getting angry, she consoled herself, and just like that, the matter was over. Truly childlike behavior.

The corners of the Chancellor’s mouth twitched, “Who needs your forgiveness? Even if Your Majesty hates me to death, I have no complaints.”

“Why go through all this? Do you want my love or are you trying to make me hate you? I am the emperor, and eventually, I will hold power. Maintaining a good relationship with me will be beneficial to you in every way.” She took a step forward, forcing him against the wall, “When I was heartbroken, did you feel any sorrow? Not to mention that I grew up under your care, even as a relative’s child, shouldn’t you have some compassion? Have you seen the Grand Tutor? He truly protects me everywhere. But you? Unless you push me into a corner, it doesn’t seem like you possess the talent for governing the state.”

So now, who exactly is making whom have no way out? With one hand braced against the wall beside him, he couldn’t even move. The brick walls inside the gate were cold; leaning against them, the chill seeped straight into his heart and lungs. The Chancellor couldn’t help but frown, whispering lowly, “People come and go here, Your Majesty, please don’t do this.”

Don’t do what? Fu Wei paid no heed, “Hasn’t the rumor already spread that I am infatuated with Father Chancellor? I don’t take it seriously. Could it be that Father Chancellor cares so much?”

Although the young emperor was tall, her physical presence wasn’t enough to intimidate the Chancellor. However, given her status, he refrained from pushing her away due to respect for hierarchy.

The Chancellor kept glancing around, fearing that the guards might notice his absence and rush in with the imperial army. He wanted to advise the young emperor to restrain herself but dared not raise his voice, only managing to whisper, “Since there are rumors, we should distance ourselves. Lingering here, if someone finds out, wouldn’t it become even more uncontrollable?”

She sneered, “Father Chancellor is too cautious. Even if something were true in this palace, no one would dare to spread it. What are you afraid of?” After saying this, she glanced at him, leaned close to his collar, and sniffed, “Hmm, zero-sum incense...” Slowly moving upwards, stopping at his temples, she deeply inhaled next to his face, “Orchid grass and storax... Father Chancellor takes great care when washing his hair, even more than me.”

The Chancellor awkwardly swallowed, “Your Majesty, why...”

Halfway through his sentence, her finger covered his lips, gently rubbing them. Her cool fingertips carried the scent of sandalwood, the cold fragrance permeating his mind, momentarily confusing him.

“Father Chancellor’s lips are so soft,” she chuckled softly, “Who would have thought that such lips could utter words that pierce the heart?”

Her fingers lightly caressed his lips, her cheek so close that even her breath felt unusually clear. The Chancellor’s heart raced chaotically, almost making him faint. Dealing with her was utterly futile. He had made so many efforts to break free from this torment, yet with just one act of “magnanimity,” everything crumbled.

In his twenty-eight years of life, regardless of how tumultuous his political career was, the Chancellor had never experienced anything like this. He was flustered, unsure how to respond, tightly gripping the jade belt at his waist. The tassels hanging from the buckle trembled slightly, filling him with shame, yet he was powerless. She was like a bone-deep sore, penetrating his flesh and reaching his innards. Somewhere along the line, he had even lost the courage to push her away.

“Is Father Chancellor afraid?” Her breath moved closer, just two inches away, almost touching his lips, “Don’t be afraid. Actually, I am the same as you.”

It seemed half her weight had shifted onto him. Her other hand, unnoticed, had climbed up to rest on his neck. Each inch of her movement and teasing caused goosebumps on his skin. Panicking to the extreme, he closed his eyes helplessly, only to hear her throat emit a beast-like growl, whispering softly in his ear, “If you keep your eyes closed, I will kiss you.”

Where did this child learn so many tricks? The Chancellor felt like a plaything in her palm. His heart, his mind, even his body—there was nothing she couldn’t toy with. Things were going to get out of hand. Suddenly alert, he hastily pushed her away, lowly rebuking, “If Your Majesty continues like this, I will...”

Fu Wei stumbled, taking two steps back, “What a person devoid of romance!” She supported herself on her waist to look at him, “Then what? Resign and return home? Or start a rebellion? I don’t doubt that Father Chancellor has the ability to rally hundreds with one call. You can send letters to the various feudal lords, telling them that I am oppressing you with my tyranny. They are just looking for an excuse to tarnish my reputation. Father Chancellor can provide them with a perfect opportunity. Once they dethrone me, I will go to your residence and serve as your maid, attending to your bedchamber. What do you think, Father Chancellor?”

Sometimes she was utterly shameless. In front of the officials, she maintained her dignity, making everyone believe she was a proper emperor. But behind closed doors, what tricks couldn’t she pull? Dazzling moves that left even the well-experienced Chancellor feeling inadequate.

“Do you insist on pushing me like this?” He finally couldn’t bear it anymore, his voice tinged with despair, “Again and again, how far do you plan to go before you stop? I’ve said it before—we are not suitable for each other. Can’t you understand my words? I am thirteen years older than you. If I had married early, my child would be your age. Are you trying to humiliate me with age? I... I am your uncle!”

Fu Wei watched him stomp his feet in anger, finally bringing up their familial relationship. So he was very sensitive about the age difference. Without this barrier, would he give up resistance?

She stuttered, “I’ve said it before, I don’t mind...”

But he exploded in rage, “I mind that you are young, an inexperienced brat who jokes about everything! If you weren’t the emperor, I would have disciplined you long ago. Look at yourself—do you still have any semblance of a sovereign?”

She cast him a resentful glance, “If Father Chancellor wants to discipline me, then do it. Tonight at midnight, I’ll await your arrival on my bed.”

The Chancellor choked on his breath, rolling his eyes in frustration, pointing at her like a trapped beast, “If you are serious, I’ll put forth all my effort and accompany you till the end! Isn’t this what you want—to seize power, to rule personally? Then I’ll let you seize power, let you rule personally! From tomorrow, I will take a leave of absence for thirty days, not attending court, not listening to or handling any affairs, leaving everything to Your Majesty’s sole discretion. Is this acceptable?”

Was he planning to advance by retreating? She tilted her neck, somewhat disappointed, “I thought your ‘accompanying me till the end’ meant coming to my bed in the middle of the night...”

“Enough!” The Chancellor couldn’t bear to hear anymore, angrily bowing his hands, “The military system outside the pass is currently chaotic. Commander Su Ju is cowardly and has withdrawn from the Jade Gate Pass without authorization. I request permission to go out and inspect the Western Regions Protectorate. Please grant your approval, Your Majesty.”

She clicked her tongue, “Does Father Chancellor plan to exile himself?”

With furrowed brows, she pursed her lips to scrutinize him, remaining silent for a long while without giving a final response. Initially furious, the Chancellor regretted his words after they left his mouth. But upon further reflection, he realized this endless situation needed resolution. He knew she would jump at the chance, and he was prepared. As long as she agreed, he would set off tomorrow, regardless of the turmoil in the court—it would all be irrelevant to him.

He thought she would readily agree, and he saw her nodding in agreement. But her words left him wishing for death: “If Father Chancellor has decided, I naturally won’t force you. But I am soon to marry Lingjun. Lingjun is still young and may not be physically ready. Father Chancellor should leave behind an heir before departing. Wouldn’t that be better?”