PM - 44

The curtains under the red pillars were either rolled up or let down, creating an irregular pattern of heights. The faint winter sunlight filtered through the windows, not very strong, revealing only the gentle floating of dust particles in the air, ready to drift far away with a single breath.

It was cold, and inside the room, a gold-inlaid warming stove sat near the center of the floor. Sitting too close to it, the young emperor’s cheek on one side was flushed from the heat while kneeling on the mat in front of the bed. Her eyes were bright as she gazed at the Chancellor—her uncle, her mentor—feeling a warm flutter in her heart.

“As for the Dao… it is subtle and pure, yet no one truly understands its essence… Sometimes I wonder if you and I are fated. Look how perceptive Emperor Wen was when he chose names that fit us so well! Initially, I merely hoped you would become a trusted advisor to the crown prince, but after many twists and turns, here you are by my side… The affairs of the mortal world are truly unpredictable, wouldn’t you agree?”

The Chancellor’s eyes were half-closed, though he was feverish and weak, he still heard her words.

He wasn’t sure if this entanglement counted as fate for her, but for himself, it might just be a karmic burden—one he couldn’t escape, burning fiercely, destined to accompany him for life.

Strange… who had fallen in love first? Was it her or him? He had always restrained himself, never harboring any inappropriate thoughts, but because of her persistence, many things had subtly changed beyond his control. His mind had become unusually active—not about politics—but courageously unstoppable. He no longer cared solely about his own gains and losses; now, he had to consider others, something unimaginable in the past.

Why did it have to be now, just as she was about to take full control of governance? He wasn’t unaware of her plans. If he lost his footing, everything would revolve around her, bending to her will. After being used up, what would remain of him? With a bitter chuckle, he thought of how cold and calculating she was—using him to the fullest when he was head over heels, then discarding him like an old shoe once she was done. Perhaps in the blink of an eye, Lingjun, who was about her age, would already be happily married to her… After all, they had consummated their marriage last night. Would she love a youth, or someone nearing thirty like him? She wasn’t foolish!

Binding himself in a cocoon, ruining a lifetime of reputation, ending up in disgrace—wouldn’t that make others laugh until their teeth fell out? He simply resented why she had come into his life. Things were fine when she stayed away, but now that she was here, everything was chaotic, leaving him unable to cope.

Fu Wei didn’t know what he was thinking. All she saw was the mocking smile at the corner of his lips. She understood that her actions were still a joke to him.

Suddenly feeling a bit resentful, the hand resting on the edge of the bed slowly clenched under her wide sleeve. She looked at him hesitantly, “Are you feeling better now?”

No, he closed his eyes and took a deep breath, “Your Majesty should return to the palace. I didn’t sleep at all last night and am very tired.”

Sometimes his words gave her vague hope. Not sleeping all night and drinking alcohol surely meant he couldn’t be completely indifferent towards her.

“You haven’t taken your medicine for today yet. The maids are already preparing it. Let me take care of you before I leave.”

He was startled. After all, she was the emperor. Being served by her would surely shorten his lifespan. He dared not accept, “I am extremely fearful, Your Majesty. Please honor us with your departure. While I am sick, it’s inconvenient to attend to you. Your lingering presence makes me uneasy.”

She puffed her cheeks angrily, “When I become your wife in the future, won’t you even let me stay by your side?”

He froze. This was the first time she’d said she wanted to be his wife. Previously, she often mentioned titles like Consort Yan or Lady Yan, which only embarrassed him. It turned out he couldn’t resist tenderness. Changing tactics, she knew it was impossible, yet his heart still trembled.

Children’s love and hate disregard your survival. He struggled to breathe, “You should go back. These two days in the capital, there are too many prying eyes on the palace and the chancellor’s residence… Staying here too long isn’t good for you. Today is the second day of Your Majesty’s wedding; you should be with the Empress…”

“Are you very bothered, afraid that I spent the night with Lingjun?” she suddenly asked him. Seeing his gaze flicker, she knew he was insincere. Leaning by his pillow, she smiled, “I originally didn’t plan to tell you. It’s fun to tease you since you don’t obey me! But now I’ve changed my mind. Lingjun and I didn’t do anything, we’re clear and innocent… Such matters should be shared with someone you love.” She squeezed his hand, “When you’re fully recovered, if… we can find a time to quietly leave the capital for a couple of days, just the two of us, okay?”

He laughed at her wild imagination, “If both the emperor and the prime minister aren’t in court, chaos will ensue.” But hearing her say she hadn’t consummated with Lingjun stirred mixed emotions within him—joy and sorrow intertwined, hard to distinguish. Struggling to control his feelings, he calmly said, “Regardless of whether the records are true or false, I’ll still say this: please protect yourself, Your Majesty.”

She spoke lightly, “Isn’t it because of you? You’ve protected me for over a decade. For the next twenty, thirty years, you’ll still be here. I don’t need to worry about myself.”

Hearing this, he turned to look at her, his gaze fixed, “Has Your Majesty ever truly trusted me? Without any doubt, have you ever wanted to entrust yourself to me?”

His words surprised her, prompting her to seriously consider whether she had ever thought about it. The answer was no.

She had always remembered her father’s words: emperors are the loneliest people in the world because their immense power renders human relationships as thin as paper in their eyes. They have no friends, no truly close confidants. Because when you treat others sincerely, they may not reciprocate. Even those sharing your bed may seek personal gain, and your own sons may murder you for the throne. Where does genuine affection exist in this world? All you can do is continuously strengthen yourself, making them fear and avoid you, thus ensuring your lifelong safety.

She had never questioned whether these views were right or wrong. Trusting others might lead to disappointment, after all, the most reliable person is always oneself…

Looking at him, she pulled his hand over and pressed it against her forehead, “I haven’t succeeded. I harbor suspicions towards everyone, including you. But I can learn, learn to trust you.”

He forced a bitter smile, “If trust needs deliberate effort, then it cannot be called trust. Besides, I don’t think I’ve done anything particularly trustworthy either. The fault lies with me, not with Your Majesty.”

This topic was becoming too heavy. Trust isn’t built in a day, and even without trust, it doesn’t stop her admiration for him. She carefully observed him—his fever hadn’t subsided, and bloodshot veins appeared in his eyes. Feeling a pang of pity, she gently said, “Close your eyes and rest well. I’ll send for the Imperial Physician to examine you.”

As she moved to rise, her sleeve was tugged by him. He said, “It’s just a chill, no need to bother the Imperial Physician.”

“But what if the fever doesn’t subside and you lose your mind?” she fretted, “There are so many major decisions pending your wisdom. Without you, I can’t handle them alone.”

She was not one to admit defeat, but imagining losing him, she realized her current abilities were insufficient to manage military and state affairs and deal with civil and military officials. Seeing her unease, his heart gradually eased, “Prescriptions keep changing, perhaps another dose will help.”

At that moment, footsteps sounded at the door. Fu Wei heard the voice of the Attendant calling softly, “Your Majesty, the Chancellor’s medicine has arrived.”

She lifted her robe and descended the wooden steps barefoot, personally going to the door to receive it. Coming from her background, she had never taken care of anyone. She didn’t even know she should carry the lacquered tray along, so she rolled up her sleeves and directly picked up the bowl.

Freshly brewed medicine, even through the bowl, was scalding hot. Only halfway did she feel the burning pain in her palm, but she couldn’t let go, gritting her teeth and persevering until she reached his bedside.

After placing it down, she sucked in cold air, muttering, “So hot, it’s burning me…” She bent down to blow on the medicine bowl, “Be careful, it might burn your mouth. Let it cool a bit before drinking.”

Her curled hands rested on her knees, the vivid redness of her palms contrasting sharply with the whiteness above her wrists—it was quite a burn. The Chancellor propped himself up, pulling her sleeve to inspect, frowning as he scolded, “Why didn’t you drop it?”

She replied in a wronged tone, “That medicine is for your treatment. If I dropped it, what would you drink? I’m fine, it’ll get better with some ointment later.”

He sighed heavily, unsure what to do. This was driving him to despair! Her fragile hands lay flat in his, needing care and protection. He didn’t know what he had been thinking before—oppressing her, competing with her for power ruthlessly. Now he vaguely regretted it. This wasn’t a good start, he knew it well.

“I’ll have someone bring burn ointment,” he said as he prepared to rise.

She held him back, saying it didn’t hurt, then warmly smiled, tiptoeing to hug his neck, “Let’s leave it at that… Do you know how happy I am?” She pressed close to him, her voice thick with emotion, “Ruchun, without telling anyone else, let’s start from today onwards, okay? Say yes quickly. If you refuse this time, I’ll never entertain such thoughts again. Master and servant forever, no intersection.”

After a long struggle, he raised his lowered hand, gently covering her back, “This subject… and the late emperor were brothers.”

Her heart secretly blossomed, “You are not of Emperor Wen’s bloodline, only bearing the title in name.”

He found it difficult, “But Emperor Wen favored me, and my name is recorded in the jade annals.”

She felt the weight of it, neither light nor heavy, resting on her back. She almost burst into tears, feeling like she had finally seen a ray of light after wandering alone in the dark for thousands of years—a feeling of contentment even in death. At this moment, she said, “So what? If you don’t like it, I’ll order it removed.”

He still shook his head, “Let’s leave it as it is, no need to cause another uproar.” Lowering his gaze to her, her features were picturesque. From afar on the throne, he had never noticed how beautiful these eyes were!

“Ruchun…” Like a child, she lightly bounced, “Pinch me, see if I’m dreaming.”

He didn’t know if this was a dream, dizzy and weak all over, yet she was vividly present in his arms. The emperor’s ceremonial robes were cold, seeping through his thin undergarments into his skin and bones, but he didn’t feel cold. There was a fire in his heart, his soul finally having a home to return to.

Loving each other at the risk of life was terrifying yet thrilling. His gaze softened, enveloping her entirely, “Don’t be silly.”

She bounced again, “Then kiss me. Only then does it count.”

His heart thundered. Even if the future was bleak, he had to throw caution to the wind. Tightening his arms, he leaned down to kiss her, their lips trembling slightly, just like hers. This child he had held in swaddling clothes… so unbelievable. He sighed, “I hope there will be no regrets in the future. When I’m old and useless, I hope there’s still a place for me by your side.”

Not pessimistic, because real issues always exist and can’t be avoided. The hand she placed on his shoulder tightened slightly, “My beloved teacher is my lifelong desire. Maybe my existence is to match you.”

He chuckled. This child could speak volumes of sweet nothings—he was enchanted by her. Hopefully, the decision made during illness wouldn’t be wrong, and he wouldn’t regret it upon waking. He still clearly remembered the excruciating pain of last night. What she described as piercing the heart with ten thousand arrows was indeed real.

Since childhood, Fu Wei had always yearned for things. If she didn’t get them, she would remember them day and night. Now this person finally belonged to her. She felt her heart was full, and nothing would scare her anymore. After indulging in affection for a while, she remembered he was still sick, and the room was cool. Returning to worsen his condition would not be good.

“Lie down quickly,” she rubbed his back several times, “Ah, I forgot in my excitement.” She hurriedly helped him lie back, knee-walking to fetch a cushion for him to lean on, blowing on the medicine bowl repeatedly, “Drink it slowly. I’ll fetch some honey water.”

Young and brimming with inexhaustible energy, she joyfully ran across the floor, her feet making slapping sounds. Reaching the door, she called out to Hulü, “Ziqing… Ziqing…”

Hulü, standing guard below the steps, heard the summons and quickly ascended, pressing his sword, “Your orders.”

“Have the steward bring honey water.”

After speaking, she returned to the inner chamber. Hulü Puzhao stood there in a daze. How long had it been since the young emperor had smiled so happily? Her mouth craving honey water, her face seemed to be soaked in sweetness, causing those on duty in the imperial presence to feel uneasy, wondering what had happened to the young emperor today. With the Chancellor gravely ill, her joy seemed to invite gossip.

The eunuch went out to relay the order, and the steward soon prepared, bringing a bamboo basket and flatbread, “Lord hasn’t eaten lunch yet. If he can eat something, it would be better.”

The eunuch bowed low, carrying the lacquered tray high with both hands, entering humbly. Out of the corner of his eye, he could glimpse the scene inside the bedroom—the Chancellor leaning against the head of the bed, and the young emperor sitting sideways on the mat. The sovereign of the nation lacked the usual domineering demeanor, making the eunuch’s heart race. Such a homely emperor was indeed rare.

Fu Wei waved her sleeve to dismiss the attendants, personally pouring honey water for him. Seeing that he had taken his medicine, she straightened up and handed him the lacquered cup, “This is how my tutor used to serve me medicine. A sip of honey water takes away the bitterness.”

He found it amusing—someone who had weathered storms all his life had never sought comfort after taking medicine. She, however, possessed a girl’s sensibilities. Regardless of how she governed or wielded power, behind closed doors, she displayed the delicate tenderness inherent in a young woman.

“Does it taste good?” she blinked her eyes, seeing his weary nod. Quickly removing the cushion, she let him lie down, “Are you cold? Shall I bring a hot water bottle?”

It was her first time taking care of someone, her enthusiasm overwhelming. The Chancellor managed a weak smile, “I’m not cold, Your Majesty doesn’t need to fuss. I’m thinking about what Lord Chang will do after the incident.”

She hummed in acknowledgment, falling silent with furrowed brows, “That’s why I must wait until the carriage enters Jing Wang’s territory before acting. Last time, you ordered Huo Ding and Sima Qicheng to thoroughly investigate the military system of Jing State. The report submitted to the office found no problems. But I know Jing Wang has been scheming for years. There must be traces. Dealing with him officially would be too complicated. It’s better to direct the trouble towards him, let Ge Hou fight him. At worst, the court can mediate. If successful, it ends there. If not, the military power of Jing-Chu and Shuofang can be reclaimed, allowing the court to achieve victory without bloodshed.”

When discussing politics, her expression became cold and focused. One could hardly sense she was a fifteen-year-old girl. Perhaps feeling reserved in front of someone she liked, she shyly smiled at him, “Are you going to say I’m scheming again? Transferring blame, borrowing a knife to kill—am I really a kind-hearted person?”

He slowly shook his head, “In our positions, if we don’t have a ruthless heart, the blade will soon be at our own necks. Governing the world with benevolence and filial piety is a topic for discussion only when the vassal states are submissive and there are no dissenting voices in court. Since the reign of Emperor Xiaozong, vassal lords have divided territories and ruled independently. Although improved somewhat during Emperor Wen’s period, the problem persists. Without eliminating these hidden dangers, I cannot sleep or eat in peace.”

Listening to him, she leaned closer, blinking her eyes, “Is it because of me that you can’t sleep or eat?”

An obvious question! He glanced at her, “What do you think?”

She proudly declared, “We, master and servant, are one. Others might draw boundaries, but not us. If I fail, Ruchun fails. If I die, Ruchun dies, correct?”

He finally nodded, “Yes, it was true before, and it will be even more so in the future.”

She was delighted, rubbing against his shoulder, “Now I’m not afraid of anything, truly. I have you—Uncle, Teacher, Mentor…” Chuckling teasingly, watching him blush awkwardly, she found even more joy.

“You must recover quickly. Try to attend tomorrow’s grand banquet if possible… They’re all nobles holding military power, and I’m a bit intimidated.”

He groggily hummed in response but couldn’t help considering whether he should attend that family banquet. Having controlled the government for ten years, he had made too many enemies. Those high-ranking members of the Yuan clan were already dissatisfied with him. This time, someone might use drunkenness as cover to force him to publicly announce stepping down from power. Declaring retirement would mean handing over all his authority. He wasn’t afraid of anything else, but he feared she was not yet mature enough to handle the reins of power. Once opportunists emerged, they would exploit her youth and encourage reckless actions. If she didn’t heed his advice, the hard-earned peace and prosperity would crumble in no time.

He looked at her with melancholy. Her eyes sparkled with hopeful light, still eagerly desiring power. Youthful ambition, singularly focused on ruling the world, didn’t truly understand how much effort it took to run this country. According to his current thoughts, he wasn’t afraid to step down, nurture her, and return the splendid realm to her, even if it meant sacrificing himself. However, even if she tolerated him, stripped of power and influence, reduced to an empty title of Chancellor, would his former political enemies spare him? No need to speculate—he already knew the answer.

To survive, he would inevitably go against her expectations. That was the tragedy of this relationship.

“The military forces around the capital have already been arranged by me before the grand wedding. The security of the palace is jointly managed by the Palace Guard and the Commander of the Imperial Guards. Even if I don’t attend, Your Majesty need not be afraid. Among the ministers, many are from noble families—Grand Marshal, Grand Coachman, Minister of the Imperial Clan… These people will assist Your Majesty when the time comes.”

She remained silent, looking at him sadly. He felt compassion and had to change his words, “I understand. If I can get out of bed, I will definitely go.”

Seeing him like this, Fu Wei felt guilty herself. She couldn’t help but scheme, talking about loving him while figuring out how to strip him of his power. Thinking about it, she realized it was somewhat unscrupulous.

She sighed softly, “Forget it. Seeing how ill you are, it’s better not to go. Recovery is more important. I have tutors like Tai Fu supporting me; you don’t need to worry about me. If you’re unwell and can’t handle them, I’ll be worried.” She caressed his face, “I understand your heart and won’t blame you. Stay at home and recuperate. Just one thing—don’t let that Wei woman near you, understood?”

He was helpless, “Understood, to save you the trouble, bringing her into the palace would require a title.”

She grinned, poking his nose, “Teachable disciple…”

Before she finished speaking, they heard Hulü Puzhao announce at the door that Prince Jing had entered the palace to pay respects to His Majesty.

Prince Jing Yuanbiao? She stood up. If she remembered correctly, Yuanbiao’s son was once a prime candidate chosen by the wicked minister to replace her. This was certainly worth meeting.

She raised her voice to instruct the Attendant to prepare, put on her shoes, and then turned back to kiss him, “Take good care of yourself. I’ll come visit after finishing my business.” Then, under his watchful eyes, she left reluctantly, looking back multiple times.