The moon cast a pale light, and the night was cool as water. The candle on the table flickered, its flame crackling softly.

“Snap.”

“Alright.” Xiuyuan lowered his fingers and spoke in a low voice.

I pulled down my sleeve, lost in thought for a moment, then murmured hesitantly, “Xiuyuan...” Glancing at him furtively, his calm phoenix eyes appeared even more profound under the dim yellow light. Meeting his gaze, I said earnestly, “Thank you.”

He lightly furrowed his brows. “I told you, there’s no need.”

Pressing my lips together, I steeled myself and took a deep breath. “Actually...” My hard-won courage was abruptly interrupted by a clear, loud call.

“Miss!” Que’er burst into the room, panting heavily. She froze upon seeing me and Xiuyuan, her single-lidded eyes widening as she raised an eyebrow, staring dumbfounded at us.

“What is it?”

Que’er suddenly darted to my side, eyeing Xiuyuan warily. “Miss, General Han is looking for you.”

Xiuyuan stood up directly, his brocade robe accentuating his tall, imposing figure. “Until tomorrow.”

Without thinking, I responded, “Alright.”

He gazed at me intently before turning gracefully, his steps elegant and steady. Watching him walk out the door, he vanished into the moonlight in the blink of an eye.

I rose and walked straight toward the door. Turning back, I glanced at Que’er, who was still frozen in place, a complex expression flickering in her eyes. Frowning slightly, I said softly, “Don’t just stand there. Let’s go.”

“Oh, oh.” She nodded, her eyes clearing.

In the western garden, tall pines stood solemnly, and the plants swayed gently in the breeze, whispering like a soft song.

Entering the quiet chamber, I saw a tall, imposing figure. Gently closing the door behind me, I called softly, “Brother.”

My brother slowly turned around, his expression serious. “Qingqing, did you know beforehand that the Divine Physician was Duke Ding?”

I shook my head. “No.”

“Hmm...” He sighed deeply. “Two days ago, the Divine Physician proposed to me. Though I declined, I held him in high regard. At the time, I thought that once His Majesty’s ambitions were fulfilled and I could act freely, I would arrange for you to marry him. But...” Under the candlelight, my brother’s eyes glimmered with a subdued indigo hue. “Today, I learned he is Duke Ding. Was his proposal sincere or a ruse? A conspiracy or an open strategy? I truly cannot tell.” Before I could explain, he raised his hand, continuing, “Qingqing, one must always remain cautious. Though I am not adept at scheming, I have weathered many storms. The human heart... I am truly afraid of it.” He gazed deeply into my eyes. “Perhaps I am unjustly suspecting an honorable man, but I, Han Yuesha, only have you as my sister. For your sake, I am willing to play the villain.”

“Brother...” I stared at him, speechless.

“Qingqing.” He slowly approached, gently tugging at my braid as he used to when I was young. His deep eyes were filled with sorrow. “Qingqing, do you resent me?”

Furrowing my brows, I replied in astonishment, “Resent? Why would I resent you?”

He came closer, placing his hands on my shoulders, his voice heavy. “There is much, much to resent.” His chiseled features softened slightly. “Back then, I failed to protect you. And now, I’ve made you powerless once again, Qingqing.” The pressure on my shoulders increased momentarily before easing off. “Leave. Return to your master. Once everything here has settled, I will bring you back.”

“Huh?!” I looked up sharply, my gaze burning. “Why?”

“Today, you saw how His Majesty favors you.” My brother’s eyes brimmed with worry. “I realize now that I am not skilled at deciphering the emperor’s intentions. Bringing you to Yundu was meant to give you a stable and comfortable life. Instead, I’ve dragged you into this quagmire.” He sighed. “With your abilities, if you leave me, you will surely be happier.” Reluctantly, he let go of my shoulders and turned away. “Qingqing, go.”

Anxiously, I blurted out, “Go? If I leave, what will happen to you? What about Sister-in-law? Yan’er? Nongmo?”

“These are matters I will handle.”

My voice choked as I clutched his sleeve. “Brother, do you resent me?”

He turned back, startled, his eyes full of confusion.

Tears streamed down my face, reopening old wounds within me. “Ten years ago, I watched helplessly as Father, Mother, Huamei, Uncle Quan, and Zhuyun all sacrificed themselves to protect me. And I... I could do nothing. Even when you were captured and sentenced to death, I could only passively accept it.” Staring at my hands, my vision blurred. “For ten years, I followed Master’s instructions, training tirelessly in the valley to ensure I would never lose another person I cherished. Brother, do you know how overjoyed I was to be reunited with you? How grateful I was to heaven?” I gazed at him intently. “There was once a gaping void in my heart, but now it has been filled by you, Sister-in-law, Nongmo, and Yan’er. It feels so comforting. Yet now, faced with a situation similar to ten years ago, you want me to leave alone.” Clenching my fists, tears poured forth uncontrollably, my voice trembling. “I’ve endured pain for ten years. I don’t want to endure it for another ten! What I’ve lost, I will reclaim with these hands. Even if I must defy the heavens, I will protect you all!”

Crack! A bolt of lightning tore through the night sky, and a fierce gust extinguished the lights.

“Qingqing.” My brother pressed his palm against the edge of the table, his strength evident. “Do as you wish. I will protect you from behind.”

“Brother...”

“After all...” With a sharp snap, the thick corner of the table broke off. My brother’s voice was low and resolute. “I, Han Yuesha, have also suffered for ten years, and I too do not wish to lose anyone.”

Under the flickering candlelight, we gazed at each other, tears streaming down our faces.

Outside the window, the wind howled and rain lashed mercilessly, scattering the garden in disarray.

“Your Majesty, the wind has picked up. Please put on a cloak.”

King Ling Zhun of Qing waved his hand dismissively, and the eunuch behind him respectfully retreated.

“Mianzhou, Duke Ding.” He muttered to himself, “His words were truly startling, his schemes meticulous.” Hands clasped behind his back, he paced to the map of the five kingdoms, where De Xian obediently held up a lantern to illuminate it.

Ling Zhun narrowed his eyes, pointing to the southwestern regions of Lianzhou, Mangzhou, Muzhou, and Rongzhou. His slightly aged hand traced upward. Then, he clenched his fist and pounded the northwestern region of Mianzhou. His gaze grew fierce, and he nodded with sudden clarity. “Grain, troops, salt, iron, the western front... So that’s how it is.”

Crack! A bolt of cold light split the night sky, and a violent gust extinguished the lanterns.

“Cough! Cough!” In the darkness, Ling Zhun covered his mouth, a fit of violent coughing wracking his body. When the lantern was relit, De Xian stared in panic at the king’s bloodstained palm. “Someone...”

“De Xian!” Ling Zhun snapped sharply. “Do not make a sound.”

“But, Your Majesty.” The eunuch knelt abruptly, his voice trembling with tears. “Your Majesty...”

The king’s eyes remained fixed on the map of Shénkūn, his brows brimming with authority. After a long pause, he clenched his fists and let out a long, defiant roar toward the heavens. “Fate!”

A night of autumn rain and raging winds swept away the lingering fragrance of spring and summer.

I had Que’er tie my hair into a simple bun and adorned it with a purple jade hairpin. Without applying makeup, I stepped out.

“Miss.” A hesitant voice came from behind me. I turned my head to look at Que’er. She blinked, revealing a pure smile. “Last night, I saw it clearly. Duke Ding knows martial arts, and he might even be half a wanderer of the jianghu. He’s so impressive.” She gestured animatedly with her hands. “Whoosh, and he disappeared in an instant! Miss, Miss. When did you two meet? Is it like those stories in Baiju where they fall in love at first sight under the moonlight?”

Duke Ding? Narrowing my eyes at the incessantly chattering Que’er, suspicion arose in my mind. Women were forbidden from attending the Thousand Wonders Feast—how did Que’er learn that Xiuyuan was Duke Ding?

“It must have been during your convalescence in Lianzhou,” she chirped cheerfully, her curiosity evident. “Under the flowers and moonlight, Duke Ding must have fallen in love with you at first sight. Right? Right?”

I stared at her silently, saying nothing. When her expression began to falter under my unwavering gaze, I finally asked, “Two days ago, when I fell ill, where were you, Que’er?”

Her face paled instantly, and she dropped to her knees. “Forgive me, Miss. I slept so deeply that I failed to attend to you. Please forgive me, Miss.”

I bent down and helped her up. “It was just a question. There’s no need to be so frightened. Besides, I sent you to rest.” Smiling faintly, I added, “I’ve already explained to Sister-in-law on your behalf. It’s fine.”

“Thank... thank you, Miss.” Que’er sniffled loudly, her voice breaking. “Thank you, Miss. You’re such a kind mistress... such a kind mistress...”

Hmm, a kind mistress. Glancing at Que’er, whose tear-streaked face resembled a little kitten, I couldn’t help but smile faintly. But I’m not a foolish mistress either.

“Miss.” A calm female voice came from behind me.

Turning around, I saw Yinzhang standing in the corner of the corridor, bowing slightly.

“What is it?”

“Madam requests your presence in the front courtyard.”

“Alright.” As I passed by Yinzhang, her emotionless voice rang out. “Que’er, you will remain in Changyue Pavilion today.”

“Miss Yinzhang!” Que’er exclaimed in a panic.

“Madam says your hands are skilled, and since autumn has arrived, you are to weave several feather-lined robes for Miss and Young Master to prepare for winter. Later, Xiue will bring materials for you to work on together. Remember, Miss’s robe should be crimson with silver-white accents, embroidered with a plum blossom motif at the center. For Young Master, use emerald green and willow yellow, and create a playful square flower design. Do you understand?”

“I understand...”

“Mm. Then return. I will attend to Miss.” Yinzhang adopted the authoritative tone of a senior stewardess.

“Yes...” Turning back, I saw Que’er casting a pitiful glance at me before slowly walking away, looking back three times with each step.

“Miss,” Yinzhang respectfully followed behind me. “Actually, Madam...”

I waved my hand, cutting off her explanation, and glanced at her indifferently. “No need to explain further—I already understand. If there is anything else, speak now.”

“Yes.”

We walked leisurely, and I reached out my hand to catch the droplets falling from the eaves. They were cool, carrying the touch of autumn.

“This morning, Duke Ding sent an invitation requesting Miss to meet him on the river.” A faint smile tugged at my lips as I nodded. She continued, “General Han left early for court. Madam said whether you go or not is entirely up to you.”

I flicked my fingertips and smiled. “Go, of course I’ll go. Yinzhang, prepare my horse.”

“Yes.”

Wandering alone to the main gate, I saw my sister-in-law standing by the screen wall, shaking her head with a soft smile. She waved her hand, and one of her maids unfurled a navy-blue cloak.

“One autumn rain brings another chill. Take care of yourself, little sister.” My sister-in-law carefully draped the cloak over me, fastening it securely. “Zhusu has already told me everything. If you want to do something, don’t hold back.” Her eyes softened. “Go ahead, but stay safe.”

“Mm.” I nodded, warmth swelling in my heart.

Rounding the screen wall and stepping out of the gate, I saw Yinzhang standing beside a speckled gray horse, holding the reins of another—a silver-saddled chestnut steed. “Miss, this is a prized Northern Liang stallion that General Han purchased at great expense. Its name is Ta Yong.”

Ta Yong? What a fine name! I stroked its glossy mane and mounted swiftly. Ta Yong tossed its head and snorted loudly, clearly eager to run.

“Let’s go!” I urged the horse forward, my cloak billowing behind me as everything along the road blurred into streaks of light.

Beyond Qinglong Gate, the view suddenly opened up. The vast Chi River stretched endlessly before me, its expanse embodying the grandeur of the heavens and earth. Unlike the poetic charm of Lei River, which carried the sentiments of spring flowers and autumn moons, the Chi River exuded an air of boldness and unconquerable spirit. Unconsciously, I tightened the reins, slowing the horse’s pace.

“Miss,” Yinzhang called out as she caught up on her flower-patterned horse. “Look over there!”

Following the direction of her whip, I turned my head. In the distance, a ten-zhang tall warship stood proudly on the water, resembling a floating fortress. Compared to the small fishing boats gliding past, it was like a giant towering over rice grains. Upon closer inspection, banners fluttered in the wind atop the ship, bearing the large character “Mian.” Below, dozens of soldiers dressed in dark red uniforms stood rigidly at attention, holding long halberds. Passersby stopped to gaze upward, murmuring in awe.

Brushing a strand of hair from my lips, I dismounted. Yinzhang led Ta Yong, following closely behind me. As we approached, voices buzzed all around.

“What an impressive ship!” “Mianzhou truly has abundant resources.” “Of course! Mianzhou lies upstream on the Chi River. I’ve heard the waters there are ten times more turbulent than ours.”

“Isn’t it said that Marquis Mian is incredibly handsome?” Women whispered among themselves. “Yes, I think I saw him appear on the deck earlier. From afar, he looked like a celestial being.” “Whoever marries such a handsome lord will be truly blessed.”

“Excuse me, soldier.” Yinzhang approached a guard, pulling a pale green invitation from her sleeve. “Could you kindly inform your master of our arrival?”

The burly guard captain glanced at Yinzhang, then examined the invitation carefully. His expression shifted instantly, and he stepped aside respectfully. “Young Master has already given orders. If Miss arrives, there’s no need for an announcement. Allow me to guide you.”

I nodded slightly and said softly, “Thank you for your trouble.”

Following him, we boarded the warship. Looking around, the vessel was immense, divided into three levels. The first level resembled simple cabins, somewhat low-ceilinged. The second level extended outward like the wings of a soaring bird, exuding an air of grandeur.

“Miss, please be careful,” the guard captain warned from the staircase. “The winds on the river are strong. Hold onto the railing.”

Nodding, I ascended to the second level. Gazing out, the clear autumn sky stretched endlessly, and the blue waters surged forward without bound. My chest felt expansive, as if I could swallow the heavens and earth whole. A surge of heroic spirit welled up within me.

“Bao Lin!” A sharp bellow cut through the air, and a white-bearded man approached against the wind. He stormed over, glaring first at the guard, then at me, his face stern. “How dare you let just anyone board? Don’t you know the Young Master’s temperament?”

“But—” the guard began, only for the old man to interrupt loudly. “But what but? This morning, several decorated boats appeared on the river, playing music and singing songs. Haven’t you noticed how the Young Master’s expression has grown colder by the minute? Are you trying to freeze your old father to death?” His piercing gaze locked onto me. “You must be Miss Shangguan. Allow me to advise you—give up. Our Young Master will not see you.”

“Miss Shangguan?” Yinzhang behind me asked in surprise. “Shangguan Wuyan?”

“Hmph, figures it would be you lot.” The old man waved his sleeve dismissively. “Bao Lin, escort them out! The Young Master has other guests arriving today. Don’t ruin his mood.”

“Father!” The tall soldier finally couldn’t hold back any longer. “This young lady is the Young Master’s guest!”

The old man froze, his beard fluttering in the wind as he stared dumbfounded. After a moment, his cheeks trembled, and he stammered weakly, “Wo-woman... woman... woman?”

Looking at myself, I wondered why I didn’t look like a woman. Why was he so shocked?

The old man’s eyes abruptly shifted from icy winter to blazing summer. Blinking against the wind, he forced back the moisture welling in his eyes. Sniffing deeply, he tilted his head and sighed, “Heaven has eyes, heaven has eyes! Finally, he’s come to his senses!”

Confused, I glanced at the guard beside me: What was this performance about?

The guard awkwardly scratched his head, embarrassed. “Father, Father!”

“Ah!” The old man snapped back to reality, his face splitting into a wide grin. “Bao Lin, you may leave. This esteemed guest shall be attended to personally by me.”

Speechless: a complete 180-degree turn.

“Oh, alright,” the guard bowed to me. “I’ll take my leave now.”

Composing myself, I replied, “Thank you for guiding me.”

“No need to thank me, no need at all.” The old man waved his hand generously, chuckling slyly as he walked alongside me. “May I ask, how old might you be, Miss?”

The river breeze lifted my cloak, sending it fluttering behind me as I answered indifferently, “I’ll be sixteen next month.”

“Good, good,” he squinted his eyes, stroking his beard. “And may I inquire about your surname? What did your ancestors trade in? Where is your family home? Do you have siblings? Are you betrothed?”

Staring at him in disbelief, I wondered if this elder was a census official from Mianzhou.

“Please don’t misunderstand, Miss,” he quickly explained. “I’m not asking these questions out of concern for status—I’m simply curious, curious.”

A muffled laugh escaped Yinzhang, who was usually solemn and taciturn.

Blinking, I took a deep breath and replied in one breath, “My surname is Han. I am the daughter of a military family. My ancestral home is in Lianzhou, but I currently reside in Yundu. I have one older brother and am not yet betrothed.”

With every word, the corners of the old man’s mouth stretched wider. By the end, he was beaming like a chrysanthemum in full bloom, his wrinkles bunching together. “Good, good, good.”

Without realizing it, we had ascended to the third floor. Strong winds whipped around us, but the view was breathtaking.

There were only three or four rooms on this level. Following the old man to the central door, he gently knocked and spoke softly, “Young Master.”

The wind howled angrily, but there seemed to be no response from within.

“Young Master,” the old man persisted, undeterred, his voice tinged with amusement. “The person you’ve been waiting for has arrived!”

The fierce wind stirred my hair, obscuring my vision. Suddenly, a familiar medicinal scent wafted toward me. My footing wavered slightly as the roaring waves and howling winds intensified. I felt my hairpin loosen; then, with a soft clink, the purple jade hairpin slipped from my hair and shattered into pieces on the ground. Catching my flying locks, I smiled faintly. “Xiuyuan.”

“Xiu… Xiu… Xiuyuan?” The old man began stuttering again.

Xiuyuan cast him a cold glance before his phoenix-like eyes softened as he addressed me softly. “It’s chilly outside. Come in.”

Following his tall figure into the room, I found it impeccably clean, almost startlingly so. A few crimson furnishings adorned the space. On the desk lay several slightly yellowed books, neatly arranged alongside ink, brush, paper, and砚台. At the center stood a round table with a teapot and teacup, accompanied by a single stool. It was unmistakably Xiuyuan’s style, and I couldn’t help but chuckle.

“Sit,” he gestured to the stool, picking up the teapot to pour tea. Suddenly, his brows furrowed, and he touched the pot with his fingers. “Uncle Song, bring a fresh pot of hot water.”

“...” Uncle Song stared at him, speechless for a moment.

I waved my hand dismissively. “It’s fine like this.”

“No, it’s not.” His eyes were resolute, exuding an overwhelming pressure. “The cold poison hasn’t fully dissipated yet—you can’t be careless.”

His commanding presence was staggering.

“Uh...” I watched as Uncle Song lowered his head, muttering and counting on his fingers. After a moment, he looked up with an expression of delighted surprise. “Sixteen words!”

His abrupt and cryptic statement left me momentarily stunned.

“Young Master,” he exclaimed, trembling with excitement, “this is the first time I’ve ever heard you say so many words!” He gazed at me with gratitude, continuing, “Not easy, not easy at all—Young Master is finally showing some humanity!” With that, he darted forward, snatched the teapot, and bolted out the door like a madman.

“Miss,” Yinzhang whispered softly, “your hair...”

I gathered my long locks, which nearly touched the floor, and glanced down, turning slightly. “Just tie it up loosely.”

“But... your hairpin broke.”

I smiled faintly and raised my head. “Then lend me...” My voice trailed off as I noticed that Yinzhang had only braided her own hair and carried no extra ornaments. Sighing, I grabbed my tangled strands, preparing to tie them into a simple knot. Suddenly, a carved white jade hairpin appeared before me. Looking up, I saw a faint smile playing on Xiuyuan’s lips.

Hesitating briefly, I took the hairpin and examined it closely. It was an exquisitely crafted phoenix hairpin, its details lifelike and intricate—a true masterpiece. The phoenix’s beak held a shimmering seven-colored jewel, mesmerizing in its beauty. Whose was this? A flicker of unease stirred within me.

Yinzhang took the hairpin and loosely tied my hair into a bun. At that moment, Uncle Song returned, smiling warmly, holding the teapot. “Young Master, hot tea—the finest Sanqing blend.” He poured me a cup. “Miss Han, please try it.” The aroma was fragrant, and the taste rich and unique. Unable to help myself, I praised, “What excellent tea, truly exquisite.” Nodding slightly, I suddenly heard a soft chirp from above. Confused, I looked up to see Uncle Song’s face shift from astonishment to ecstatic joy. He stepped back and bowed deeply to me.

“Huh?” I asked, perplexed. “What is this about?”

He raised his head, excitement brimming in his eyes, but then glanced behind me and abruptly closed his mouth. Pouting, he blew at his beard in frustration, his expression endearingly comical. Turning my head, I saw Xiuyuan take the square chair from the desk and place it beside me, sitting down with an air of authority. His cool gaze locked onto Uncle Song, carrying a clear warning.

“Hmph.” Uncle Song sighed and squinted at Yinzhang. “Has this young lady ever seen such a grand ship?” Yinzhang shook her head honestly. Clapping his hands in delight, he exclaimed, “In that case, allow me to show you around!”

“No need, thank you,” Yinzhang replied politely.

“Huh? No need to be so formal!” Uncle Song chuckled.

“Really, there’s no need.”

Uncle Song’s lips drooped, his expression crestfallen. “So... you’re still upset about my earlier rudeness?” His tone was pitiful. “Then I’ll take my leave.”

“Uncle,” Yinzhang said sympathetically, glancing at him and then seeking my approval.

I nodded slightly, and Yinzhang quickly followed him. “Thank you for guiding us, Uncle.”

“Hehe, very well, very well!” Uncle Song beamed, closing the door firmly behind him.

Outside, the wind grew fiercer, pounding against the door. The sky darkened further. Raising my head, my gaze met his deep, black eyes, and my heart skipped a beat. Summoning courage, I spoke softly, “Xiuyuan, actually...” His phoenix-like eyes narrowed slightly, waiting for me to continue. Clenching my fists, I steeled myself: “You don’t need to propose because of that matter. Between us, everything is clear and proper. You shouldn’t feel bound by so-called propriety to step into this quagmire. You should be like a free breeze, roaming the heavens and earth.”

We stared at each other—me resolute, him unwavering. After a long silence, his calm voice cut through the tension: “And what about you?”

Those three words struck my heart like a hammer. What about me? Yes, what about me? My eyes stung, and I lowered my head, hiding my tears in the shadows. Drops of water stained the floor—two, then three. Closing my eyes, I sighed. “Since I was five years old, I’ve been mired in this life, powerless to escape. Now that I’ve found my brother again, I must stand by his side. Because I know how treacherous and arduous this path is.” Suppressing the ache in my nose, I forced a smile. “That’s why I hope you, Xiuyuan, will stay far away.”

With a loud bang, the window was flung open by the wind. A damp gust hit my face, mingling with the tears sliding down my cheeks. Standing by the window, I closed my eyes, feeling the storm wash over me. My throat tightened as I whispered, “My brother’s original name was Yue Xiao—his flute music once moved the moonlit night.” Trusting him, I continued, “My father was Han Baiqing, the former General of You. In Qianguo ten years ago, I personally...” My lips trembled. “I personally watched my mother beg my father to kill her rather than endure humiliation, and then I saw him driven to Gupu Cliff, where he plunged into the abyss with her body. My brother and I barely escaped to Fan Capital, only to be betrayed. He was sentenced to execution, while I and our servants were ambushed during exile.”

On the horizon, the last traces of light faded, swallowed by swirling black clouds.

Clenching the window frame tightly, my voice came out hoarse. “If I hadn’t met my master, I would have surely perished. He instructed me to spend ten years in seclusion in the mountains to cultivate peace. I did, and I found calm. But the hatred etched into my bones could not be erased, nor could the bloodstains in my dreams be washed away. The first time I killed someone, I felt no fear—only exhilaration.” I glanced at my hands, laughing bitterly. “Perhaps my heart has grown cold, my blood chilled.” Sensing his approach behind me, I shook my head and gazed out the window. The clouds roared like caged tigers breaking free, racing across the sky. “When I realized my brother was still alive, I discovered that my heart hadn’t died, that my blood still ran hot. Even if it means descending into the path of Asura, even if it means fighting heaven and earth—I will not yield.” Staring wide-eyed at a rain-swallow soaring against the wind, I turned my head after a moment and smiled at him. “So, Xiuyuan, don’t abandon the pure blue sky for something trivial. Don’t fall into hell with me.”

Thunder crashed, echoing through the heavens. The sound seemed to burst forth from the dense clouds, rushing toward the earth.

Xiuyuan’s deep eyes mirrored the stormy sky, churning with ink-black intensity. Silence reigned, oppressive and terrifying. Suddenly, the wind roared like a mountain collapsing, whipping water spray past me. A sudden downpour drenched me, chilling me to the bone.

My eyes stung, and I lowered my gaze. Pure and untainted as you are, you shouldn’t step into this mire. So, fly away.

But suddenly, I was enveloped in a warm embrace. The storm behind me was completely blocked. These arms were lean yet strong, exuding determination. The steady rhythm of his heartbeat near my ear had a soothing, almost magical effect.

“I’ll stay with you,” his deep voice rumbled above me, like a feather brushing against my soul. Tears spilled from my eyes. The wind stirred, eliciting a crisp, melodic chirp from the phoenix hairpin. My hands hung limply at my sides, my lips trembling. Like a small boat battered by a violent storm finally finding harbor, I felt an overwhelming sense of safety. Finally, unable to hold back, I began to sob softly.

Thunder boomed, reverberating through the heavens and earth.

Han Yuesha entered the eastern annex of the Ministry of Personnel. There, seated in a large chair, was a tall man with half-closed eyes, gazing absently at the dark clouds on the horizon.

“Third Prince,” Han Yuesha gave a slight bow. “May I ask why you summoned Zhusu?”

Ling Huiran gestured to the round stool opposite him. “General Han, please sit.” His demeanor exuded tension, resembling a predator lying in wait, dangerous and poised.

The room fell silent except for the thunderous roar outside. Ling Huiran’s hawk-like eyes pierced directly into Han Yuesha, who sat upright without flinching or averting his gaze.

“General Han, I’ll be straightforward,” Ling Huiran began in a low, measured tone. “This palace wishes to form a marriage alliance with you.”

Confidence gleamed in the Third Prince’s eyes, his tone resolute. “General Han, you must know that yesterday’s proposal from Duke Ding has already aroused Father’s suspicions. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have repeatedly inquired about your military affairs during the court session. If you still hesitate to part with Miss Han and keep her confined in her chambers, Father will only interpret it as you waiting for the one-year period.” He tapped his fingers rhythmically on the armrest. “General Han knows well that I have always treated my soldiers kindly. My maternal family commands fifty thousand troops in the northwest. Coincidentally, my household is in need of a principal consort, Zhusu.” He leaned forward, making no effort to conceal his ambition. “A powerful alliance is exactly what I desire.”

They stared at each other for a long moment. Then, Ling Huiran sank back into his chair, his tone now soft and persuasive. “If you’re considering my younger brother, let me advise you to think carefully. That cunning fox Rong Kexun may claim he doesn’t mind sharing his daughter’s position as principal consort, but anyone with a shred of intelligence knows that trusting him would be akin to bargaining with a tiger. Once he’s used you, he’ll dispose of you—and your entire Han family.”

Ling Huiran’s lips curled upward, his voice heavy with intent. “General Han, what do you think?”

A flash of lightning illuminated the room, casting a harsh glow on the scar on Han Yuesha’s left cheek, making it appear more menacing. Bowing slightly, he responded with neither arrogance nor humility. “I am honored by Your Highness’s consideration, and I thank you on behalf of my sister for your favor. I only have one sister, and it is natural to cherish her. Though I serve in the military and reside in the imperial court, I will not recklessly decide her fate based on my own gains or losses. Please forgive my bluntness, but my sister has always been free-spirited and carefree. She is ill-suited for life behind high walls.” He raised his head, his eyes reflecting unyielding resolve. “Therefore, I cannot agree to this matter. I hope Your Highness will understand.”

Ling Huiran’s lips slowly curved downward, his gaze growing colder. After a long pause, he ground out through clenched teeth, “Fine, very well. I understand.”

Han Yuesha bowed respectfully, then turned decisively and disappeared into the storm.

The wind howled fiercely, and rain poured down in torrents.

King Ling Zhun of Qing stood before his desk, holding a wolf-hair brush. With a gentle flick of his wrist, the image of a fierce tiger leapt onto the paper.

De Xian dismissed the palace maids and eunuchs from the doorway and approached the throne, cradling his whisk. “Your Majesty.”

“Mm.” Ling Zhun paused his brush and asked softly, “What news?”

“After the court session, General Han went to the Ministry of Personnel.”

“Oh?” He raised an eyebrow. “Hmph, it’s Huiran.” Straightening his posture, he gazed at the slanting rain lashing against the palace exterior and murmured, “I deliberately pressed Han Yuesha during the court session to test the patience of my sons. The third prince is still too impetuous—too quick to act.”

A drop of ink seeped from the tip of the brush, landing precisely on the tiger’s eye. Ling Zhun chuckled knowingly. “Though the tiger may be fierce, if its eyes are blinded, it becomes nothing more than a caged beast.” Setting the brush aside, he pondered for a moment, then smiled faintly. “Prepare the carriage for Moxiang Palace—I’ll spend the day with Consort Cheng today.” After a pause, he added, “Ensure that the Empress and Consort Hua are informed of this.”

“Yes.”

No wind, no waves; no rain, no autumn.

When the heavens stir, where do the surging tides flow?