“The poison has now dissipated, and His Highness is no longer in serious danger.”

Thank goodness, I couldn't help but feel relieved.

“However...”

However? I turned my head to look ahead as the old doctor stroked his white beard, seemingly puzzled.

“But how did the last bit turn into fresh blood?”

For the past three days and nights, he had been spitting out thick black blood every time he woke up, and each time his eyes became clearer. But tonight, at the second drumbeat, when I opened my eyes from a daze, I found him vomiting a pool of crimson blood onto the bed.

“Yunzhi.” I walked over to the bedside and gently called out to him, leaning forward. “Where does it hurt? Did you injure your inner abdomen? Tell me, please say...” My gentle words were met with fiery eyes, and the resentment in his gaze left me speechless.

Yes, it was understandable for him to resent me after all the suffering he endured. A perfectly healthy person had become much thinner—it was only natural to hold a grudge.

After seeing off the doctor, I quietly sat by the bedside, fiddling with the warm water in the copper basin.

The night was somewhat cold, and white mist spread under the lamp.

After a while, I couldn’t bear the silence any longer and spoke first: “Yunzhi.”

“Mm,” he closed his eyes, looking very relaxed.

I wrung out the cloth and then gently placed it on his gaunt face. The steam from the warm cloth rose, gradually dispelling the eerie chill that lingered around him.

“I'm sorry.” My throat tightened, and my voice choked. “Yunzhi, I'm sorry.”

Seeing him reach out to lift the warm cloth, I quickly grasped his wrist: “Don’t move. Let me finish.”

His hand paused, stopping there.

“Yunzhi, this might be the first time, and possibly the last time, I open my heart to you.” My gaze roamed over the contours of his face outlined by the cloth.

“Do you remember ten years ago? When we first met.”

“Mm.” He nodded slightly.

“In fact, Yunzhi must have hated me back then.”

He didn’t speak, slowly lowering his raised hand.

“A naive little girl easily throwing around the word 'friend.' Looking back now, I might have hated her too.” I blinked back the tears welling in my eyes. “Yunzhi, do you know that I once hated you too?”

After a long pause, a low response came from under the cloth: “When?”

“On the way to the funeral procession, your eulogy was too sharp—sharp enough to make me think you’d always been watching coldly.” I stared directly at him. “Yunzhi, did you?”

His throat moved slightly, and the cloth on his face trembled lightly: “If I said I hadn’t, would you believe me?”

“Yes.” I answered clearly.

“Hmm,” he sighed deeply, the damp cloth outlining the slight curve of his lips. “Answering so quickly—if I didn’t know your nature, I might doubt the sincerity of that ‘yes.’” He chuckled softly. “At that time, the discord between Chancellor Qian and your father was no secret. Add to that the suspicious request for aid from Jing Country and the sudden disappearance of you and your mother—the cause and effect aren’t hard to piece together.”

If Father hadn’t trusted King You so blindly, perhaps the tragedy could have been avoided. Sometimes being too upright isn’t good either, like the plaque with “Majestic Righteousness” hanging in the old house—it remained, but still gathered dust and lost its color.

“As for whether my father, the king, was involved... um...” He paused. “This... I really don’t know.”

“Mm.” I nodded slightly. “Yunzhi, these past few days, I’ve been thinking: if the past had never happened, what would things be like now?” Removing the now-cooled cloth, I looked directly into his bright, dark pupils, speaking earnestly: “According to King You’s decree, even if I had resisted, I would have been forced into that cannibalistic palace and married to someone I didn’t want to marry.”

His pupils suddenly tightened, and his complexion changed abruptly.

I turned to rinse the cloth; the clear water reflected clear eyes. I knew what I wanted.

“Behind those towering gates and deep courtyards lies unbearable cold, where demons and goblins abound.” The cotton cloth floated and sank in the warm water, stirring tiny ripples. “Once inside the palace gates, it's either life or death. Originally, I was an extremely ordinary woman. In such an environment...” I turned slightly, looking at Yunzhi, who was listening intently, and smiled faintly. “I would choose survival.”

He seemed to breathe a sigh of relief, his expression softening considerably.

“However, surviving in the palace is akin to killing.” I continued to look at him, my clear voice echoing through the room. “Being killed or killing—this is the unchanging theme within those red walls.”

He opened his mouth to speak, but his gaze ultimately dimmed.

“It wouldn’t end with my tragic death; instead, I would transform into a grinning demon.” I wrung out the cloth, the dripping water hitting the copper basin with a pleasant sound. I raised my right hand, holding the cloth before him.

“And the person I kill might be my husband’s biological child, or one of his beloved concubines, or even him.”

His complexion darkened, tinged with a faint bluish hue.

“Do you think I’d be happy? Would he be happy?”

“No.” His brow furrowed slightly, frustration flashing across his handsome face. “You wouldn’t be.”

I silently watched those eyes brimming with expectation, gently wiping him down.

“As long as he’s strong enough, you can always remain yourself.” His voice rose slightly. “So, you wouldn’t be.”

I laughed bitterly.

“Why are you laughing!” He gripped my wrist tightly, his fingers tightening more and more.

Though my lips trembled slightly from the pain, I continued to smile: “I would be.”

“No!”

“I would be.”

“I forbid you from being!”

“Even if you forbid me, I would be.” I sighed. “Power corrupts, and circumstances force change, Yunzhi. You’re adept at manipulating hearts—how could you not understand such a simple truth?” I twisted his wrist, applying pressure gradually. “I truly would be.”

His lips drooped slightly, and his piercing black eyes bore into mine. I didn’t flinch or avoid, calmly returning his gaze.

“Yunzhi, to me, you will forever be a special existence.” I pointed to my heart. “Whether as Feng Yunqing or Han Yuexia, there will always be a corner here that belongs to you.”

The fierceness in his black eyes faded, like two deep ponds rippled by a gentle breeze, shimmering faintly.

“In the past, I agreed to enter court to allow the Han family to see the light of day again.” I paused, taking a deep breath. “But now, I’m willing to go to great lengths for you, no matter the cost!”

Those pupil-deep pools rippled and rippled, forming small waves.

I eased the pressure in my fingers, gently holding his wrist: “Yunzhi, if you desire the throne, I’ll help you. If you desire this world, I’ll bless you. Perhaps, in the future, when you achieve your wish, we can still drink and reminisce about the past. Yunzhi, are you willing?”

The tiny ripples in his eyes gathered circle by circle, gradually returning to a tranquil, waveless pond.

“Hehe,” he tilted his lips, his laughter slipping lightly into the night. That laugh was like a dragonfly skimming the surface of still water, disturbing the calm but not reaching the eyes—those eyes were chillingly cold.

“Qingqing.”

Under the flickering candlelight, his face was interwoven with mysterious shadows, and his haunting voice suddenly rang out.

“So cunning,” he carelessly played with my dangling hair.

“Hmm?” I responded in surprise.

“Really so cunning,” he slowly raised his eyes, his enigmatic gaze suddenly focusing. “Cunning enough to almost ensnare me.”

Ensnared… by my ways?

“Qingqing, these past three days and nights, I forgot some things—things I may never remember again in this lifetime. But,” he softened his tone and pointed to his heart, “some memories will forever remain here—I will never forget them.”

“Yunzhi...”

“I also made a wish.” With an indescribable air of intensity, he slowly leaned closer, his eyes fixed unwaveringly. “Do you want to know? Hmm?”

I instinctively avoided his gaze, unwilling to meet it.

“A secret,” he chuckled softly, resting his chin on my shoulder, clearly exhausted. “A secret that will eventually come true and be known to all under heaven.”

I reached out to help him lie down among the bedding and silently tucked in the corners of the blanket.

“I refuse,” he suddenly grabbed my wrist, his cold eyes holding a complex expression that was hard to decipher. “I refuse your proposal.”

Helpless, powerless, and speechless, I looked at him. Did he understand too much or not at all? Perhaps this really was the last time we would open our hearts to each other.

Yunzhi, my friend.

Quickly concealing my sense of loss, hiding it away securely, I lightly curved my lips: “Yunzhi, you should rest well first. Leave everything else to me for now.”

“Master.” A timely reminder from Liu Yao echoed from outside the room. “It's almost the third drumbeat.”

“Mm.” I picked up the mask on the table. “Sleep a little longer. I'll be leaving now.”

As I turned to walk towards the door curtain, I heard a melodious laugh from behind.

“Qingqing, do you feel like something is missing?”

Leaning against the door, I looked back. He had half-opened his robe, his long hair somewhat disheveled, scattered over the red robe, smiling innocently...

The night was so quiet it made one uneasy. I turned my face to look towards the dark west.

“Missing that annoying flute sound?”

My hand clenched into a fist inside my sleeve; he was still so adept at guessing people's thoughts.

“Could it be...”

...

Could it be... could it be... could it be...

A haunting echo reverberated in my mind, making me somewhat anxious.

“Master?”

“Mm.” I responded absentmindedly.

“That...”

The lantern ahead swayed, disrupting the trailing shadows.

“I saw something last night.”

“What?” I glanced at Liu Yao ahead of me.

“Master hit... hit... hit...”

I raised an eyebrow coolly, watching him. Wasn't he usually quite articulate?

Liu Yao's eyes darted around, frowning and biting his lip alternately. After struggling for a while, he suddenly exclaimed softly, “Ah, it was hitting mosquitoes!”

Hmm, in my semi-conscious state, I seemed to have swatted a mosquito. That mosquito bit painfully. Thinking of this, I touched the back of my neck, relieved that my quick action prevented it from forming a bump. But...

“Achoo!” A gust of cold wind blew by, and Liu Yao sneezed loudly.

Mosquitoes with the strength to bite in the coldest days of winter were truly bizarre. I shook my head and continued forward.

“Master.”

“Mm?”

“Does Master always use martial arts to hit mosquitoes?” His eyes were full of curiosity.

“Ah, it's a habit.” I gazed at the dim residual stars and sighed. “Previously, when living in the mountains, those mosquitoes were half a finger long each, flying fast and fiercely. Without using a palm wind sweep, they couldn't be hit.”

“Oh...” He dragged out the ending.

“Mm?” I felt surprised.

The swaying wind lamp ahead illuminated the path; beyond the moon gate was my residence. Facing the dark night, I walked straight ahead.

“Your servant just thinks...”

I tilted my head to glance behind me.

“That mosquito was pitiful.”

...

Could it be that he misunderstood? No, Xiuyuan has confidence in me, hmm! Confidence!

Could it be that he fell ill? No, Xiuyuan's medical skills are very proficient, hmm! Very proficient!

Could it be that he got injured? No, Xiuyuan's martial arts are outstanding, hmm! Outstanding!

Could it be...

“One thousand ten, one thousand eleven, one thousand twelve...”

His chanting-like soft voice broke my thoughts. I stopped walking and quietly observed the person before me. He leaned against the wall, dozing off, his chin occasionally dropping. “One thousand eighteen, one thousand nineteen, one thousand... zero... zero...”

“Twenty.” I suddenly spoke, startling him awake.

He wiped the drool from the corner of his mouth and looked at me with sleepy eyes: “Master...”

“Alu, what are you counting?”

He lifted the lantern to illuminate my feet, revealing a circular mark.

“I was just curious how many turns Master needs to vanish into the ground.”

“Good, very good.” My lips twitched.

“Master, it’s past the third watch. You shouldn’t be squatting by the west wall anymore.”

I glared fiercely. When did I ever squat!

“You should take a bath before court starts. Not to mention, the smell on you is truly...” He moved his mouth and nose, retreating further. “...truly unrefined.”

It was just some medicinal scent.

“Besides, there hasn’t been any movement from next door for a whole day. Listening through walls won’t yield anything either.”

Could it be? Countless question marks sprouted in my mind like bamboo shoots after rain. I shook my head. Rather than indulging in wild guesses, I might as well investigate directly.

With that thought, I pushed off with my foot and flew away.

“Master!”

The winter night was long and pitch black. I looked up but couldn’t see the top of the wall, relying only on instinct. As I flew up several zhangs, I headed toward the outer wall.

“Master, our west wall is three zhang high!”

What?! Too late...

A heavy blow struck my forehead, and my brain buzzed.

“Pain.”

Golden stars flashed before my eyes, and I felt myself falling nine levels.

“Master! Ma...”

The sound abruptly stopped, no, it seemed to stop beneath me. Rubbing my forehead, I slowly sat up.

“Alu?” My vision was still blurry, unable to see clearly.

“Pop pop...”

I stood up, feeling as if several copper bells were clanging inside my head.

“Alu, where are you?”

“Pop pop pop...”

“Alu?” I blinked, trying to regain clarity.

“You stepped on my hand.”

“Ah.” I hastily jumped away. “Sorry.”

“...”

Leaning against the wall with my hands on my head, I sternly said, “No money to feed me, but there's spare cash to build walls. Alu, how are you managing the household?” Hearing his voice, I furrowed my brows tighter, “Are you panting? Did I wrong you?”

“Heavens!”

A mournful roar made my head spinier and my vision blurrier.

“How hard is it for me! I've been a housekeeper, errand runner, attendant, maid, and nanny. Now I'm a human cushion and still get scolded! Heaven, are you playing with me?”

I looked up to see Alu circling around that spot.

He suddenly stopped, pointing at the sky and roaring, “Isn't it!”

The sound spread far and wide; only to hear a rooster crow from beyond the wall: “Oh—oh—oh!”

“Alu?” I cautiously approached, gently coaxing, “It’s alright, build the wall as high as you want. I won’t say anything about it anymore.”

His eyes flashed with ferocity, his chest heaving violently, then he sucked in a breath and roared, “It wasn't me!”

“Oh—oh—oh!”

I opened my mouth to speak but heard the sound of robes fluttering in the wind. Looking up, I saw the long garment flowing like wind returning snow, resembling a plain flower spiraling down from a branch, falling gracefully and elegantly.

Just one glance made my heart tremble slightly. How much I missed him, how much I yearned for him.

The affection spread like spring grass, covering the mountains and fields in an instant.

“Qingqing.” He walked out from behind the night mist, with a faint smile.

“Tsk! Such a strong smell...” A comment from behind reawakened my sense of smell.

The wind blew, carrying the scent of... rouge...

He stood three steps away, quietly looking at me, his clear gaze brimming.

“Could it be...” Annoying voices sounded again behind me.

Entangled affection can evoke tender feelings and also sow doubts that gnaw at the heart. Looking into those clear phoenix eyes, I smiled happily. Even if he was fragranced with alluring scents, what of it?

Holding hands with you, our affection has no doubts.

I trust him.

Stepping forward to embrace his waist, I felt reassured.

In the blink of an eye, he became my world. We silently embraced, speechless for a while.

“Xiuyuan.”

“Mm.”

Buried in his chest, I murmured softly, “Don't hold me so tight.”

“Pain?”

“No...” I squirmed, creating some distance, stealing a glance at him, then looking away. “Do I really have to say it? I have my pride too.”

“Mm?” This sound carried a laugh. His slender fingers brushed through the hair by my neck, gradually circling where the mosquito had bitten.

My ear felt scorched, incredibly hot, and it began to itch.

Lowering my head, I forced out a sentence through gritted teeth, “Don't you think I smell weird?”

“No.” He bent his arm to pull me into his embrace, his voice as refreshing as summer dew. “Very fragrant.”

His black hair fell on my cheek, tickling me. The itch spread quietly, reaching my heart.

Turns out, from the start, there was only one person I could truly open my heart to.

...

“Really?”

My hand paused, the peach blossom fish patty stopped at the corner of my mouth.

“Ah, Brother Changnan, among all the civil and military officials, you're the only one I can confide in. I wouldn't deceive you for anything.”

I glanced back at the fake mountain behind me. No wonder people disappeared from the office at lunchtime, they all came out to “confide.” Taking a small bite of the soft, salty-fresh fish patty, my eyes moistened with emotion. So delicious, government food really is the best.

“But I heard that Duke Ding and the Ministry of Rites' Feng Attendant have a deep friendship, tsk, quite profound.”

That tsk sounded somewhat strange. I chewed slowly, unwilling to miss any bit of the delicacy.

“Those rumors are completely unfounded. Does Brother Changnan believe that His Majesty would force the Feng Attendant to sell himself?”

What?! In my excitement, a fine bone in the fish patty got stuck in my throat. Not wanting to alert the two behind the fake mountain, I leaned over to induce vomiting.

“That certainly won't happen.”

Won't what happen? Would His Majesty not force me, or would I not sell myself? Damn it, what nonsense!

“Yes, and last night I personally saw Duke Ding and the Seventh Prince enter the private room at Yunshang Pavilion. Later, when I wanted to order some Dan Gui for drinks, the madam said all the top girls were booked today. Tell me, could this be false?”

So that's where the scent of rouge came from, just routine business, routine business. I took a deep breath, as if I could still smell that enticing fragrance. My stomach churned, rising nausea, and I vomited.

“Since entering Yundu, Duke Ding has never entertained anyone.”

“Mm.”

“Even when the Left Chancellor wanted to host a welcome banquet for him, he refused.”

“That's right.”

“Now Duke Ding is warmly visiting brothels with the Seventh Prince?”

Warmly? I wiped my mouth, unable to help but laugh.

“Yes, I personally witnessed it.”

“So does that mean Duke Ding and the Seventh Prince are collaborating?”

Dragged into the mess again? My chest felt suffocated. Xiuyuan, how can I repay you? Even if I want to, I can't.

“Indeed.”

“Now, the Third Prince will marry the Princess of Yi Country, and the Seventh Prince has allied with Duke Ding. The situation is becoming unclear again.”

“We must choose sides carefully. This is a matter of life and death.”

“Mm.”

Afterward, the two seemed to fall into deep thought, and finally, it quieted down behind the mountain. I basked in the gentle winter sun, slowly closing my eyes. Even officials without factions are thinking of choosing sides, yet I aimlessly try to muddle through these six months, how naive. I should thank the Third Prince. If not for that poisoned wine, I might still be holding onto the belief of “if others don't offend me, I won't offend them.” Little did I know, in this political arena, struggle is inevitable. There's no question of “whether to offend,” only “who offends first.”

I slowly opened my eyes, gazing up at the sky. Between being killed and killing, I choose... to kill.

My palm clenched into a fist. I am no longer that helpless child.

The hawk breaks through the sky, not crying like the cuckoo. The past, the past, will not return.

“Brother Changnan?”

“Mm?” Behind the fake mountain, the conversation resumed.

“I think it's better to follow the Seventh Prince.”

“Why?”

“The Left Chancellor's daughter passed away on the second day after entering the household. Perhaps this is fate.”

Has the Third Prince already made a move? It makes sense. According to Qing etiquette, on the third day after entering the door, the new bride should pay respects at the ancestral temple. Dong Huiru was famous throughout the capital, and many people knew her. Even if the Third Prince found a master of disguise, there was still the deeply hidden newly appointed Seventh Prince Consort who would worship together. Rather than letting the Seventh Prince catch them, it's better to announce the death beforehand. But, the cause of death?

“Uncle Zhang, don't talk nonsense. This matter is not what you think.”

“Oh?”

“Yesterday, this case was submitted to the criminal court. I read the file, and it turns out that the Third Prince's Consort was poisoned by the Third Prince's favored concubine.”

Favored concubine? I held my breath, a beautiful face flashing in my mind, chilling my body involuntarily.

“Impossible!”

“Keep your voice down!”

“Alright, alright.”

“Originally, weren't there four young male entertainers who captivated Yundu: Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter? Spring and Summer were redeemed by the Left Chancellor and Lord Qiu respectively, while Autumn and Winter were taken in by the Third Prince. The Third Prince Consort was poisoned by that Mi Dong.”

Mi Dong? If I recall correctly, that child's name is Yan Qiu. It's not him, it's not him. I sighed in relief, the sense of guilt suddenly dissipating.

“How did he dare?” This person's tone was somewhat excited.

“Two days before the wedding, the prince had all the young entertainers in the mansion castrated upon turning sixteen, and even the favored Mi Dong didn’t escape.”

“No wonder, this clearly shows a move against the Princess Consort. Alas, the resentment of a favored concubine can be quite fearsome.”

“In the end, it's all due to the Third Prince’s varied tastes. Haven’t you noticed? These past two days, the prince and the Left Chancellor have petitioned for an official title, but His Majesty hasn’t budged.”

“He must still be angry with the Third Prince.”

“But this anger won’t last long. After all, next month the Princess of Yi Country will be married over. In the end, the Left Chancellor's daughter was just a stepping stone. Moreover, relationships between men aren’t uncommon in court. A few days ago, both the Ninth Prince and the Ministry of Rites' Feng Attendant took leave. But today at the morning court...”

Hm? What again? I couldn’t help but extend my ears, listening intently.

“Brother Changnan, you saw it too, right? That big mark on the back of his neck, tsk, it’s too obvious.”

No matter how much I twisted my head, I couldn’t see it; frustrating.

“If he weren’t an official, he’d probably be collected by those few people.”

“Not just those few. Such a beautiful youth with a peach-like smile would be desired even by me…”

“Sigh…”

The fragmented sighs reached my ears, bile rising once more. Frowning, I turned to leave.

His Majesty hasn’t yet bestowed a title upon the Third Prince Consort—a thought-provoking piece of news indeed.

I gazed up, a leisurely cloud drifting overhead, its shadow falling below, obscuring my form. Clouds follow dragons, winds follow tigers—today was destined to be restless.

“Master!”

This signature booming voice...

“Lou Jing.” I nodded slightly.

“Master.” Brother Bai Tu pulled my sleeve, rushing forward quickly.

“What’s wrong?” Seeing him look around nervously, something must have happened.

“You’ll know when we get there.” His expression was unusually serious.

...

“Lou Jing, the indispensable person you’ve been talking about is him?” A compiler from the Imperial Academy pointed at my nose, looking at me with disdain.

He Meng’s enormous body suddenly blocked my view.

“Lord Feng is our leader, naturally indispensable!”

He was one of those honest people who, having received some favor, would go to great lengths for others.

“Leader?” This was a sneer. “He’s merely a figurehead. Only Lou Jing here has eyes blind enough to consider him the real leader.”

“Enough, Wen Rao.” Lu Wen, hiding in the shadows, spoke indifferently. “If he’s come, then let him stay. Lord Feng is considered one of us.”

“What nonsense with this young lad!”

It seems I need to start by subduing these humble clansmen. I bent down to pick up a few pebbles, moving around to He Meng’s front. “Brother Wen Rao?” I smiled, startling the man.

I glanced at the tangled branches and scattered leaves obstructing the view, raising my wrist to flick the pebbles.

“Uh!” “Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!”

Muffled cries came from behind trees and rocks.

I coldly looked at the stunned group, speaking softly: “Even a young lad like me knows this place isn’t suitable for lingering. Yet, esteemed masters dared to discuss confidential matters here. You...” I brushed my sleeves, sneering, “Do you want everyone to know?”

Their gazes fell, mouths opening and closing, eventually becoming docile.

“I’ll follow your orders!” Bai Tu looked at me with admiration. “Wherever Master says, He Meng will go.”

I swept my gaze over the silent group, pointing to a nearby spot: “There.”

Broken ice floated in the pond water, faintly revealing carp gathered at the bottom in small groups. Looking around, the waterside pavilion offered an unobstructed view.

I closed the memorial scroll, glancing sideways: “Lou Jing, is everything written here true?”

He clasped his hands in a bow, his gaze firm: “Every word and sentence has been verified.”

“Good.” I smiled slightly, pulling with both hands.

“Zha...”

“Master!”

“Feng Shaochu, what are you doing?!”

With an unyielding glare, I continued tearing the paper.

“You bastard!” Zhang Wen Rao lunged at me with a ferocious expression. I leapt onto the railing.

My hands continued until the memorial scroll turned into dust.

“Master!” Bai Tu looked pained, his jaw quivering. “Master! How could you?!”

“Lou Jing, if I remember correctly, after that impeachment in the hall, you were transferred to the Ministry of Works, correct?” I spoke calmly.

“Yes.” He lowered his head. “Since I arrived at the Ministry of Works, I’ve been tirelessly busy with official duties.”

“No.” I interrupted him. “You've been digging up old records.” Paper scraps slipped through my fingers, drifting away with the wind.

“Yes...” His face reddened. “But the colleagues transferred with me are also digging up old records.”

“Have you ever wondered why the former Minister of Works, now the Minister of Revenue, Lord Nian’s weaknesses were conveniently found by you?” I pressed urgently. These three reined in their grievances, frowning. “Have you thought about why His Majesty transferred you to the Ministry of Works, why the editorial officer rank in the Imperial Academy was raised from eighth to fifth grade? Could it be because they appreciated your reckless and consequence-blind impeachment?!”

“Lu Wen, you’re dissatisfied?” I mocked, staring into those furious eyes. “Apart from ruining a life, what else did you gain from that impeachment? Huh?” Spreading my palms, letting the paper scraps fly. “Why did His Majesty transfer your position and promote your ranks? Have you thought about it seriously? Do you understand?”

Expressions shifted from anger to surprise to confusion, these three frozen in place.

“Don’t understand? Let me tell you. The establishment of the Imperial Academy and the promotion of editors are all part of His Majesty’s grand plan. From the humble clan examinations to the present, what have you done the most? Huh?”

“Copying documents, categorizing memorials.” Lu Wen muttered.

I bent down, softening my voice: “Facing imperial edicts, government orders, and departmental approvals daily, is there any better school than this?”

“You mean!” Lu Wen's eyes brightened suddenly.

“That’s right, His Majesty wants you to become familiar with state affairs and understand the kingdom’s operations.” I spoke slowly. “The purpose is self-evident.”

“Master, you mean His Majesty is teaching us?” He Meng couldn’t hide his joy. “His Majesty intends to rely on...”

Before he finished, Zhang Wen Rao covered his mouth: “Quiet! Do you want everyone to know?”

I watched him with amusement, Zhang Wen Rao’s cheeks reddened, avoiding eye contact: “Please continue, Master.”

I jumped off the railing, lazily sitting down: “Your previous antics accidentally hit the mark, coinciding with natural disasters and human calamities, providing His Majesty with an excuse to rectify unruly officials. Only Lou Jing was transferred because he is still somewhat of noble lineage, backed by a censorial official. His transfer wouldn’t cause a strong backlash, making it a strategic placement of a vanguard within the academy.”

“Vanguard?” He Meng broke free from Zhang Wen Rao’s hold, looking confused. “What vanguard?”

I smiled at them: “Of course, the vanguard of humble clan glory.”

Looking at the three dumbfounded figures, I continued: “Though there was no change in positions, moving from eighth to fifth grade holds significant implications. Leaning on the railings, idly watching, the carp that were previously submerged at the bottom of the pond rose to the surface, competing for the floating paper scraps. Being a fifth-grade official in the academy means having authority.”

“The Imperial Academy... you mean!” Lu Wen's voice suddenly rose. If it weren't for the quiet waters, even a deaf person might have heard him.

“Mm, the Imperial Academy.” I curved my lips. “You just need to wait patiently until the time of change comes when you can truly display your talents.”

“Re... really?”

“Of course it's true, Brother Wen Rao.” I turned around, leaning against the railing. “Hey... don’t cry.”

“Let Master laugh at me,” Lu Wen patted his shoulder. “It’s just that we've waited for this day for too long, and our predecessors have also waited for too long.”

Alas, I sighed inwardly. This nation, this world—it was time for a complete cleansing.

“Master, your subordinate is dull; I still don't understand.” He Meng scratched his head, smiling very sincerely. “Bringing down the former Minister of Works would be beneficial with no drawbacks. Why did Master stop us?”

“Lou Jing, you’ve done well.” I strolled to stand in front of him. “In just a few days, you managed to find so much evidence among the Ministry of Works documents, showing that you are indeed diligent.”

“Master...”

“But have you ever thought about it? Most of those transferred to the Ministry of Works are people from the Right Chancellor's faction. It's clear that the Right Chancellor wants to bring down the Left Chancellor. Why did those people search the old records and find nothing, while you managed to gather such detailed evidence?”

“This?” He Meng frowned and took two steps back. “This?”

“They did it on purpose.” Zhang Wen Rao spoke in a hoarse voice. “They deliberately let Lou Jing take the lead.”

“That's right.” I looked at him approvingly. “The Right Chancellor's side wants the humble clansmen to make the first move. The Right Chancellor party knows that although you definitely cannot compete with the Left Chancellor party, your pride will surely result in mutual destruction.”

Their cheeks flushed red, indicating that I had hit the mark.

“If the humble clansmen fall, His Majesty's carefully planned chess game will be completely lost, and he will certainly not spare the Left Chancellor faction.” I stared at them coldly. “Remember, within this royal city, the only one who can kill is the King. If you want to eliminate someone, the first thing you must do is provoke the king's intent to kill. This is an unchanging truth of the dynasty.”

The three pairs of astonished eyes before me quivered slightly, resembling a pond rippled by fish.

“You must remember, the Right Chancellor party may likely be our ultimate enemy. If this plan succeeds, they will not only eliminate the opposing Left Chancellor faction and the rising humble clansmen but, most importantly, abolish the king's new policies. Thus securing the crown prince's position and ensuring their own. This is a case of watching the fire from across the river, borrowing a knife to kill, and hitting three birds with one stone. It cannot be said to be anything less than deeply scheming and audacious.” I moved past the three, gazing into the distance.

Xiuyuan, is this the reason you connected with the Seventh Prince? Though you seldom speak, you see deeper and farther than anyone else.

“For the humble clansmen to thrive, they must pledge loyalty to a king who shares their fate. As for who...”

“We saw this clearly ten years ago.” Lu Wen responded without hesitation.

“Mm, understanding is good.” I lightly brushed my sleeves, sweeping away the debris hidden in the folds. “Before the prince returns, you must not act rashly, even if provoked maliciously, you must endure for me.”

“Yes.”

“Remember, before your wings are strong enough, never challenge the storm.” I glanced faintly, speaking softly. “Once the snow falls to the ground, it is destined not to remain pure white. You may bend your waist, curve your legs, but never lose the belief in your heart.”

“Yes!” Three loud shouts startled the fish into darting away.

“At present, your only task is to achieve results and give His Majesty a reason to promote you.” Raising my head to look up, the winter sun had already shifted from its zenith. I waved my sleeve. “It’s about time, let’s disperse.”

I strolled along the winding bridge, casually stopping my gaze at a corner by the pond. This place seemed...

I stopped, quietly gazing, as if something was missing, a piece...

“Aha! It's a Taihu stone!” I clapped my hands lightly.

“Master has sharp eyes.” A respectful response sounded behind me.

“I always felt something was off.” I turned slightly, seeing the three bowing slightly, adhering to the etiquette of subordinates.

Are they convinced? My heart fluttered slightly. I pointed to the empty corner by the pond and asked, “Wasn’t there a Taihu stone here that resembled a beauty gazing at the moon? Where did it go?”

“The other day, that Taihu stone was moved into the inner palace.” He Meng lowered his usually loud voice. “His Majesty loves Dream Lake stones, but transporting them is difficult due to their weight. After gathering stones, there were still over ten missing for the Wubobo Lake in the inner court, so they had to use the ones here.”

Missing over ten pieces...

The cold wind stirred the red tassels on my hat, and the swaying ends occasionally brushed my cheek, making me laugh involuntarily. “Truly, heaven condemns him as well.”

“Master?”

I looked at the people before me and spoke gently, “What do you think it takes to kill a person? Hmm?”

Six pairs of puzzled eyes instantly turned to me.

Facing the biting cold wind, I curved my lips: “One word is enough.”

Silence behind me.

“Don't believe me?” I twirled the red tassel, lowering my eyes. “If I say I must enter the Fengtian Gate today, would you believe me?”

“Master...”

“Lord Feng! There you are!” A loud call came from the shore. “I've been looking for you for a long time!”

I put on a formal smile and hurried forward: “May I ask what brings you here, Eunuch?”

“His Majesty urgently summons you to the palace.” Sweat beads formed on the eunuch's forehead. “Please hurry and follow me to the Fengtian Gate!”

“The Fengtian Gate...” Trembling tones echoed behind me. “The Fengtian Gate...”

I nodded slightly: “Please lead the way, Eunuch.”

Golden sunlight wrapped around the leafless twisted branches, resembling the peach blossom fish cake.

Thinking really helps digestion.

If I remember correctly, half an hour ago, I just ate two large bowls of rice, and now I'm hungry again.

If possible, I wish I didn't have to think so hard.

If possible, I definitely wouldn’t have thrown away such a delicious fish cake.

...

Just a little more, just a little more and I'll touch it, the golden pumpkin pastry.

“Master.”

Skillfully shifting my body, I withdrew my distant gaze: “Hmm?” Got it, crispy on the outside and tender inside, perfect texture.

“Please wait here for a moment, Master. I’ll be right back.”

“Thank you, Eunuch.” I smiled and watched him leave. As his figure disappeared through the door, a pumpkin pastry found its way into my mouth.

Mmm, so delicious.

Holding the plate of pastries, I sat by the window, utterly absorbed in the pleasure. Much more enjoyable than the pickled radishes at home.

No, a thousand times, ten thousand times better.

“This way, please.”

I swallowed a peach blossom cake and turned my head to meet a pair of bright green eyes.

“Feng!”

“Ms...” Before I could finish, I received a tight embrace.

“Thank you.” She raised sincere eyes. “Meeting you is the first good thing that has happened since I left my homeland.”

“Madam...” Good thing, eh? The fragrance of the pastries permeated my heart.

She released her arms and carefully held a scroll of paper: “Your monarch truly keeps his promises. Pirates have been eradicated. Look, I got my sea pass.”

“Congratulations.” I offered heartfelt congratulations.

“Even someone like me crossing the seas can achieve their wishes, let alone someone as clever as you?”

Looking into those green eyes, I was speechless.

She tiptoed and planted a gentle kiss on my forehead: “May the wings of angels dispel the melancholy in your eyes.”

“Chris...” I choked up a bit, ignoring the astonished crowd, and gave her a cheek kiss. “God bless you, my friend.”

Perhaps with just one meeting, a profound friendship can deeply root in one's heart.

“Feng.” She looked back several times with a sweet smile. “Goodbye.”

“Goodbye.” This departure might be forever.

A misty mood swirled in my chest; it was such a season fit for melancholy. Accompanied by the attendants as we ascended the high-rise, I remained silent. The sound of the floorboards beneath our feet was akin to stifled sobs, as if reminding me that there was no room here for sighs or laments. Yes, one misstep could lead to continuous mistakes, not a moment could afford to be lax.

I exhaled the pent-up frustration in my chest and turned my head to look down. Below, there was a lake surrounded by grotesque rocks resembling flowers, birds, beasts, or old men. Truly, the rustling woods, cold waters, and peculiar stones made for an exquisite garden.

Upon reaching the top, I noticed a corner of this inner lake seemed desolate, lacking elegant and strange rocks, thus losing some vitality. It appeared that Lou Jing had spoken the truth.

The eunuch rolled up the curtain as a signal: “Master, we have arrived.”

I walked in leisurely and hadn't yet taken in the interior furnishings when I heard a deep voice from inside: “Is it Minister Feng?”

“Yes.” I bowed and entered. “Your humble servant, Feng Shaochu, pays respects to Your Majesty.”

“Come over and see what this is.”

I approached the desk and focused my gaze, momentarily stunned.

This was! My eyes darted back and forth incredulously, utilizing my quick note-taking skills. After a while, I averted my gaze and took two steps back, curiosity quelled.

“This is the generous gift presented by that foreign woman, but the officials who attempted to translate it couldn't make sense of it.” The person before me seemed somewhat irritated.

“Your Majesty.” I bowed deeply. “This map is indeed a generous gift.”

“Oh?”

“And it is a tool for stabilizing the nation.”

“Explain!”

“According to the foreign script above, the larger and coarser one is called a cannon, while the smaller and shorter one is a gun—both are firearms capable of killing from a hundred meters away.”

“A hundred meters away?” The King’s tone carried a hint of skepticism.

“Yes.” I lifted my head. “The power of the cannon is boundless; with just one shot, it can destroy sturdy walls or blast open gates weighing thousands of pounds.”

His eyebrows betrayed his intense interest; the beast within him quietly surfaced, named ambition.

“Compared to the hundred-pound cannon, the gun is flexible and compact, suitable for individual soldiers, with power surpassing arrows several times over.” At this point, I fell silent.

“And then?” The King eagerly inquired from his seat.

My gaze dropped: “That is all I saw, all I am worthy of seeing.” Military secrets were not meant for civil officials to pry into.

Few words, fewer actions, preserve life.

The sound of leather lightly rolling came from ahead: “You are very clever.”

“Your Majesty flatters me.” In truth, my palms were already drenched in cold sweat.

“Take a seat.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty.” I sat upright, my legs instantly feeling weak.

“Does my beloved minister know why I summoned you?” The King asked absentmindedly while holding the imperial pen.

I knew, but could only respond: “Your humble servant is dull.”

“On the ninth day of the twelfth month, the concubine of Liehou passed away.” His brush danced like a dragon, though he did not lift his eyes.

I took a sip of tea to moisten my throat: “On the eighth day of the twelfth month.”

“Hmm?” The imperial pen paused, sharp eyes piercing dangerously.

Calmly placing the teacup aside, I softly said: “The day the concubine passed was the eighth day of the twelfth month.”

I steadily met his gaze; as expected, those fierce eyes held no surprise. Indeed, after hearing that conversation behind the rockery, I became suspicious. Even if His Majesty was upset with the Third Prince's indiscretion, it wouldn’t warrant delaying the granting of titles, especially since Dong Huiru had a father who was the Left Chancellor. If I was summoned today, it indicated that His Majesty had already discerned the situation. As Minister Feng, I only participated in the wedding procession on the eighth day, how would I know about the incident on the ninth?

Therefore, this was not an ordinary summons, but a lie-detection test with life at stake.

I straightened my posture, placing my hands on my knees: “On the eighth day of the twelfth month, I followed the goose bearers, suddenly noticing bloodstains on the ground and immediately stopped the carriage. I found that the concubine’s wrist was soaked in blood, having already committed suicide inside the carriage.” Looking directly into his eyes without flinching, “Later, the Third Prince ordered the accompanying maidservant to pretend to be the bride, barely completing the ceremony.”

Those dragon-like eyes narrowed: “Did you let Liehou run wild!”

Though my heart pounded like a drum, my face remained calm: “As the ceremonial official, I believed the priority was to uphold the dignity of the royal family.” The bride refusing to marry was a great humiliation; did you want me to expose it on the spot?

After a long stare-down, his eyes still held their sharpness: “Why didn’t you report this afterward?”

I left my seat, keeping my back straight, and knelt directly: “Your humble servant is dull; I merely thought such matters were better discussed between father and son.”

In fact, these few days, you’ve been waiting for the Third Prince to confess, haven’t you? In your heart, a woman cannot compare to a son’s honesty, can she? But he disappointed you, didn’t he? I concealed the latter half of my sentence, but you must have understood.

I merely thought such matters were better discussed between father and son, but I didn’t expect the Third Prince to choose deceit.

“Yiran.” He cleared his throat. “Was the poison on Yiran also administered by him?”

I nodded gently: “Yes.” I wasn’t surprised by his knowledge; perhaps this was deliberately leaked by Yunzhi.

“Does Yiran know?” This was a father’s tone, concern evident.

“The Ninth Prince does not know.” I lied. “The Third Prince assumed the Ninth Prince knew and... used this to warn both the Ninth Prince and myself.”

Yes, I twisted the facts, distorted reality, and accused you of fratricide. However, Third Prince, this is all you deserve; this time, I will not let you off.

I heard the King’s breathing become heavy; he was angry.

“Cough... cough... cough...” The violent coughing sounded heart-wrenching, prompting the eunuch De Xian to hurriedly step forward.

I lowered my head, refraining from prying into what shouldn’t be seen.

After a while, when calm finally returned, a slightly hoarse voice sounded from above: “De Xian, draft the decree.”

“Yes.”

“Dong passed away on the ninth day of the twelfth month in the twenty-third year of Tianzhong, as the concubine of Liehou Ling Che Ran, granted the courtesy name 'Shang,' permitted burial in the royal cemetery.”

Those two behind the rockery were right about one thing: for the sake of the marriage alliance between the two countries, His Majesty would certainly not punish the Third Prince. Consequently, the Third Prince would never scheme against me again because he would never know of today’s conversation with the King.

“Feng Shaochu.”

“Your humble servant is present.”

“Our words vanish in an instant.”

“I have already forgotten.” I readily replied.

The bright yellow robe came into view; I knew he was looking down, and he knew I dared not look up.

Thus, one kneeling, one standing, silently confronting each other.

After a while, a strange growl from my stomach broke the eerie atmosphere.

“Gurgle...”

An untimely sound truly undermined my momentum, causing me to feel frustrated.

“Hehe...”

I raised my head in surprise, only to see the King pointing at me and shaking with suppressed laughter: “Ah!”

Laughing at my expense really annoyed me; although it was indeed an awkward scene, you didn’t have to be so delighted.

“Startling Your Majesty was my fault.”

“Rise, rise.” He sighed. “Letting my beloved minister go hungry is indeed a lack of consideration on my part.”

How fake, it’s making my stomach hurt.

I forced a smile: “It's because I have a large appetite.”

“Is it because you spent all your meal money on building walls?”

I couldn't hide my surprise; how did he know everything?

The King spiritedly opened the window, and the howling north wind whipped his robes. The golden dragon robe blended with the bright winter sun, enveloping him in a faint halo.

“Come.” He beckoned me over.

I stepped forward against the wind, lowering my eyes respectfully.

The tower was over a hundred feet tall, transcending into the clouds.

North-south roads for pedestrians, east-west streets for carriages.

The capital city lay beneath our feet.

The high winds at this altitude caused the fluttering edges of our clothes to occasionally brush against my vision. Following the direction of that long arm, amidst the red buildings of the eastern city stood a three-zhang-high wall, sticking out like a bald crane among pheasants or a dumb goose among pigeons.

Good, very good, indeed unique and embarrassing enough.

“If I remember correctly, to the west of your residence lives Duke Ding, right?”

I quickly composed myself and softly replied: “Yes.”

“Building high walls to keep people out.” The King muttered. “Who is it that you are guarding against?”

I raised my head, calmly meeting those fierce eyes reflecting gold, unflinchingly lying: “Against petty people.”

“Oh?” His thick eyebrows rose, showing some interest.

“The power of public opinion can melt metal, and accumulated falsehoods become truth. I am afraid.” Just today's baseless rumors behind the rockery were enough to ruin my reputation and cost me my life.

“Are they all false?”

The King had indeed heard everything; I felt my scalp tingle as I gritted my teeth and retorted: “Is there even one true statement among them?” Seizing opportunities, finding gaps to exploit—would you admit to pressuring ministers to “sell their flesh”?

He raised an eyebrow: “Indeed, street gossip is not to be trusted. However...” His dragon-like eyes darkened. “Didn’t I tell you to pay more attention? Why are Duke Ding and the Seventh Prince together?”

“It is my dereliction of duty, my shortsightedness, prioritizing my own reputation over the King's orders.” As I spoke, I knelt down. “I deserve ten thousand deaths; please punish me, Your Majesty.”

“Enough, enough.” The bright yellow sleeve waved, and light laughter came from above. “The more official one becomes, the softer their backbone gets. I truly miss the stubborn youth from the alliance meeting.”

Just like a tree branch, being stiff and unyielding only makes others want to break it. A willow's flexibility prevents easy breaking—it's better to be a little softer. Groveling means nothing; preserving one's life is most important.

I pointed to the official residences in the eastern city, introducing each grand house enthusiastically. Suddenly, my gaze stuck on the strange wall—why had a corner of Yunzhi's house collapsed?

“Beloved minister?”

A low call came from beside me, and I hastily turned around, pointing elsewhere. No matter what, I should first cover for Yunzhi and prevent His Majesty from noticing too early.

“Your Majesty, please look. That mansion on South Street belongs to Censor He. Mr. He’s house is made of gray tiles and blue bricks, without any luxury items—it is no wonder he is praised as He Yi Liang (One Tael He).”

“He Yi Liang?”

Seeing the King's eager expression, I inwardly rejoiced: “Yes, last month when Official Shang married off his daughter, everyone contributed gifts. When it was Mr. He’s turn, he only gave one tael of silver. Someone kindly reminded him that the amount was rather small, but Mr. He immediately frowned and said that one tael of silver was enough for a military household to live on for several months. What Mr. Shang Sima was marrying off was a daughter, not a golden Buddha.”

The smile gradually faded from the King’s face. Without taking his eyes off the view below, he asked heavily: “How much did the others give?”

“I only know that I spent half a month's salary on a Guanyin statue presenting children, which Mr. Shang didn’t even glance at.” I pretended to sigh sorrowfully. “Heaven knows, I ate pickled radishes for half a month just to afford that gift.”

Shangguan Mi, you shouldn’t have been arrogant about your daughter’s marriage, nor should you have been greedy and troubled my brother. Don’t forget there’s still a vast sky above and a King on the throne.

“Hmm.” He pondered for a moment and then pointed to the most elegant and delicate pavilion in the eastern city. “Whose house is that?”

Right on cue, I suppressed the excitement in my heart and smiled as I answered: “That belongs to the former Minister of Works and current Minister of Revenue, Lord Nian. Lord Nian also has a nickname.”

“Oh?”

“Called Nian Shen Tong.”

“Shen Tong?” Those eyes narrowed dangerously.

“Yes.” I smiled lightly against the wind, slowly explaining. “Lord Nian loves gardens, and that pavilion is called Guan Hu Lou (Lake Viewing Pavilion).” I pointed. “You see, isn’t there a body of water ahead?”

Taking a stealthy glance at the King’s expression, I began my decisive move.

“On the lake shore are scattered exquisite Dream Lake stones. It’s nearly a thousand miles to Dream Lake, yet Lord Nian managed to find dozens of stones weighing over a hundred jin to decorate the landscape. Everyone says Lord Nian can move mountains across distances and possesses extraordinary abilities.”

“Bang!” A loud strike on the window frame startled me so much that my legs went limp, and I instantly knelt down.

“De Xian!” This voice was a grinding growl.

“Your servant is here.”

“Summon Luo Tai Qing into the palace.” This voice was a heavy command.

“Yes.”

“Escort Minister Feng out.” This voice was an impatient dismissal.

“Your humble servant takes leave.” No need to chase me away—I am very perceptive, truly very perceptive.

The sky is vast, the clouds are distant, the waters ripple, and the reflections sway.

The fierce wind cuts sharply like carved stone. In the deep winter, pine trees wither and grass dies.

“Minister Feng.” The Chief Eunuch stood at the stairwell, looking back steadily. “May I ask what you said that made His Majesty so angry?”

“I merely chatted idly, I don’t know why... Sigh!” I gathered my brows and sighed. “Elder De, do you think His Majesty might, might...”

“Please rest assured, Minister. His Majesty never punishes indiscriminately.” He turned around, his steps steady and silent. “As long as you sincerely serve His Majesty, he will not punish you unjustly.”

“Thank you for your guidance, Elder.”

“Also.” He paused, looked back at me, his expression eerie, making me feel guilty for a fleeting moment.

“Although sexual desire is a major human ethic, it would be better for you to restrain yourself.”

“Eh?”

“This servant sees you are young and couldn’t help but remind you. Whenever such matters arise, officials in the court usually wear a false collar to conceal it. If the censors see it, tomorrow there will be another memorial on His Majesty's desk impeaching the Minister.”

“Hah...”

...

I finally understood, I finally figured it out!

No wonder Yunzhi’s last vomit was blood, no wonder Liu Yao sympathized with the “mosquito,” no wonder Xiuyuan cared so much about this “bite” on my neck.

So, this is how it is!

I clenched my fists, the sound of cracking bones echoing in the narrow sedan.

“Master, are you alright?” A soft question came from outside the sedan.

“Hmph, hmpf, I'm extremely well.”

“...”

I opened the handkerchief wrapped around the exquisite snacks. Since someone was injured and couldn’t fight back, I could only vent my anger through eating.

“Master, let me tell you some good news.” Alu’s voice carried a hint of flattery.

“Mm?” The pastries in the palace were really delicious. Why did I bother being polite to Eunuch De Xian earlier? I should have taken that food box without hesitation. What a pity.

“We will have meat to eat, no, we will always have meat to eat from now on.”

“Mm?” I licked the crumbs from the corner of my mouth and widened my eyes.

“The royal chef went to the street today to buy a jar for pickles.”

I snorted coldly with a sidelong glance. Pickles again.

“By chance, he bumped into a servant from the General's residence who was also shopping. They chatted for a bit, and then got separated in the crowd. When he got home, guess what? The pickle jar was stuffed full of cured meat, and there were a few silver tickets hidden under the meat.” His voice drew closer. “A total of three thousand taels.”

Brother, you are the one who cherishes me the most. The other day, you said you came to visit the Prince’s illness, but in fact, you came to check if I was living well.

My eyes felt heated, and the soft pastry stuck in my throat made me swallow involuntarily: “Alu.”

“Master.”

“Hmm?”

“When is my day off?”

“In five days.”

“Prepare some gifts for me by then; I want to visit the General's residence.” It has been a long time since I last saw my sister-in-law and Yan'er.

“Master.”

“Hmm?”

“You should still use the Prince’s secret passage.”

Hmm, that makes sense. That way, no one will see me, and I can stay as long as I want.

“The money the General saved from his teeth isn't for you to squander.”

“Alu, have I ever told you how unlovely your mouth is?”

“No...”

I gave the curtain a cool glance: “Are you grinding your teeth?”

“No...”

“Are you stomping your feet?”

“No...”

Looking at the shadow on the curtain, I persevered: “Stop pulling your hair. I guarantee Master Lin doesn’t like baldies.”

“Master.” He really was grinding his teeth.

“Hmm?” This piece is good.

“Have I ever told you that if you weren’t a woman, I would definitely beat you up.”

“No, but honestly,” I took a bite of walnut crisp and proudly glanced at the curtain, “you can't beat me.”

“...”

It wasn’t very filling. Looking at the now-empty handkerchief, I reluctantly dusted my hands.

“Alu?”

No response.

“Alu?”

Still silent.

“Are you angry?” I lifted the curtain and was met with a stern face. “Sorry, sorry.” I clasped my hands together and kept apologizing.

“Hmph.” He shot me an icy glare.

“Hey, let me ask you something. When did the corner of the Prince's house collapse?”

“After Master went to court.”

“Oh.” I sighed deeply. “What about the reason?”

Suddenly, he grinned, revealing teeth that were dazzlingly white in the sunset light: “There are two versions, the popular one and the actual one. Which does Master want to hear first?”

Multiple versions? How interesting.

“The popular one.”

“Hmm!” Alu cleared his throat and spoke without pause: “Today at the hour of Mao, when it was still dimly lit, suddenly a flash of golden light streaked across the sky, followed by a loud booming sound. A hundred-zhang-long azure dragon flew up from the eastern part of the capital, its claws and scales glittering strangely, leaving all witnesses in awe. Then, looking closely, Ning Hou's mansion couldn’t contain the dragon's qi and collapsed at one corner.”

I stared at him in shock, stammering: “This... isn't true, right?”

“Master is clever.”

I came back to my senses and asked softly: “Was it the Prince who spread this rumor?”

“Master is indeed clever.”

“What about the actual reason?” I was quite curious. If Yunzhi was spreading such rumors, the real reason must be extraordinary.

“Master has arrived at the residence, please get off the sedan.”

The sedan tilted slightly, and I stepped out smoothly.

“In reality, a calamitous enchantress appeared in our dynasty.” Alu sighed sorrowfully.

A dragon earlier, and now an enchantress? It seems the process was quite convoluted. I walked up the stone steps with my hands behind my back.

“This enchantress spent three days and nights alone with the bachelor on the east side, causing a storm of jealousy to rage in the west. He showed no outward emotion, but as soon as the enchantress left, he rushed to the east side, truly enraged and wielding a golden sword.”

I froze in place, feeling the wind howling fiercely.

“As a result, the mansion on the east side collapsed at one corner.”

“Is the person on the east side alright?” My voice was so weak it didn’t sound like mine.

“Yes, fortunately, a valiant hero from the martial world sacrificed himself for his master and carried him out just before the house collapsed.”

“Alu.” I slowly stepped down the stone steps.

“Hmm?” A tone filled with schadenfreude.

I looked up at the red door next door: “I think tonight this enchantress won’t eat at home.”

“Master is clever.”

“I think the person on the west side has already prepared dinner waiting for this enchantress.”

“Master is indeed clever.”

The sunset was too brilliant.

And the wind remained fierce...