The hall’s floor was covered with thick gold-threaded carpets. Exquisite painted palace lanterns hung from the beams, tied with brilliant silks. Around the great hall stood eight pairs of tall copper pillars. Beside each pillar stood a person-high carved silver candlestick, candles already lit. The candles were mixed with incense, filling the entire hall with a warm, intoxicating aura. At the very center of the hall sat the Emperor’s dragon throne. Beside the Emperor sat the Empress. Below them sat higher-ranking consorts—Noble Consort Wu, Consort Zhang De, Noble Consort Mei, Consort Rou, and others. Below them sat several favored Imperial Concubines. Below the hall, the left side held male guests—arranged by imperial princes, imperial clansmen, then by official rank. The right side held female family members, arranged similarly to the male guests. Though this banquet the Empress held was merely an ordinary feast, unless there were special circumstances, each family’s women had to formally attend according to their rank. So this time, Li Weiyang’s position was actually far ahead of Li Changle’s. This made Li Changle grind her silver teeth in hatred. Originally she thought that with this face, she could reclaim everyone’s attention. Yet those people merely glanced at her momentarily before looking away. This was completely beyond her expectations.

In fact, if Li Changle weren’t excessively beautiful, no one would give her a proper look. Because her glorious deeds had spread everywhere—everyone knew she had first offended the Emperor, then caused Fifth Prince to be rebuked by the Emperor because of her. Reportedly at her mother’s funeral she had even worn elaborate dress… When marrying a wife, one seeks virtue and household harmony. Who would dare marry such a woman home? A proper wife wasn’t a vase to casually display—she had to manage the household. One bad match could bring disaster for nine generations.

The more Li Changle thought, the more hateful she felt. Moreover, she faintly sensed the rotting smell from her body overpowering the cosmetic powder and seeping out. She couldn’t help feeling a trace of fear, terrified of being discovered.

Li Weiyang didn’t even glance at Li Changle once. Because her position was very close to the Ninth Princess, the Ninth Princess pulled her into conversation, asking all sorts of questions.

After so long, Tuoba Zhen involuntarily let his gaze fall on Li Weiyang. Though she only gave him a profile view—the blue gemstone on her forehead appeared plain and fresh. From a distance, half her face flashed with faint radiance in the dim light. The gemstone paired with her raven-black cloud of hair was like the moon one imagined on a hazy spring night. Her skin was naturally pale, requiring no powder. Today she had applied a little, making her complexion even more fair and clean. She had lightly applied a layer of rouge on top. Against her snow-white skin, it was like morning clouds at sunrise—delicate and beautiful, making one suspect it would break with a breath. She wore first-grade satin made into wide-sleeved robes and a waist-bound long skirt. At first glance it appeared purple, but actually a layer of thin purple gauze lightly draped over the dress, outlining beautiful curves. He sat motionless there, unable to bear even blinking. She was more beautiful than before. Previously she had been only thirteen—her figure and face not yet fully grown. In a flash over two years had passed. She had already become a young woman. The formerly tender flower bud had bloomed in full fury. Perhaps because he was daily driven by ambition and oppression, her such beautiful countenance appeared even more intoxicating in his eyes. Tuoba Zhen watched carefully, thinking it was truly too great a pity to destroy such a beautiful young woman.

Just then, Li Weiyang sensed his gaze. Her deep eyes turned toward him—in that instant Tuoba Zhen even experienced an illusion, feeling that this face which could be called a superior beauty was covered with a layer of blurred mist. But soon this mist dispersed. Li Weiyang showed expression—but expression he couldn’t understand. Her slender moth eyebrows slightly furrowed. Her eyes held cold disgust and contempt. Finally these emotions suddenly melted, condensing into mockery. Tuoba Zhen felt his mind suddenly go blank. Even his heartbeat seemed to disappear, followed by incomparable fury.

Just then, a smiling beauty walked to the Emperor’s side. The Emperor actually made an exceptional addition of a seat beside him, even closer to the dragon throne than the Empress. Everyone couldn’t help but curiously look toward this beauty. Not looking would have been fine—one look and the crowd erupted with exclamations of praise, like cold water splashing into hot oil.

“This must be Consort Lian!”

“I heard she was sent from heaven to assist His Majesty!”

“Indeed—heaven truly blesses our Dali!”

Everyone spoke obvious lies with open eyes. Though everyone knew the so-called celestial being story was pure nonsense, as long as the Emperor believed it, they had to believe it. Right now the Emperor’s favor toward Leng Youlian was extraordinary. So now everyone spoke in unison, believing she was sent by heaven to serve His Majesty. Hearing everyone’s praise, Li Weiyang couldn’t help finding it laughable. The so-called celestial transformation was just a performance. The one performing was the Emperor, while the audience watching the show now all played along enthusiastically. Li Weiyang thought this way, her gaze involuntarily falling on Leng Youlian. Speaking of which, she had only heard Minde mention her before and had never truly met Consort Lian face to face. Looking carefully, this consort was indeed extraordinarily beautiful—dignified and lovely, a national beauty. Standing there she was like peonies shrouded in mist, flower trees piled with snow, making all the palace consorts in elaborate dress lose their luster, even making the hall’s lamplight dim. Honestly, this was Li Weiyang’s first time seeing a woman who could compete with Li Changle in appearance.

The reason Li Weiyang could view Consort Lian with an ordinary mindset was because she herself didn’t rely on appearance for survival. So she didn’t particularly care about other women being more beautiful than herself. But Li Changle on the other side could no longer maintain even an ordinary mindset. She secretly used her gaze to strip Consort Lian’s face—inch by inch, bit by bit, scrutinizing, analyzing, carefully comparing with herself. The more she compared, the more alarmed she became. This Emperor’s favored consort was truly a rarely-seen beauty in the world. Not only did every detail match hers, her bearing was even more noble, like the bright moon in the night sky. Li Changle couldn’t help clenching her fists. Her sole reliance was beauty. If she lost even in beauty, what did she have left to depend on!

“Younger sister’s jewelry is quite distinctive, and the clothing style fresh. I don’t think it was made by our dynasty’s craftsmen?” Noble Consort Wu looked at Consort Lian, asking with an affectionate expression.

Consort Lian wore a gemstone necklace glowing with a sea-mist red and matching earrings—clearly extremely expensive. Consort Lian had outstanding appearance, jade-like complexion, plus a graceful figure—slender as the moon. Such brilliant red gemstones naturally suited her best. Her delicate skin reflected faint red color, as if that slender neck were transparent.

“Elder sister doesn’t know? This jewelry was a gift from foreign envoys! Since last year, His Majesty has treasured it greatly, keeping it in storage. I’ve asked for it several times but he wouldn’t part with it!” Consort Rou, who had borne the Ninth Princess and Eighth Prince, smiled, seeming both genuine and playfully reproachful.

That string of red gemstones like agate, lustrous and captivating, dazzled eyes and ears. Especially the large red gemstone hanging from the chain’s center was extremely striking. Consort Zhang De looked and laughed lightly: “Consort Rou, younger sister, how can you compare with Consort Lian? She’s His Majesty’s heart’s treasure!”

The Empress looked down on all the consorts from her superior position: “Consort Lian is so radiant even I can’t look away. I still remember when all of you entered the palace—each one like flower buds. In the blink of an eye so many years have passed. Now seeing the young and beautiful Consort Lian, I truly must admit defeat, must sigh—time truly passes in an instant.”

The Empress was the Empress. A few words made Noble Consort Wu, Consort Zhang De, and Consort Rou simultaneously change expression. The Empress was reminding them they had already aged, long since lost favor. She was also reminding Consort Lian that even the most beautiful appearance had no capital for pride. What palace women feared most was time. Only the Empress’s position never changed. Others were nothing.

Consort Lian smiled slightly, her expression unchanging, as if she hadn’t heard everyone’s cold ridicule at all. Her gaze looked down below the platform, finally falling on the Jiang family members. Her eyes showed slight emotion, then quickly turned away as if nothing had happened.

“The Crown Prince arrives!” Just as they were speaking, the eunuch at the entrance gave a long announcement. The Crown Prince entered, accompanied by two beautifully dressed women. One was naturally the Crown Princess. The other was that favored secondary consort Jiang Lan. Crown Princess He Shi came from the Duke of Min’s household—tall in stature, oval-faced, with short eyebrows, medium-sized eyes, a slightly plump nose, and a mouth that seemed to droop slightly. She could be called a beauty, but compared to secondary consort Jiang Lan beside her, her appearance was greatly inferior. Jiang Lan inherited the Jiang family’s high forehead and had a pair of bright eyes, a delicate pointed face. Compared to First Madam and Duchess of Wei whose faces couldn’t hide their arrogance, she appeared much more gentle, amiable, and refined. She now stood modestly one shoulder behind the Crown Princess, not showing any special intimacy because Jiang family members were present. She didn’t even glance toward Jiang Xu and their seats.

Li Weiyang thought—this Crown Prince’s secondary consort was quite a character. In her memory, the Crown Prince deeply loved this secondary consort. Most of the time they shared bed and pillow, even neglecting the Crown Princess for this. The Crown Princess had complained to the Empress many times, but the Empress, to win over the Jiang family, greatly favored Jiang Lan. The Crown Princess became increasingly depressed and died of illness within two years. Speaking of it, if the Crown Prince smoothly ascended the throne, Jiang Lan would have a share of becoming Empress. But whether in past life or present, the Jiang family treated this secondary consort indifferently, showing no intention of helping her or strongly supporting the Crown Prince. Even when the Crown Prince was forced into a corner with no way out, the Jiang family didn’t extend aid. Jiang Lan even immediately abandoned her husband and returned to the Jiang family… In Li Weiyang’s view, this was simply inconceivable. She had previously thought that judging from the Crown Prince and Jiang Lan’s loving relationship, at least their marriage was very happy. But from the result, the Jiang family never intended to support the Crown Prince. Even Jiang Lan was just a front. This whole family completely isolated themselves from the throne, only pledging loyalty to the next Emperor. As for who became Emperor, it all depended on individual ability.

The Empress smiled: “You truly deserve punishment—the banquet is about to start yet you dare make your father Emperor wait!” Though she said this, her tone held no reproach.

The Crown Prince turned back and glared coldly at the Crown Princess. Originally he should have arrived early, but this Crown Princess caused trouble at the residence again, giving him a huge headache. Now arriving late publicly was truly too disgraceful! The Crown Princess looked at him coldly, her eyes full of mockery. You let a secondary consort’s treatment far exceed mine as Crown Princess. You even bring Jiang Lan to receive foreign envoys. Since you’ve already made me lose face, why should I leave you face!

The Crown Princess and Crown Prince had undercurrents surging. Li Weiyang saw from afar but only shook her head. Inner household unrest was a major weakness of the Crown Prince. In later struggles, Tuoba Zhen greatly exploited this point. These two only glared at each other like fighting cocks—didn’t they see the Emperor already showing an impatient expression? Regardless, the Empress ordered young eunuchs to arrange tables and chairs. After another bout of confusion, a table was finally added below the Emperor.

“Crown Prince brother always favored that Jiang Lan. Crown Princess sister-in-law is very angry! Originally on their wedding day the two entered together, but that night the Crown Prince actually rested at Jiang Lan’s place. This enmity is huge!” The Ninth Princess quietly whispered to Li Weiyang. “Moreover, Mother Empress always helps Jiang Lan, infuriating the Crown Princess. I heard the Crown Prince’s residence has small quarrels every three days, big quarrels every five days! The Crown Princess even smashed the bed in Jiang Lan’s bedroom!”

Li Weiyang looked at the Crown Princess in surprise—that petite figure… quite domineering. However, anyone would be unhappy sharing their husband with another woman, let alone with a delicate woman who monopolized the husband’s favor. Looking at Jiang Lan’s willow-like, pitiable appearance, Li Weiyang found it very difficult to connect her with the Jiang family’s strong bloodline, let alone find any similarity to First Madam or Duchess of Wei. But thinking it over, Jiang Lan was a concubine-born daughter at home. The Jiang family’s attitude toward her naturally differed greatly from the other two. Everything seemed to find some reason.

Seeing Jiang Lan, the Empress’s eyes flashed with admiring light. She couldn’t help grasping her hand in praise: “Lan’er’s dress today is quite distinctive.”

“Thank you for Your Majesty’s praise.” Jiang Lan said submissively.

The Empress and Jiang Lan chatted. The Crown Princess was left aside, completely unable to interject—another bout of frustration.

Soon after Jiang Lan returned to her seat and sat down, her expression unchanged as she swept a glance to the side. Her gaze passed Li Weiyang’s table, pausing slightly, then turned away as if nothing had happened.

“Sister Weiyang, you don’t know—this Jiang Lan is very formidable. She’s not that good-looking yet has the Crown Prince completely mesmerized…” The Ninth Princess was happily whispering in Li Weiyang’s ear, completely losing a princess’s decorum. While speaking, she turned to look at Jiang Lan. But Jiang Lan had already turned her eyes away. Instead, Mighty General Jiang Nan from the other side glanced over. Their gazes met. The Ninth Princess instantly shivered, feeling as if she’d been seen through completely from inside out.

“What’s so great…” the Ninth Princess muttered quietly and said no more.

Of course it was great. The Emperor now most valued the Li family among civil officials and most relied on the Jiang clan among military generals. Though in Dali’s court civil officials ranked above military generals, the Jiang family was an exception. Their achievements had long surpassed ordinary generals, ranking among dukes and marquises. Li Weiyang’s gaze involuntarily passed over Jiang Lan, Jiang Nan and others toward Jiang Xu at the head seat. He was exactly as in her memory—appearance looking quite heroic, posture extremely upright, smile appearing very gentle. If one didn’t know better, they would think him a civil official, never imagining he was the famous first-rank General Conquering the West on the battlefield. She just didn’t know what variables his appearance at today’s feast would add! Recalling the scene of Jiang Nan deliberately coming to provoke, Li Weiyang was already very clear—today’s banquet would likely have changes, and moreover, aimed at herself!

Li Weiyang smiled slightly. What should she do to bring herself the greatest benefit?

Jiang Xu, Jiang Nan, the Crown Prince, Jiang Lan, Tuoba Zhen, Noble Consort Wu, the Empress… This string of people and their faces flashed through Li Weiyang’s mind. She lowered her head. They all merely treated her as an eyesore stone. But sometimes such a stone could extremely likely influence the overall situation.

Jiang family men had always guarded the borders, rarely appearing in the capital. Two young masters suddenly arriving was enough to excite the ladies and misses. Eldest Young Master Jiang Hai’s appearance closely resembled Jiang Xu—handsome and upright, steady and resolute, full of masculine vigor. However, he had already married, so the ladies and misses were interested in his three younger brothers. The reason it was three not four was because Second Young Master Jiang Yang had already received an imperial marriage decree. His fiancée was the legitimate Miss Gao Wan’er from Marquis Xiangyang’s household. So the Jiang family still had Third Young Master Jiang Hua, Fourth Young Master Jiang Nan, and Fifth Young Master Jiang Tian remaining unmarried. The Jiang family—such a meritorious household, with sons so noble and upright—the ladies and misses could no longer sit still. They inquired about each other. Among the female family members, First Madam Jiang was already annoyed to death yet maintained a smiling face, hiding the pride in her eyes. Yes, First Madam Jiang had reason to be proud, because the Jiang family’s sons were truly dragons among men, in no way inferior even to the imperial princes.

Jiang Hai glanced at the female family seating across and quietly said to his brother: “That girl with the pale face and deep eyes is Li Weiyang?” He had always been outside. This was his first time truly seeing Li Weiyang.

Jiang Nan smiled slightly: “Could there be a second teenage girl sitting in a second-rank County Princess position?”

Jiang Hai nodded and commented: “Not bad-looking, but compared to Changle, still far inferior.” No matter how remarkable a man, they always judged women’s appearance as the first impression. His tone seemed to say—with such a face, Li Weiyang was passable, but only barely. Of course, Jiang Hai’s standards were very high. Not to mention his wife Lady Han was an outstanding great beauty—just those beautiful women various factions stuffed into his room had already spoiled his appetite. So his ability to give Li Weiyang such an evaluation was really quite acceptable. Of course, if Li Weiyang herself knew, she wouldn’t thank him.

Someone beside raised a cup toward Jiang Hai. He smiled and returned the gesture, then said quietly: “Father said to stop looking for trouble.”

Jiang Nan dismissively stared at Li Weiyang across and raised his eyebrows: “Big brother, you’re too cautious and careful. Don’t worry—this matter absolutely won’t connect to the Jiang family!”

But Jiang Hai frowned: “I’ll say it once more—don’t cause trouble.”

Jiang Nan laughed presumptuously: “She made Grandmother so angry she fell ill, yet you still tell me not to cause trouble?”

Jiang Hai smiled on his face. To outsiders he seemed to be chatting cheerfully with Jiang Nan. Actually he disagreed: “Just a minor character. Father’s meaning is not to disrupt the big picture for her.”

Jiang Nan laughed, casually picking up his wine cup: “Big brother, do you think Grandmother would let me personally act? Too laughable.” Though the Duke’s wife wanted to avenge Li Changle, she absolutely wouldn’t let Jiang Nan act personally. Regardless, if the Jiang family wanted to deal with Li Weiyang, they wouldn’t dirty their own hands. Since they wanted her to disappear, naturally someone would do it for them. They only needed to watch. This was also why Jiang Nan had prepared to give Li Weiyang one last humiliation—because he knew afterward he wouldn’t have a chance to see this face. Wasn’t that a pity? Haha. Jiang Nan smiled broadly while sizing up Li Weiyang over there.

Li Weiyang of course noticed the other’s unfriendly gaze, but her face showed not the slightest abnormality—composed, completely unlike a girl this age.

Not far away, Tuoba Yu was likewise thoughtfully watching the Jiang family. He finally understood why Li Weiyang disliked this group. They were indeed a group of very excellent men, but excellence was their family’s business. Using this pride to treat others like dust, casually trampling them—that wasn’t fun. He thought of the message Li Weiyang had Zhao Nan deliver three days ago and couldn’t help smiling slightly. He knew she was going to act but didn’t know exactly what she would do. But he could imagine it would definitely be a grand move…

Here various scheming and swords flying, there various delicacies flowing like water onto tables. Beside each table, palace maids nimbly warmed wine and served dishes for the honored guests.

Li Weiyang surveyed the scene but only saw Zhou Tianshou standing with hands lowered not far behind the Emperor. That other person the Emperor trusted more—Celestial Master-level Yin Tianzhao—still showed no sign. She glanced at Li Minde not far away. Li Minde seemed to know what she was looking for and made a “don’t worry” expression at her.

“Today it’s rare for all beloved ministers to gather together. Seeing you all enjoy yourselves comfortably means the Empress didn’t waste her efforts!” The Emperor smiled, turning to the Empress: “The Empress worked hard.”

After a period of recuperation, the Empress’s health was much better than last time. Her temperament had also recovered its usual gentleness. She smiled: “Your Majesty, sharing your burdens is what this consort should do. Holding this banquet is also to let everyone enjoy themselves!” After speaking, she looked at everyone and smiled: “Look, even the Jiang family’s eldest young master and fourth young master came. This consort remembers the first time seeing fourth young master was when he was four years old. At that time he followed First Madam into the palace, making a fuss to pick peaches from the imperial garden, refusing to leave! But in the blink of an eye he’s become such a heroic young general!”

The Emperor looked at Jiang Nan with a beaming smile: “Indeed, when the Empress says this, I remember. What a pity—Little Ninth is still young, otherwise marrying her to Mighty General would be a fine tale!”

The Ninth Princess of course knew this was a joke but still showed a cold face and snorted.

The Empress smiled, looking Jiang Nan up and down: “This palace’s maiden family happens to have a niece Yunyun—gentle and lovely, dignified and virtuous, perfectly matched with Mighty General!”

The Emperor’s smile became playful. Beside him, Noble Consort Mei smiled: “Your Majesty Empress, you forgot—Senior Scholar Liu’s little granddaughter is still unmarried, the right age for fourth young master, well-matched in status and appearance. His Majesty even promised to help matchmake!”

The Empress’s niece, Senior Scholar Liu who was a staunch supporter of Noble Consort Mei’s son Fifth Prince Tuoba Rui’s granddaughter—where were these two recommending marriage? Clearly they were trying to win over the Jiang family. The Emperor glanced at his Empress and Noble Consort Mei, then said to Jiang Nan: “Mighty General, I want to ask your own opinion!”

Jiang Nan stood. All eyes in the great hall fell on him. People’s expressions varied. He glanced at the shy Su Yunyun, then at the bold and charming Miss Liu looking at him expectantly. Somehow he also glanced at Li Weiyang watching the show and smiled: “Your Majesty’s kind intention—how dare this subject refuse? But I’m skilled at warfare, not at choosing a wife. Why don’t Your Majesty decide? Whichever young miss Your Majesty thinks is good, bestow her as my wife!”

Jiang Xu quietly rebuked: “How can you speak like this!” He immediately stood and bowed: “Your Majesty, my dog son was rude. Please forgive him.”

The Emperor laughed heartily: “No harm—I like precisely this straightforward nature of his.” Such military generals were easier to control. Compared to the deeply calculating Duke Jiang and Jiang Xu, Jiang Nan appeared much greener before the Emperor. This pleased the Emperor greatly. He smiled: “How about this—when Mighty General truly decides to take a wife, we’ll discuss it then. Otherwise with his such rough manner, if he offends a beauty, what shall we do!” While speaking, he laughed. Seeing this, everyone knowingly laughed along. Li Weiyang understood—the Emperor, seeing the princes all coming of age, was full of wariness. Naturally he wouldn’t casually let any of them win over the Jiang family. As for Jiang Nan, his seemingly confused and rude words actually hid deep mysteries. Choosing Su Yunyun would offend Fifth Prince. Choosing Miss Liu would offend the Empress and Crown Prince. Either way was disadvantageous. But kicking this ball to the Emperor—the result was vastly different. The Emperor didn’t want the Jiang family taking any side, so they had to maintain neutrality, touching no one. If it were ordinary subjects, they’d probably become collective thorns in the princes’ eyes for removal. But the Jiang family controlled military power, deeply rooted—of course impossible to uproot. This way, the princes had to try even harder to win them over. The Jiang family’s position became even more secure.

Jiang Nan smiled: “Your Majesty, this humble subject is reckless and ignorant. Fortunately Your Majesty doesn’t abandon me. This time returning from the border, I happened to find a pair of gyrfalcons. I specially brought them back to present to Your Majesty. Please accept them, Your Majesty.”

The Emperor smiled: “Really? Quickly bring them for me to see.”

Actually the Emperor wasn’t particularly interested at this moment. Gyrfalcons were all wild-grown, captured by people and trained for hunting assistance. Only this bird’s capture and taming were very difficult. Hence folk commonly had sayings like “nine deaths for one life, hard to get one famous eagle.” Precisely because gyrfalcons weren’t easy to catch and tame, during the late Emperor’s time there was even this regulation: any criminal exiled for violating law who could capture and present a gyrfalcon could redeem their crime, be released via post station. Therefore many people spared no expense purchasing them to gain famous eagles. But the current Emperor already possessed quite a few gyrfalcons—long since lost that novelty. He’d even bestowed them on beloved subjects and princesses. For instance, Princess Yongning’s household had one. Li Minde had once released that gyrfalcon to win an archery competition. But when the eunuch brought up that gyrfalcon, the Emperor was shocked.

Not just the Emperor—everyone was shocked, looking incredulously at the gyrfalcons in the cage.

Among gyrfalcons, the most precious were those pure black as top grade, pure white as superior grade, white mixed with other feathers as next, gray as even lower. The best gyrfalcons the Emperor had seen in his lifetime were all white feathered with impurities. Yet before his eyes suddenly appeared pure black top-grade gyrfalcons—two of them! Truly rarely seen in the world!

“Remarkable—actually such top-grade gyrfalcons!” The Emperor saw these gyrfalcons’ extraordinariness and smiled even more happily.

“Your Majesty, gyrfalcons are divine birds—fierce and ferocious by nature. Their power is like a thousand weights shattering stone, and their flight speed is as swift as lightning and thunder. In over a hundred years of our dynasty, this is the first time top-grade gyrfalcons have appeared in the world. This is truly a great and auspicious omen!”

Seeing this, the officials beside them quickly stood up to echo the praise, as though the appearance of these top-grade gyrfalcons foretold prosperity throughout the four seas and peace across the realm.

Li Weiyang watched their far-fetched associations with quiet mockery. No matter the dynasty, every emperor delighted in hearing talk of auspicious omens—just like the late Emperor. Once, someone had presented him with a stone streaked with red markings, claiming it was a “red-heart stone” that proved the people’s hearts had turned toward him. He was immediately enfeoffed as Minister of Rites.

Such absurdities were never absent in any dynasty or generation. Watching even her own father, Li Xiaoran, rise to congratulate the Emperor, Li Weiyang subtly curved her lips.

The Empress smiled: “Truly an auspicious omen—heaven blesses our Dali.”

The Crown Prince’s face also showed infinite joy: “Finding such gyrfalcons isn’t easy. Jiang Nan, you’re His Majesty’s meritorious subject!”

“Indeed—this is my first time seeing pure black top-grade gyrfalcons!” Tuoba Zhen also raised his cup, toasting Jiang Nan from afar.

Jiang Nan smiled slightly, his face showing extremely humble expression: “Not at all—Crown Prince and Third Prince overpraise me!”

“Aiya, no need for modesty!” The Crown Prince waved his hand: “Why not tell us in detail the process of catching these gyrfalcons!”

Jiang Nan’s face seemed infinitely honored: “Reporting to Your Highness, I didn’t catch these gyrfalcons. Rather, knowing I was returning to the capital, they followed our troops flying over a hundred li. When I accidentally discovered them, they actually landed one after another on our Dali military banner! Truly unexpected!”

The Emperor was overawed by the marvelous scene Jiang Nan described. Regardless of whether it was true or not, it was indeed a great auspicious omen. Thus, the Emperor grew even more delighted and actually took the initiative to raise his wine cup.

“Jiang Xu, you have raised a fine son—he has even brought auspicious omens to me!”

Jiang Xu quickly said, “Serving Your Majesty with loyalty is his duty, and also the good fortune of our Jiang family.”

Jiang Xu’s expression was incomparably humble, showing not the slightest trace of the awe-inspiring general he usually was; his manner was even more reverent than that of the Emperor’s attendant eunuchs. The Emperor was extremely satisfied and specially ordered a generous bestowal of gold, silver, and jewels upon Jiang Nan.

Li Weiyang watched and watched, then suddenly laughed.

The Ninth Princess whispered: “Sister Weiyang, what are you laughing at?”

Li Weiyang lowered her voice: “Me? Naturally laughing at how cleverly this auspicious omen came.”

The Ninth Princess completely didn’t understand. But seeing Li Weiyang had absolutely no intention of explaining for her, she grew even more puzzled.

With this incident, the atmosphere of the palace banquet grew even more fervent. Everyone could see that the Jiang family’s imperial favor was flourishing, and one after another they crowded forward with flattery, praising the Jiang family to the skies.

Li Weiyang carefully observed the Jiang family’s expressions, yet saw not the slightest trace of pride—especially in Jiang Xu. Not even his brows or eyes moved. Either he truly did not care for such praise, or his scheming mind ran so deep that he revealed nothing at all.

However just then, Noble Consort Wu suddenly cried out: “Your Majesty, look?!”

The Emperor glanced over, then stood from the imperial throne. That pair of magnificent birds just called top-grade divine birds—the gyrfalcons—had actually rolled their eyes white and died in the cage.

The eunuchs guarding the cage knelt everywhere, trembling. Eunuch Xia quickly went to check and reported: “Your Majesty… the gyrfalcons… the gyrfalcons are dead…”

Everyone was in an uproar. Jiang Xu’s expression changed. He said angrily: “Nan’er, how did you care for them!”

Jiang Nan’s eyes showed a trace of barely perceptible smile, but his mouth said: “Father, I… I… I don’t know either! Since entering the capital, this pair of gyrfalcons were fine. How could they suddenly—” He immediately knelt, pleading guilt: “Your Majesty, this subject is guilty!”

The Emperor’s expression was very ugly. Originally these gyrfalcons were just birds—if birds died, so be it, at most somewhat disappointing. But just now everyone called them auspicious omens, yet they died. Wasn’t this extremely terrible! Could auspicious omens die?! Certainly not! If auspicious omens died, some disaster must occur!

Seeing the Emperor’s face covered with dark clouds, those who had just called the gyrfalcons auspicious omens one by one seemed struck dumb, all looking at each other. The entire great hall was silent as crows and sparrows. Even the female family members held their breath.

Just then, an immortal-looking old Taoist strode in from outside, voice like a great bell: “Your Majesty! This matter is greatly inauspicious! There is a demon star in the hall!”

Everyone looked at this old Taoist in extreme surprise. Immediately someone recognized him—Celestial Master Yin! Actually Celestial Master Yin who had been missing since the banquet started!

In the silence, Li Weiyang and Li Minde exchanged glances, seeing laughter in each other’s eyes. As expected, he came!

Yin Tianzhao wore a fragrant leaf crown and eight trigrams robe, solemnly looking at the Emperor: “Your Majesty, do you remember this poor Taoist’s divination last time? At that time this poor Taoist expended countless efforts but couldn’t divine who this demon star harming Dali’s fate was. Now I’ve found a method that will definitely make this person reveal their true form!”

The Emperor immediately widened his eyes: “Truly?!”

Noble Consort Wu swept a glance at everyone. Her gaze fell on Li Weiyang. Though just sweeping past, it carried a trace of cold smile. Li Weiyang, don’t blame me. Originally we had no grievances. I wouldn’t meddle to harm you. But the Duke’s wife gave a promise—if we can eliminate you, she’ll persuade Jiang Xu to support Tuoba Zhen! The Duke’s wife’s influence in the Jiang family is no less than Duke Jiang’s. Noble Consort Wu and Tuoba Zhen immediately prepared to stake on this gamble! Thinking this, she smiled: “Your Majesty, Celestial Master Yin has never calculated wrongly. Since he says there is a demon star in this hall, then it must be true. Otherwise, how could it inexplicably doom Your Majesty’s auspicious omen to death?!”

She deliberately emphasized the two words “doom to death.” Somehow, when they reached Li Xiaoran’s ears, they sounded especially jarring. An ominous premonition quietly rose in his heart.

Yin Tianzhao said mildly: “I must ascend the divination platform, then I’ll make that demon star automatically reveal itself!”

Tuoba Yu watched coldly. The more he looked, the more he felt something wrong. He wasn’t clear on what reason the gyrfalcons died, but this old Taoist’s sudden appearance—when things go against normal they become demonic. Looked like careful response was needed!

The Emperor of course agreed. Not only that—he personally led civil and military officials out of the great hall, standing on the wide steps, watching Celestial Master Yin ascend the divination platform. This platform was a full four meters high, specially constructed for his rain prayers. Celestial Master Yin let down his hair, dancing wildly with spirits and ghosts on the platform.

At this moment, even the female family members curiously walked outside, watching Yin Tianzhao on the platform, discussing in succession.

Li Weiyang watched with a smile, saying nothing, until Li Minde walked before her, quietly saying: “Soon something very interesting will happen.”

Li Weiyang tilted her head: “Everything arranged?”

Li Minde smiled: “My hands itched for a moment… I made a small, small change. But I guarantee your satisfaction.” His handsome face glowed brilliantly before her eyes. Li Weiyang grew curious, but seeing his two eyes shining as he looked at her, she couldn’t help coughing lightly and turning her head away.

This brat—who knows what he did to show such a cunning expression.

In the crowd, Zhou Tianshou kept making eye signals toward Li Minde, requesting instructions. Li Minde smiled slightly, slowly lowering his left hand, middle finger resting on index finger. Zhou Tianshou understood this signal clearly—meaning the plan unchanged, telling him to proceed as usual without doubt. Zhou Tianshou couldn’t help smiling inwardly, then quietly stepped back several paces, blending into the crowd.

After the bronze ceremonial bell rang nine times, the ceremony officially began. A line of eunuchs holding lamp caps moved forward, extinguishing all the surrounding candles and oil lamps. The lighting on the platform dimmed, adding a layer of mystery to the entire ceremony.

On the platform, Yin Tianzhao loudly proclaimed, “His Majesty sincerely reveres Heaven, daring not slacken even in the slightest. Why, then, would Heaven not grant favorable weather to the realm of Dali, and bestow peace and tranquility upon His Majesty’s subjects?”

At this moment, dark clouds gathered in the sky, thunder rumbled, and it seemed as though a torrential rain was about to fall. Yin Tianzhao’s body trembled even more violently, shaking without pause like chaff being sifted. Coupled with the flying sand and stones and the sudden change in weather, this immortal-looking old Taoist truly seemed to be communing with Heaven and Earth.

Seeing this strange sight, everyone widened their eyes, not daring to breathe heavily, staring fixedly at Yin Tianzhao.

Tuoba Zhen laughed coldly. Li Weiyang as second-rank County Princess and Li Xiaoran’s daughter—to strike her down in one blow required personally performing this scene before everyone. Soon as the celestial guide said the calamity was Li Weiyang, her life would be finished! Such a beauty, such a smart woman—if she had submitted to him, how wonderful it would have been. But she was so unappreciative! Tuoba Zhen’s heart felt incomparable regret, plus a trace of hidden heartache. This was what he most wanted to obtain in his life besides the throne. Now he had to use it to flatter the Jiang family… Such a pity, too great a pity… Thinking this, he took one last look at Li Weiyang.

Farewell, stubborn and clever young woman. Since you refuse to help me seize the realm, then become a stepping stone for my realm!

On the other side, Jiang Nan curved his lips, his face showing a trace of cruel smile.

At this time, several lightning bolts flashed across the sky. The wind outside also suddenly grew strong, carrying sharp whistling sounds blowing into the hall. Not only making people outside sway unsteadily, but like going mad, blowing windows creaking and groaning. Gauze curtains in the hall also flew wildly. A strong gust suddenly toppled a stand, smashing a precious porcelain vase on the ground, shattering on the spot… On the platform, amid wind and clouds changing color, Celestial Master Yin wildly shouted: “What calamity can obstruct our Dali realm?!”