“Exactly.” Mo Cong waved his fan, the small insect-shaped pendant crafted lifelike and full of charm. He spoke casually as if chatting about family matters, “You are the Thirteenth Prince’s tutor, and Third Sister-in-law has always been close to the Thirteenth Prince, so Third Sister-in-law asking for your help is actually asking you to help the Thirteenth Prince. Even for the Thirteenth Prince’s sake, you wouldn’t refuse, would you?”

Liu Min’s heart shook. Back when Jiang Ruan had helped him, and later because of his own impropriety, the two had become even more distant than strangers. There was never help without reason in this world. Liu Min had always been clear that Jiang Ruan helping him must have had a reason. So… was this that reason now?

He seemed to think of something and asked urgently, “Has Princess Jinying been found?”

“No.” Mo Cong shook his head. “The Thirteenth Prince currently cannot extricate himself, and outside everything is chaotic. The entire court lacks stability – this was something Third Sister-in-law anticipated before her incident. She even foresaw that she herself might encounter trouble. Before anything happened, she instructed that if something did occur, we must definitely seek the tutor’s help.”

An indescribable emotion surged in Liu Min’s heart. Did Jiang Ruan trust him so much? The task at hand must be extremely important. For Jiang Ruan to trust him this way… Liu Min was a man of principles. Even serving as an official in court against his will, he had never violated his principles for a single day. Therefore, everyone in court knew he was most upright. But long ago Liu Min had realized that Jiang Ruan was not a good person – some of her methods were even quite sinister. This matter now was probably not something righteous either.

But that hesitation lasted only a brief moment. Soon, Liu Min spoke, “Very well.”

Now it was Mo Cong’s turn to be surprised. Today he had come to find Liu Min at someone’s request, but honestly felt uncertain, because everyone in court knew Liu Min’s temperament – he was extremely stubborn. Even knowing Liu Min had some feelings for Jiang Ruan that differed from ordinary affection, Liu Min would never betray his principles for personal emotions. Mo Cong had mentally prepared a long speech to persuade Liu Min, never expecting him to agree so simply. This truly shocked him. He hesitated, then asked with a smile, “Tutor Liu, you’re not deceiving me, are you? Is this answer sincere?”

“I know what you’re concerned about,” Liu Min looked at him. “Regarding this matter, I am serious.”

“Why?” Mo Cong also put away his playful expression. “Given your character, you wouldn’t agree so easily.”

“The kindness of recognition deserves repayment even in death,” Liu Min said plainly.

Mo Cong looked at him thoughtfully, seeming to understand the meaning in Liu Min’s words after a long while, then nodded, “Good, I trust you as well. But the palace has many eyes and ears. Tonight, I’ll take you to meet someone.” After saying this, Mo Cong consolingly patted Liu Min’s shoulder and left without further delay. To outsiders, it would only appear that Mo Cong had encountered the dejected Liu Min by chance and offered a few words of comfort based on their former classmate friendship.

Long after Mo Cong left, Liu Min looked at his palm with some bewilderment. What exactly was this favor he could help with? He knew Jiang Ruan’s capabilities. The current situation was certainly unfavorable to Jiang Ruan’s side. Could she really turn the tide? The hands she wanted to borrow were his own – could he, this incompetent scholar, truly accomplish anything? Liu Min slowly clenched his fists, the confusion in his eyes gradually fading, replaced by determination. Regardless, he had to try.

That night, Liu Min changed into coarse brown hemp clothing. Usually, besides official robes, he wore clothes personally made by his mother – relatively refined and respectable. Now wearing hemp clothing, he seemed to return to his days as an impoverished scholar, bringing many emotions to his heart.

Compared to other mansions with countless eyes watching, Liu Min was remarkably safe. First, as a tutor he held no real power, and second, his character was known to all – he couldn’t possibly collude with anyone. Such a person coming and going alone posed no threat. Liu Min going out himself truly had nothing worth following.

He came to a secluded small tavern. This tavern had a back hall, and the second floor of the back hall had a private room. Just reaching the door, he saw Mo Cong waiting outside, eyes lighting up, “You’ve come. Good, go in.”

Before Liu Min knew who was inside, Mo Cong pushed him in, saying, “Third Brother, Fourth Brother, the person has arrived. I’ll step out now.” He then tugged Liu Min’s sleeve, and without waiting for Liu Min to say more, shut the door.

Only then did Liu Min look up at the person sitting in the room.

The room was neither spacious nor cramped – just an ordinary tavern guest room. One person sat at the table while another stood by the window. The one at the table wore purple brocade robes, handsome-featured, looking somewhat familiar though he couldn’t recall where they’d met. Seeing Liu Min look over, the man rose and bowed to Liu Min, “Tutor Liu.”

This proper gesture reminded Liu Min who this was – also a court colleague named Qi Feng, of middling rank who rarely entered the palace. Liu Min had seen him few times. Moreover, Qi Feng used to have a small beard that made him quite distinctive, but now it was shaved off, so Liu Min hadn’t recognized him. He returned the courtesy, “Lord Qi.” Then he looked toward the person by the window.

This person Liu Min knew very well. Wearing only a black and gold brocade robe, tall and straight, leaning against the window with lowered eyes, playing with a dagger in his hands. His features were exquisitely beautiful – who else but Xiao Shao?

Liu Min suddenly recalled some past events. He had seen Xiao Shao before. When first entering court service, he had already heard various accounts of Xiao Shao from others. He naturally knew the Jinying Prince’s mansion was a family of rebels and traitors. Later seeing Jiang Ruan become entangled with Xiao Shao, he had even advised Jiang Ruan, hoping she wouldn’t get herself involved. In fact, his words had no effect whatsoever, and even then he could clearly see that Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao had a deep relationship – they were probably old acquaintances already.

Regarding Xiao Shao, Liu Min always harbored complex emotions. He knew the Emperor trusted this person, yet also had some doubts about him. But later seeing Xiao Shao’s genuine care for Jiang Ruan, his unwillingness gradually dissipated. Even so, before this young man, he still felt awkward – the embarrassment of facing a victor.

Xiao Shao didn’t look toward Liu Min, focusing on playing with the dagger in his hands as if only concentrating on this task. But looking carefully, it seemed he wasn’t really looking at the dagger – his eyes held nothing.

Qi Feng coughed lightly, interrupting Liu Min’s gaze, and smiled, “Tutor Liu, please sit.”

Liu Min collected his thoughts. Seeing Qi Feng had no intention of calling Xiao Shao, he understood this was just a conversation between the two of them. At least he wouldn’t have to directly communicate with Xiao Shao, and somehow felt relieved. He sat down and looked up at the purple-robed man, “You called me here?”

“Indeed.” Qi Feng smiled slightly, picking up the teapot to pour Liu Min tea. “No need to be surprised. Mo Cong probably told you – calling Tutor Liu here, to be honest, we have a favor to ask.” He paused before continuing, “And this matter was specifically requested by our Third Sister-in-law.”

Liu Min’s expression remained unchanged, but inwardly he couldn’t help being surprised. Though he wasn’t very familiar with Qi Feng, he knew this person was as unremarkable in court as his position suggested. Such a person, lacking even the power to influence the overall situation, naturally wouldn’t catch the attention of those vying for succession. Who knew that now Qi Feng’s statement not only revealed his relationship with Mo Cong and the Jinying Prince’s mansion, but also conveyed that Qi Feng himself was no simple person.

Such a complex person, present in court yet making no moves for years, content with a middling position – could there be some purpose behind this? Liu Min wasn’t a bookworm who only read. He had heard of past usurpations and couldn’t help but suspect… Could it be that Xiao Shao wanted to establish himself as king?

The Jinying Prince’s mansion had always been known for rebels and traitors. If he established himself as king, it wouldn’t betray that reputation. But if this were true, Liu Min had already decided – even for Jiang Ruan’s sake, he would never assist tyranny or become an accomplice to usurpation.

Seeing Liu Min’s expression growing increasingly grim, Qi Feng seemed to guess his thoughts and smiled, “Does Tutor Liu know the current situation in court?” Without waiting for Liu Min to respond, he continued, “His Majesty’s sudden death, the Empress Dowager’s advanced age – the nation cannot be without a ruler for a day. The master of this realm will eventually take his position. Currently there are only two princes – the Eighth Prince and Thirteenth Prince. These two are evenly matched.”

Liu Min said coldly, “What are you trying to say?” Qi Feng’s words clearly intended to discuss the Great Jin Dynasty’s ruler – treasonous talk. Liu Min could almost certainly predict that Qi Feng’s next words would relate to succession struggles. Thinking this, he glanced again at Xiao Shao by the window, anger rising in his heart. How could Xiao Shao think this way? Had he considered where this would place Jiang Ruan? Beautiful women living in this world easily attracted trouble with one careless step. Previously Jiang Ruan had gained a reputation for climbing high branches because of Xiao Shao. Now with Xiao Shao acting this way, did he want that woman to be reviled as a nation-destroying seductress? Having married someone, why not carefully protect her instead of ruining her this way?

Qi Feng smiled slightly, “I want to know Tutor Liu’s opinion. Between the Thirteenth Prince and Eighth Prince, in Tutor Liu’s view, who is suitable to be the Great Jin Dynasty’s future heir?”

Liu Min replied, “This matter is not for me to discuss.” How could imperial succession be his place to speak? Moreover, Liu Min was now fully wary of Qi Feng, carefully considering every word Qi Feng said.

“Tutor Liu is straightforward, but given Tutor Liu’s status and position, being neutral wouldn’t be difficult. But among worldly people, who with talent doesn’t hope to achieve great deeds? As a minister, assisting the ruler is duty and lifelong aspiration. Has Tutor Liu never thought of assisting an emperor, watching the realm grow more prosperous day by day alongside the emperor, doing more for the people?”

Qi Feng’s eloquence had always been excellent, especially in persuading people based on their thoughts. Liu Min was brilliantly talented. Though he had the late Emperor’s favor, the tutor position ultimately held no real power – he couldn’t make decisions regarding state affairs. Liu Min originally entered court service hoping to use his own strength to change the injustices he saw. But now it seemed he hadn’t achieved his original intentions at all. Rather than a promise, Qi Feng’s words were a reminder – had he achieved those four words: “never forget your original intention”?

Liu Min said, “So what? The realm’s rivers and mountains should follow their natural course. Even His Majesty’s decisions aren’t mine alone to influence. As for assisting rulers, regardless of my position, I will always worry about the court.”

“Well said,” Qi Feng laughed heartily. “Since Tutor Liu has such aspirations, you naturally should have opinions about who would best hold this realm. Let me ask Tutor Liu – having served as the Thirteenth Prince’s tutor so long, do you feel the Thirteenth Prince is worthy of this great responsibility?”

Liu Min had been thinking Qi Feng’s words were just to promote Xiao Shao’s ascension. Mentioning Xuan Pei now was probably just waiting for him to say “too young,” then smoothly bring up Xiao Shao. To prevent Qi Feng’s success, Liu Min immediately said, “Naturally. The Thirteenth Prince is outstanding among men, exceptionally clever with youthful grace. His future will surely be limitless.”

“Excellent,” Qi Feng praised. “I never expected Tutor Liu to share our sentiments. Third Brother, did you hear? This is ‘life’s meetings everywhere, all are destined connections.'” Qi Feng addressed Xiao Shao.

Xiao Shao glanced over indifferently but didn’t respond to Qi Feng’s words. Liu Min, hearing this, was stunned. He hadn’t expected Qi Feng to say this. Shouldn’t he next smoothly mention Xiao Shao? How did he suddenly follow his own words? Liu Min rarely showed confusion, asking suspiciously, “What?”

“Just as Tutor Liu said,” Qi Feng smiled, “we also believe that among the current two princes, the Thirteenth Prince is superior. So I’ve decided to follow the Thirteenth Prince, never betraying him in this life, supporting only him!”

This was somewhat beyond Liu Min’s expectations. He didn’t know what to say, only staring at Qi Feng in bewilderment. Qi Feng suddenly changed his expression, “But now you and I both know the Thirteenth Prince’s position in the palace is truly worrying. Recently he was implicated due to his personal maid’s testimony, and even General Jiang was innocently involved. Tutor Liu is intelligent – even if you don’t trust others, you should believe in General Jiang’s innocence.”

These words struck Liu Min’s heart. While he might still doubt Xuan Pei, the possibility of Jiang Xinzhi plotting to murder the late Emperor was absolutely impossible. When the Great Jin Dynasty sent troops against the Tianjin Kingdom, how Jiang Xinzhi escaped death and led soldiers in brave combat was witnessed by all. This young general had climbed up step by step through his own blood-earned achievements, risking his life. Unlike other scholars, Liu Min didn’t disdain military officers’ crudeness but deeply admired the heroism he could never achieve. In Liu Min’s heart, Jiang Xinzhi was an upright, brave general. Such an honorable general could never poison the late Emperor. Obviously, someone wanted to drag Jiang Xinzhi down.

The purpose of dragging Jiang Xinzhi down was naturally to drag Xuan Pei down too. Who in the palace harbored the greatest hatred for Xuan Pei? Besides Xuan Li, who else? So naturally, Xuan Li was the mastermind. Precisely because of this, Liu Min actually looked down on Xuan Li’s backstabbing behavior. Moreover, he had teacher-student ties with Xuan Pei. Even without today’s meeting, his heart was already on Xuan Pei’s side.

“I believe General Jiang,” Liu Min said. Just one sentence expressed his position.

“The General’s mansion is Third Sister-in-law’s older brother. We naturally trust him too,” Qi Feng smiled. “But now it seems Tutor Liu also stands with the Thirteenth Prince, meaning Tutor Liu and we are the same kind of people.”

Hearing this, Liu Min finally understood completely. These people’s goal wasn’t to promote Xiao Shao’s ascension. They supported only one person – Xuan Pei. Now these people approaching him were doing something very clear to him – drawing him into Xuan Pei’s camp. Liu Min couldn’t help wanting to smile bitterly. Even if he declared his position, what use would it be? What use was drawing him into this camp? He was just a powerless scholar, a tutor without real authority. Even personally pleading Xuan Pei’s case before Empress Dowager Yide, his words would carry no weight. He was useless. These people going to such lengths to recruit him – wasn’t it wasted effort?

“I do indeed stand with the Thirteenth Prince,” Liu Min said, “but regardless of which side I’m on, it’s useless and won’t affect the final outcome. So you’re overthinking. If you’re counting on me to change anything, I apologize.” At the end, Liu Min couldn’t help glancing at Xiao Shao. Though addressed to Qi Feng, these words were really for Xiao Shao. Qi Feng obviously followed Xiao Shao’s lead. Today’s recruitment by Qi Feng was actually Xiao Shao’s intention. Liu Min felt somewhat uncomfortable, but what he said was indeed fact.

“No,” Qi Feng said, “you’re wrong. Tutor Liu truly underestimates yourself. Not only are you not useless – on the contrary, your role is enormous. Without you, this matter would be difficult to accomplish. If the Thirteenth Prince truly takes charge of the realm in future, without you, great undertakings would be hard to entrust.”

Hearing this, Liu Min couldn’t help showing surprise. Qi Feng’s words were truly shocking, but he really couldn’t imagine what else he could do. He couldn’t help saying to Qi Feng, “I’m just a tutor…”

“Before being a tutor, you are first a scholar,” Qi Feng said solemnly. “In worldly affairs, all things can be blocked except heart and words. Before becoming tutor, Tutor Liu was a scholar – the top scholar. Originally, one essay caught His Majesty’s favor, and countless scholars throughout the realm take you as their model. You are the standard in scholars’ hearts. Tutor Liu may not realize it yourself, but while a tutor may count for little in court, in scholars’ hearts you carry more weight than any prime minister or great official, because you are their exemplar.”

Liu Min was stunned. No one had ever said such things to him. Originally studying hard in bitter poverty was just to change his own circumstances and those of people like him. Later, when he truly excelled in scholarship, he discovered everything wasn’t as simple as he’d imagined. He could change his own life, but with thousands upon thousands of people in the world, how could he be their savior? He could do nothing – just an emperor’s teacher. But this Qi Feng said he was the standard in all scholars’ hearts? This… how absurd?

“Just as military officers worship Guan Yu, if there’s no Guan Yu in this world, they naturally worship the most prestigious contemporary figure. Tutor Liu, throughout the Great Jin Dynasty’s history, how many top scholars have there been? But which one advanced as rapidly as you, coming from poverty yet gaining His Majesty’s favor? In your eyes, this may not be praiseworthy, but you must know what you possess – some people can never obtain in their entire lives. What you have is enough to make many extremely envious.”

Liu Min said nothing, gradually beginning to accept Qi Feng’s words. Qi Feng smiled slightly, suddenly standing up and bowing properly to Liu Min, “Tutor Liu, the task we’re asking you to undertake can greatly change the realm’s situation, broadly saving countless people. You must use your scholar’s power to change this current intricate chess game. What you’ll do is far greater than you imagine. Are you willing… do you dare?”

Qi Feng’s expression was solemn. Even Liu Min felt Qi Feng’s seriousness, his heart involuntarily sinking. For Qi Feng to bow so formally, this matter must be extremely important. Qi Feng’s words seemed to touch something in Liu Min’s heart – in his youth, he had also envisioned someday being spirited and high-spirited. Passion had been worn away day by day in official life. Now with an opportunity to fulfill his youthful dreams, Liu Min felt somewhat cold on the surface, but his blood burned hot beneath, almost pointing to one answer.

He slowly stood up, returning Qi Feng’s bow, saying softly, “Naturally.”

Xiao Shao had somehow already turned around. His dagger was put away in his sleeve, now standing with hands behind his back, quietly watching Liu Min. Qi Feng slowly reached into his robes, taking out something and presenting it to Liu Min with both hands. He said nothing. Liu Min was slightly stunned, looking down with a great shock at the feel of this object… He opened the item in his hands with disbelief, his hands trembling slightly. When fully unfolded and seeing the complete form of what he held, he couldn’t help crying out, “How could this be…”

He suddenly understood Qi Feng’s meaning and why Qi Feng said he had such great power. Indeed, this item in anyone else’s hands wouldn’t have as great an effect as in his. But… how could this be? He looked at Qi Feng and the black-robed youth behind him with shock and suspicion. Neither said anything – Qi Feng’s eyes held entrustment, while Xiao Shao’s expression remained as always, indifferent, as if nothing in the world could enter his sight.

“Tutor Liu, we trouble you,” Qi Feng said gravely.

After long bewilderment, Liu Min finally recovered and couldn’t help asking, “This matter – was it arranged by her?”

This “her” naturally referred to Princess Jinying, Jiang Ruan. Both Xiao Shao and Qi Feng understood. Xiao Shao remained silent while Qi Feng smiled helplessly, “Indeed.”

Liu Min closed his eyes. She was truly audacious beyond measure. So everything was within her control. This way, her current uncertain fate should just be an act – she should be safe. She was so clever… Liu Min felt relieved, somehow feeling no sense of being deceived at this moment. He just felt somewhat emotional – this woman had such wisdom and great intelligence, quietly manipulating the entire nation in her palm. What a pity… someone else got there first.

Liu Min put away his wandering thoughts, holding the object with both hands and nodding to Qi Feng, “I will do my utmost.”

“Thank you.” Qi Feng smiled slightly, glancing outside the window. “This place isn’t suitable for long stays. Please return home first, Tutor Liu. This item will remain here temporarily. When the time is right, it will naturally be personally delivered. For the rest, Tutor Liu is intelligent and knows what to do – we won’t interfere.”

Liu Min nodded again. Qi Feng knocked on the table, and Mo Cong, who had been eavesdropping outside for a long time, immediately burst through the door, grinning at Liu Min, “Nothing to worry about. I’ll escort Tutor Liu downstairs and arrange some hidden guards to protect Tutor Liu’s safety.”

After Mo Cong and Liu Min left, Qi Feng sighed. The confident expression from moments before instantly vanished without trace. Xiao Shao walked to the table and sat down. Qi Feng looked at him, “Dealing with that man is truly exhausting. I was really afraid he’d refuse just now.”

No matter how calm he appeared on the surface, only Qi Feng knew how difficult it was to persuade a stubborn person. But unexpectedly Liu Min had agreed so readily. Qi Feng was also faintly surprised – if not for trusting this tutor’s character, he might truly suspect some conspiracy.

Xiao Shao looked down at the tea cup before him without speaking. Qi Feng observed, thought for a moment, then suddenly said, “You’re jealous, aren’t you? You’re sulking, aren’t you? That Tutor Liu was so agreeable today probably for Third Sister-in-law’s sake. What, are you unhappy about Third Sister-in-law too?”

Xiao Shao was fundamentally a strong-willed man. Anyone seeing their wife being thought of by a strange man wouldn’t feel good, especially someone with such possessiveness as Xiao Shao. After the serious discussion, Qi Feng couldn’t help feeling mischievous, wanting to tease Xiao Shao – who told him to always keep a cold face? This period had been hard enough already, and the pressure was enormous.

“Too many words,” Xiao Shao quietly reprimanded.