Though Xie Jingxing had been gone for just a short ten days or so, time seemed to pass much more slowly than when he was present. It was still the same Prince Rui Mansion, yet somehow everything felt different.

Some of the Moyu Army soldiers had remained at the Prince Rui Mansion to protect its safety. Tieyi had left with Xie Jingxing. And Gaoyang too—Madam Ji had not intended to let Ji Yushu go, after all, the Ji family had only this one heir. Who knew that Ji Yushu, with his carefree nature, would leave a letter behind and sneak into the expedition army. By the time Madam Ji discovered this and wanted to pursue him, she was stopped by Master Ji, who said: “Ji Yushu has always been reckless and ignorant; letting him temper his resolve would be good.”

And so in the vast Longyi, almost all the people who had good relationships with Shen Miao seemed to have disappeared overnight. Gaoyang was gone, and the Gao family had sent his junior disciple to treat Ye Hongguang’s illness. Ye Hongguang still hadn’t awakened, continuing to sleep deeply.

Luo Tan seemed to have grown up a great deal in a single day, no longer spending all her time teasing cats and dogs or wandering the streets. Occasionally, she would pause and show concern about the situation in Mingqi. At first, Luo Tan was conflicted about the war between Daliang and Mingqi, so Shen Miao told her everything that had happened in Mingqi over the years. Including Fu Xiuyi, including Emperor Wenhui, including the suppression of the Luo and Shen families. The more she heard, the more silent Luo Tan became, until finally, she said nothing at all.

Shen Miao didn’t try to persuade her; some things would eventually become clear with time, it was just a matter of sooner or later.

Days passed peacefully. The common people of Longyi city showed no signs of panic. Perhaps they had great confidence in their expedition forces, or perhaps they were so accustomed to years of peace and prosperity that they had no real impression of war and therefore felt no fear.

Shen Miao now had excellent relationships with the noble ladies of Longyi. This was certainly the result of her deliberate cultivation of these connections, and those ladies were also very clever. The royal family’s greatest threats, the Lu and Ye families, had already disappeared from the world. Now Daliang was ruled by the royal family, and the Prince Rui Mansion was also royal kin. With Shen Miao on good terms with Empress Xiande, naturally, they rushed to curry favor with her.

Speaking of Empress Xiande, Shen Miao often went to the palace to visit her these days. Shen Miao enjoyed talking with Empress Xiande, who was a talented woman. In her previous life, Shen Miao had also broadened her horizons through being an empress. The two women discussed everything from interesting anecdotes to the current world situation, and their opinions were surprisingly compatible. Empress Xiande also liked her; whenever they started talking, time seemed to pass very quickly.

On this day, Shen Miao was preparing to go out again, planning to enter the palace to see Empress Xiande.

As autumn approached, it felt increasingly cold. Uncle Tang brought in a bowl of sheep’s milk porridge. Perhaps because Xie Jingxing had left, Uncle Tang had been at loose ends all day. Except for occasionally being asked by Shen Miao to handle matters at the shops, he was mostly idle. So he thought of ways to prepare food, saying: “If the master returns and sees that the madam has become thin and haggard, he will surely blame this old servant. Rather, let this old servant prepare some food. If madam eats it, it will be good for her health.”

Jingzhe said, “This sheep’s milk smells so fragrant.”

“We’ve changed to another household’s sheep milk, so the porridge is sweeter and more fragrant,” Uncle Tang said. “After madam finishes this bowl before going to the palace, you’ll feel warm inside and won’t catch a chill on the way.” He glanced outside and said, “The weather has turned cooler these past few days.”

Shen Miao smiled and said, “Thank you, Uncle Tang.” She picked up the bowl and took a sip.

After just one sip, she felt a churning in her stomach and nearly vomited. She quickly put down the bowl, covered her mouth, and frowned.

Guyu and Jingzhe were both startled, and Uncle Tang hurriedly asked, “What’s wrong, madam?”

Shen Miao shook her head: “I probably caught a chill last night, and now the sheep’s milk smells fishy to me. I can’t eat it, so I won’t drink it.”

“In that case,” Uncle Tang pondered, “I’ll have someone fetch some medicine later. Madam should not drink the sheep porridge for now, to avoid feeling unwell. Later, I’ll have the kitchen prepare some light soup.”

Shen Miao nodded and picked up her cloak, saying to Jingzhe and Guyu: “Let’s go.”

Mo Qing and Cong Yang had already prepared the carriage outside. The two of them had not followed Xie Jingxing to Mingqi. Longyi was not completely safe from now on, and the two men were skilled in martial arts and useful to Shen Miao, so they remained in Longyi to carry out her orders.

Upon entering the palace, Empress Xiande was waiting for her in Weiyang Palace and smiled: “You’ve come a bit late today.”

“There was a bit of trouble before I left,” Shen Miao smiled, then asked, “Has His Majesty’s health improved these days?”

“Not bad, yesterday he strolled through the garden with me. But…” Empress Xiande gave a bitter smile, “Perhaps he was deceiving me, who knows, he always likes to deceive me, never telling me when something is wrong.”

Shen Miao paused, then advised her: “His Majesty is just afraid you’ll worry, hoping Your Highness won’t be concerned. He has you in his heart.”

“Perhaps,” Empress Xiande smiled. “Let’s not talk about this anymore. I received some new tea leaves yesterday, and the kitchen made osmanthus cakes. Ancient texts record that scholars of previous dynasties put tea leaves in osmanthus cakes to capture the tea’s fragrance, to be eaten with tea, calling it ‘tea food.’ I thought it was nice, and knowing you were coming today, I had the imperial kitchen make some. If the Emperor knew, he’d probably laugh at me, so I can only brazenly seek your company.”

“Your Highness truly honors this humble wife,” Shen Miao smiled. “This wife comes from a military family, traditionally unrefined. I know nothing of these elegant matters.”

“Stop that,” Empress Xiande reproached playfully. “Even those self-proclaimed learned scholars in Longyi don’t have your level of knowledge. If you call yourself unrefined, wouldn’t that be mocking all the court officials in Longyi?” She handed the teacup to Shen Miao: “Quickly try it first, how is it?”

Empress Xiande enjoyed brewing tea. She liked watching tea leaves boil in water, the temperature had to be just right, neither too hot nor too cool. The timing also had to be perfect, and as for which tea leaves, which spring water, which honey to use—these were all matters of skill. Despite being an empress, she didn’t seem to find these trivial things tedious at all. Perhaps it was precisely because of this that her temperament had been tempered to be so gentle. Shen Miao enjoyed being with Empress Xiande because of that peaceful quality that made one feel that the years were quiet and time was long.

Shen Miao said: “I respectfully obey.” She picked up the tea and took a sip. The tea was very fragrant, with a rich aroma and slight bitterness, but with a sweet aftertaste. Shen Miao was about to speak when she suddenly felt nauseous again. Her hand trembled, and half a cup of tea spilled. She covered her mouth and dry-heaved once.

Empress Xiande was startled and quickly took the tea from her hand. Seeing her poor complexion, she asked: “What’s wrong? Are you feeling unwell somewhere?”

Shen Miao felt the churning in her stomach subside a little, then shook her head and said: “It’s nothing. I apologize, Your Highness. I’m truly sorry, I think I’ve caught a cold recently, and I keep feeling uncomfortable in my stomach. Today when I was leaving home, I still…” Her voice suddenly stopped, and a look of disbelief came over her face.

Empress Xiande didn’t understand at first, but after seeing Shen Miao’s expression, she seemed to realize something and exclaimed in shock: “You’re not…?”

Shen Miao clenched her fist, then quickly released it, saying: “This humble wife doesn’t know either.”

“Quick, call the imperial physician!” Empress Xiande stood up with some excitement and called to Tao Guniang: “Take my token and summon the imperial physician here!”

Shen Miao looked at the tea on the table, her heart shocked.

She had been pregnant before, so she should know whether she might be pregnant now, but it wasn’t clear. Since Xie Jingxing had only been gone for a dozen or so days, and her monthly cycle had never been very regular, she hadn’t paid attention to it. She had just thought she’d caught a cold, but now, thinking about it, her appetite had indeed become a bit strange lately.

But she still wasn’t certain.

Shen Miao’s heart was also somewhat excited. The word “child” was too distant for her. She was somewhat afraid, afraid that when the child came into the world, it would face the sorrows and joys of human life, and she might not be omnipotent, unable to protect them completely. On the other hand, she deeply longed for the child’s arrival.

If it came, it would be the best gift heaven could send her in this life.

The imperial physician quickly hurried over. Empress Xiande seemed even more excited than Shen Miao, instructing the physician to check Shen Miao’s pulse immediately.

The white-bearded physician took Shen Miao’s pulse, thought deeply for a long time, then stood up, bowed deeply to Shen Miao, then to Empress Xiande, and smiled: “Congratulations, Princess Consort, your pulse runs like beads, it’s the pulse of pregnancy. I fear the Princess Consort has been with child for over a month. The Prince’s Mansion will have a new addition!”

Shen Miao still couldn’t quite believe it and asked: “Really?”

Empress Xiande rarely saw Shen Miao so confused and couldn’t help but laugh. She pretended to be stern and said, “The Princess Consort is asking you, is it true? If there’s any mistake, there will be severe punishment!”

The white-bearded imperial physician smiled and said: “This old minister wouldn’t dare lie. If the Princess Consort doesn’t believe me, she can invite several others to examine her.”

Though this was said in jest, Shen Miao replied: “Good, then please trouble yourself to invite several more to examine me.”

This surprised the physician tremendously.

Empress Xiande was delighted, knowing that Shen Miao didn’t believe it and wanted repeated confirmation. Though when she had been pregnant, she had also been similarly disbelieving. Thinking of herself, her gaze dimmed briefly, but she quickly recovered and smiled: “Then let’s do as the Princess Consort says, and invite several more imperial physicians.”

Empress Xiande truly took good care of Shen Miao, and indeed invited several imperial physicians to check her pulse. The results were all identical—Shen Miao was indeed over a month pregnant.

This was truly a coincidence. Xie Jingxing had just left, and after only a dozen or so days, Shen Miao had become pregnant. At least she wouldn’t be so lonely when alone now, though, it might also make her lonelier.

Empress Xiande was overjoyed. Perhaps in the entire royal family, there were only Emperor Yongle and Xie Jingxing, the two brothers. Emperor Yongle had no children, and the Xie family had no younger generation. The child Shen Miao was carrying would be the first of the younger generation in the Xie family. Empress Xiande had Emperor Yongle summoned as well.

When Emperor Yongle heard this news, he too was somewhat incredulous. Empress Xiande smiled and said: “Just think, in the future there will be a little boy or little girl calling you Imperial Uncle and me Imperial Aunt. Isn’t that interesting?”

“What’s interesting about that?” Emperor Yongle was still somewhat uncomfortable. He couldn’t be said to like Shen Miao, because she had quarreled with Xie Jingxing. But Emperor Yongle had never been able to change Xie Jingxing’s mind and could do nothing about him, so he harbored somewhat of an attitude toward Shen Miao as a beautiful troublemaker.

“You,” Empress Xiande looked at him, “this is considered a joyous occasion for our royal family. It would be wonderful if the Princess Consort gave birth to several more in the future. The Prince’s Mansion would be lively and bustling, how nice.” There was a trace of envy in her eyes; clearly, Empress Xiande was also very fond of children.

The envy in Empress Xiande’s words was obvious to anyone, and Shen Miao did pause briefly. Emperor Yongle’s gaze flashed with a hint of grief. After a moment, he finally said: “You will pack your things tonight and move into the palace. This matter cannot be made public; the palace can protect you completely. Right now, not even a minor mishap can be allowed to happen. And this must be kept secret, not to be known by outsiders. As for Jingxing, private messages…”

“Empress,” Shen Miao suddenly spoke up, “this humble wife has one request.”

Empress Xiande said: “Speak.”

“Please keep this from His Highness for now,” she said. “His Highness is currently on a military campaign. If he learns of this, he will inevitably be distracted. If ill-intentioned people take advantage of this, they might exploit a weakness. Better to keep it from him.”

Empress Xiande and Emperor Yongle exchanged a glance. Empress Xiande said, “Your thinking is not wrong. But Princess Consort, if you refuse to tell Jingxing, you will have to bear all the joys and sorrows of this child alone. We don’t know when Jingxing will return, and you will have to endure a long period of solitude. I have seen many women who, for various reasons, kept their pregnancy secret, but the process was extremely difficult. Can you endure this hardship?”

“This humble wife does not find it difficult,” Shen Miao smiled slightly, her hands unconsciously moving to her abdomen. Upon learning of her pregnancy, she felt there was another little life breathing with her inside her body. It was truly a wonderful thing. She said: “If the outcome is good, a difficult process is all worthwhile.”

“Good,” the one who spoke was Emperor Yongle. He looked at Shen Miao and said: “Since that’s the case, we won’t tell him.”

Empress Xiande wanted to say something more, but Shen Miao had already nodded slightly to Emperor Yongle, saying: “Thank you, Your Majesty.”

“Since that’s settled, so be it,” Empress Xiande sighed. “However, starting tomorrow, you will move into the palace. I’ll say I want you to keep me company, so those ladies won’t come looking for you every few days to talk, distracting you from taking care of yourself.”

This time, Shen Miao didn’t refuse. Indeed, the Prince Rui Mansion now had only her as a woman, and although there were some guards from the Moyu Army, there would inevitably be people watching with covetous eyes. Conversely, because of the Lu and Ye families’ affairs, the prestige of the royal family was now greater than ever before. Living in the palace would indeed be safer.

For the sake of the child in her womb, Shen Miao didn’t mind her circumstances.

Seeing that she agreed, Empress Xiande immediately instructed Tao Guniang to find the side palace closest to Weiyang Palace and prepare it for Shen Miao’s residence.

Because of this interruption, it was already evening by the time she returned.

Uncle Tang was relieved when he saw her finally return. Luo Tan had also returned from outside and learned about Shen Miao’s pregnancy from Jingzhe and Guyu. They were all surprised and delighted.

Uncle Tang was so happy he didn’t know what to say. Shen Miao told them not to tell Xie Jingxing, saying that this was a critical time in the war, and it would be bad if Xie Jingxing were distracted. Uncle Tang nodded, though in his heart he felt emotional, saying he would go offer incense to Empress Xiao, to let her know this good news too.

Luo Tan was very curious and wanted to touch Shen Miao’s belly, but didn’t dare. Finally, she carefully placed her hand on it, felt for a while, then said disappointedly: “Why can’t I feel any movement?”

“It’s only been a month, what movement would there be?” Shen Miao laughed.

“But,” Luo Tan looked at her, “little cousin, aren’t you going to tell Uncle and Aunt either? If they knew, they would surely be very happy too.”

Shen Miao thought for a moment, then shook her head: “Right now, Father, Mother, and Big Brother are also confronting Fu Xiuyi. At this time, I would be their weakness. If there were a child added, they would be even more constrained. Moreover, Xie Jingxing will eventually reach Mingqi and meet with my parents. If my parents knew, Xie Jingxing would know too.”

Luo Tan thought for a moment and felt this made sense. She said: “Even though they don’t know, I, as an aunt, do know.” She said softly, “Although I don’t know if it’s a little nephew or niece, just thinking about a little meatball makes me feel very fond of it.”

Luo Tan had seemed somewhat subdued these days. She was naturally lively, which had surprised the people of the Prince Rui Mansion. Now she had finally returned to her usual vibrant self.

“This is indeed the biggest joyous event in recent days,” Uncle Tang smiled. “We should celebrate a bit.” Then he slapped his forehead: “I almost forgot, we should pay attention to some foods too. The madam is now nurturing a child, so we can’t make any mistakes. And those staircases and corners, we should wrap them with cloth.”

He was truly nervous beyond measure.

Shen Miao laughed. In her previous life, when she was pregnant with Fu Ming and Wanyu, she had never received such treatment. Even Consort Dong had only perfunctorily asked if she was well and sent some tonics. If the Shen family hadn’t come to care for her, Shen Miao would probably have been in a state of confusion herself.

Now she was calm, but the people of the Prince Rui Mansion were all extremely nervous.

She smiled and said: “There’s no need to go to such trouble. Uncle Tang, you should pack up too. Because I’m pregnant, the Empress wants me to go into the palace. Leave some guards in this mansion, and some other people, but the important ones will come with me to the palace.”

Uncle Tang was startled, then seemed to understand Shen Miao’s meaning and said: “Very well, this old servant will arrange it right away.”

“Little cousin, should I go too?” Luo Tan asked.

“Of course you should.”

“But I… don’t understand palace etiquette. Would that be inappropriate?” Luo Tan asked.

Shen Miao said, “How could it be inappropriate? If you show a few moves of your martial arts, everyone will know you’re skilled in combat and will be cautious around me, making me safer. The safety of me and the child depends on your protection.”

“Little cousin, stop teasing me,” Luo Tan blushed. “But what you say is right, the two of us together is better than one. I’ll go into the palace with you.” She stood up: “I’ll go pack first.”

After Luo Tan left, Shen Miao stood up.

She hadn’t expected to become pregnant at this time, yet somehow felt that everything was destined.

Opening the window, the autumn moon was very bright and gradually forming into a full moon. In a few more days, it will be the Mid-Autumn Festival.

The Mid-Autumn Festival was a time for family reunions, but she was separated from her family by great distances. Neither Xie Jingxing nor Shen Xin and the others were by her side. This year was bound to be a difficult one, but… Shen Miao touched her belly. Because of having a child, because she had become a mother again, she could appreciate the fullness of the moon.

Heaven wouldn’t be cruel to a person forever. At least at this moment, heaven was kind. It had granted Shen Miao a rebirth and had given her a deeply loving man and a brand new life.

What’s past is past; this was an entirely different moonlight.

She softly asked the child in her womb: “Look, you and your father are looking at the same moon.”

…

Shen Miao moved into the imperial palace.

Empress Xiande treated her extremely well, giving her the side palace next to Weiyang Palace. Shen Miao still used her servants, so it wasn’t inconvenient. Normally, Empress Xiande liked to talk with Shen Miao and brew tea. Luo Tan also joined them; Luo Tan was lively, and Empress Xiande liked her too.

Days passed very peacefully. If there was anything unexpected, it was Ye Hongguang.

Ye Hongguang had also been brought into the palace. Because he remained unconscious for so long, one day he unexpectedly woke up, but after waking, his mind was like that of a three-year-old child, knowing nothing. The imperial physicians examined him and believed he had nearly gone mad from too great a shock.

With this, Emperor Yongle became too lazy to manage him. Keeping a fool didn’t cost much rice. Ye Hongguang spent his days catching crickets and chasing butterflies in the garden, extremely happy.

Sometimes when Shen Miao saw his face resembling Fu Ming’s, she felt that Ye Hongguang’s life was just as tragic as Fu Ming’s. Both were born into the wrong families and had wasted their lives.

Empress Xiande saw her somber expression and thought she was upset about Ye Hongguang. She patted Shen Miao’s hand and comforted her: “There’s no need to be sad. This might not be a bad thing. Now that the Ye family is gone, if he were lucid and woke up knowing all this, his heart would be overwhelmed with grief. Even without hatred, he would surely be in unbearable pain. And the Emperor, always thorough in his actions, would certainly not spare his life. Now that he’s like this, although he’s foolish, he doesn’t have to face those sorrowful things. He can live carefree like a child forever—isn’t that good?”

Emperor Yongle had also suspected that Ye Hongguang was pretending to be stupid, but the imperial physicians had examined him, and people had secretly monitored him. Ye Hongguang had truly gone foolish. Moreover, most importantly, he was infirm. Because of this injury, his health had worsened. How long he could live, how many years he had, was unknown.

Perhaps Ye Hongguang’s fate reminded Emperor Yongle of his youth—he too had been poisoned severely in his youth and didn’t know how long he would live. Perhaps this shared experience gave Emperor Yongle a rare sense of compassion, sparing Ye Hongguang’s life.

But Ye Hongguang was now a fool and didn’t know that his life was in the emperor’s hands, that he had already had a brush with death. He still laughed carefree every day.

However, not everyone in the world could live like Ye Hongguang, living like a child, laughing with abandon.

Two months later, Xie Jingxing reached the edge of Mingqi and began to engage with Mingqi’s army. At the same time, the Luo family army and the Shen family army joined forces at Hangu Pass, and the Qin army entered the pass.

Qin and Qi joined hands and formally confronted the Daliang army led by Xie Jingxing.

War is always ruthless; once started, it’s not so easy to end. Moreover, two countries against one were evenly matched.

Shen Miao studied the military defense map she had given to Xie Jingxing every day. At first, nothing seemed apparent, but gradually, signs began to emerge. Like chess pieces following a predetermined path, they were walking step by step into what the opponent had designed.

Shen Miao knew that the military defense map, if she hadn’t guessed wrong, must have reached Fu Xiuyi’s hands.

The battles between Daliang and Qin-Ming saw wins and losses, making it difficult to discern who had the advantage. Xie Jingxing hadn’t swept through armies as he had in her previous life, partly because Qin and Ming hadn’t joined forces then—at that time, Daliang had first attacked Qin, then annihilated Mingqi. But there was another point Shen Miao knew: Xie Jingxing had changed his strategy. He was like a shrewd and cunning hunter, luring his prey into his trap.

To capture all at once, not favoring drawn-out entanglements, clean and decisive—indeed, the style of the Xie family.

Fu Xiuyi was taking the bait. While Shen Miao felt gratified about this, she couldn’t help but admire Ye Mei’s methods. Many things had changed, but she still managed to win Fu Xiuyi’s heart, presenting that military defense map and earning his complete trust.

Sure enough, soon after, Xie Jingxing’s letter arrived in Daliang.

The letter contained information about the situation in Mingqi.

Emperor Wenhui had fallen gravely ill and passed away, and the Ninth Prince Fu Xiuyi had ascended the throne. As soon as Fu Xiuyi took the throne, he established good relations with the Qin Emperor, gaining his support. The two countries jointly launched an offensive against the now declining Daliang. The remaining princes of Mingqi, including Prince Zhou and Prince Jing, had all been imprisoned, demonstrating Fu Xiuyi’s mastery in dealing with his own family.

The Shen and Luo families, along with other old aristocratic families that had been suppressed by Emperor Wenhui, openly rebelled and were labeled “rebels” within Mingqi, though the common people didn’t seem to believe this. The Shen family’s good reputation had existed for many years and was not so easily tarnished.

Xie Jingxing’s men were secretly in contact with the Shen family, and before long, the Shen family would, under the pretext of surrender, form an alliance with Xie Jingxing and officially defect to Daliang.

At the end of the letter, Xie Jingxing casually added a few lines, as if they were just rumors, carelessly added.

It was said that there was now a royal romantic affair circulating in the capital of Dingzhou. A beauty had entered the palace, a distant niece of a royal merchant, as beautiful as a celestial maiden, intelligent and articulate. The new emperor loved her like a jewel, holding her in his palm, bestowing the name Madam Mei. In a short time, her influence far surpassed that of other consorts in the harem.

Shen Miao closed the letter and smiled.

Luo Tan asked: “Little cousin, it’s just a letter, why have you been looking at it for so long and smiling three times?” Suddenly, she looked in another direction: “Hey, how did that cat climb up so high? And climbing so high?”

In the garden not far away, a black cat was climbing up a tree trunk. The higher branches were thinner, seemingly unable to bear the cat’s weight, swaying dangerously.

“The faster and higher one climbs, the quicker and more painful the fall,” Shen Miao smiled. “Just wait and see.”

…

Another half year passed.

Once a war begins, it’s not so easy to call a stop to it. This great war involving three countries was especially so. Today smoke rises here, tomorrow weapons clash there. There were wins and losses, advances and retreats. Qin and Mingqi were almost fighting this battle with their backs to the wall, so they invested heavily.

In comparison, the troops brought by Daliang could even be considered few.

Despite this, the combined forces of Mingqi and Qin couldn’t gain much advantage against Daliang. It seemed like a long war of attrition; Daliang was wearing them down at a steady pace, while Qin and Mingqi’s rhythm began to be gradually disrupted.

Especially recently.

In previous battles, large and small, Qin-Qi had generally won more, especially at the beginning. Almost every engagement yielded some benefit, and while the gains weren’t abundant, they greatly boosted morale. The soldiers of both Qin and Qi were very spirited.

As time went on, the advantage of the two countries became less evident. Although they still had victories, they gradually showed signs of decline.

Until they reached the Thirteen Capitals of Youzhou.

The Thirteen Capitals of Youzhou were located at the borders where Mingqi, Qin, and Daliang met. They had always been Qin territory. As for why they belonged to Qin, one would have to trace back to much earlier times, even to the founding of the nation. For all these years, the Thirteen Capitals of Youzhou had stood steadily at the border, not because Daliang and Mingqi never had designs on them, but because the terrain of the Thirteen Capitals was complex, easy to defend but difficult to attack. If one wanted to capture them, it would require enormous effort, and one misstep could even harm oneself.

Such a tough bone to chew—to attempt it required not only ambition but also great courage.

The Daliang soldiers led by Xie Jingxing were about to launch an attack on the Thirteen Capitals of Youzhou. This battle was crucial, perhaps even the key to determining the entire war. If Xie Jingxing successfully captured the Thirteen Capitals of Youzhou, he could end the campaign in a shorter time, and for Mingqi and Qin, it would be like sweeping away dead trees—surprisingly smooth.

Conversely, if Xie Jingxing couldn’t chew through this bone, it would severely damage the Daliang army. Forget about dealing with Mingqi and Qin—even withstanding the pincer attack from these two countries would be difficult.

So in this battle, whether it was Daliang or Mingqi and Qin, all had wagered the utmost, almost staking their lives and fortunes.

Empress Xiande, while discussing this matter with Shen Miao, also teased her: “After all, it’s your husband leading the troops. How is it that until now, you have not shown the slightest sign of worry?”

Shen Miao smiled slightly: “This humble wife naturally believes in His Highness.” Xie Jingxing was indeed quite cunning. That Ye Mei’s erroneous military defense map could successfully reach Fu Xiuyi’s hands and be trusted by him was certainly her skill. But Xie Jingxing had also played a significant role in this.

At the beginning of the war, Xie Jingxing had consistently won and lost in moderation, giving Fu Xiuyi several tastes of success. Even with those victories, Mingqi and Qin hadn’t gained any substantial advantage, yet it created an illusion that Qin-Qi was very formidable.

Over time, Fu Xiuyi would increasingly trust what Ye Mei had given him. Even though Daliang won several more times later, in Fu Xiuyi’s eyes, these were just coincidences. He overlooked the fact that the battles Xie Jingxing lost were all for unimportant cities, while the few cities he won and held were all extremely important. Looking carefully, it was as if connecting dots into a line, faintly showing signs of a strategic network.

But Fu Xiuyi and the Qin Emperor probably wouldn’t notice this point, because in the recent battles, they had small victories, and the Daliang army’s morale seemed to be gradually declining. They attacked more fiercely, as if wanting to finish off their opponent in one go.

Therefore, Fu Xiuyi placed extraordinary importance on the Thirteen Capitals of Youzhou. Looking at the current war situation compared with the military defense map Shen Miao had drawn herself, Fu Xiuyi seemed to be cautiously arranging his troops according to that map.

There was no news more pleasing than this. The more manpower and resources Fu Xiuyi invested in this, the greater the blow he would eventually receive. Xie Jingxing was like someone enticing a gambler—first letting him win a little money, winning and losing alternately, making the gambler feel that his luck and skill were good. Finally, when the gambler risked everything he had, Xie Jingxing would leisurely close the net, catching everything in one sweep. The gambler would naturally lose everything, with no return on his investment.

Fu Xiuyi had already started to take the bait. As for the Qin Emperor, he was more cautious than Fu Xiuyi and might have other arrangements for the Thirteen Capitals of Youzhou. However, once Fu Xiuyi began to collapse, how Qin fared wouldn’t matter to Xie Jingxing. It was like opening a breach, defeating each separately—the rest would become much easier.

Luo Tan stretched out her hand, carefully covering Shen Miao’s belly, and said: “It’s a pity that news from the Thirteen Capitals of Youzhou can only be received through messages. However, the little one is growing very quickly.”

Shen Miao lowered her head to look at her belly. Eight months had passed so peacefully. It seemed no different from before, even with the smoke of war, she could face it with a calm attitude. This wasn’t just because of her trust in her loved ones, but more because she understood that there was a small life growing with her in her womb.

Because she had become a mother, she was braver and stronger, taking on responsibility and maintaining a steady mind.

Just as she was talking with Empress Xiande, Tao Guniang hurriedly came from outside. She seemed somewhat urgent, but her face couldn’t hide her joy. She smiled and said: “Congratulations, Your Highness, congratulations, Princess Consort. Just now, news arrived from the front court—a victory report from the Thirteen Capitals of Youzhou. His Highness the Prince has won!”

“Really?” Empress Xiande immediately stood up. She was always composed, but now she was slightly flustered.

Tao Guniang nodded vigorously: “His Majesty is very pleased and is issuing a general amnesty.”

“Heaven be praised!” Luo Tan clasped her hands together and murmured.

The capture of the Thirteen Capitals of Youzhou and the arrival of victory news—what did this represent? It meant that this war, which had lasted for more than half a year, might end completely soon. The soldiers would be able to return home, and on the other hand, the chaotic world would finally be unified. The grand ambition might come true soon.

Shen Miao stroked her belly, feeling joy welling up in her heart. She knew Xie Jingxing would succeed.

Then Tao Guniang smiled and looked at Shen Miao: “Princess Consort, don’t worry. The Prince also had a letter sent over. The messenger will deliver it to you shortly.”

“That makes one jealous,” Empress Xiande teased Shen Miao. “He doesn’t send a letter to me and the Emperor, only thinking of his wife. He’s truly taken the name of brother in vain.”

Luo Tan also said: “Yes, indeed, not considering others’ feelings at all.”

“Miss Luo, don’t be disappointed,” Tao Guniang, perhaps in high spirits from the good news, unusually continued the conversation today: “There’s a letter for you too, apparently from the young master of the Gao family.”

Luo Tan was puzzled: “Gaoyang? What kind of letter would he send me?”

Shen Miao and Empress Xiande exchanged a glance and smiled, shaking their heads.

The victory news from the Thirteen Capitals of Youzhou brought joy to all of Longyi. Emperor Yongle even held a palace banquet, something he hadn’t done for a long time, which was extraordinarily lively.

Shen Miao did not participate in this palace banquet.

First, her pregnancy had not been made public. She had been living in the palace, and although there had been speculation outside, Empress Xiande had protected her well. Later, as people’s enthusiasm gradually waned, they no longer inquired. Second, such an occasion as a palace banquet was not suitable for Shen Miao in her current pregnant state. If something went wrong in the middle, it would be even worse.

Besides, she wanted to read Xie Jingxing’s “family letter” earlier.

Xie Jingxing’s “family letters” had rarely arrived since the war situation became tense. Sending a letter was probably troublesome, and it had been two months since he had written to her.

Shen Miao opened the letter.

There wasn’t anything special in it; he just said he was doing well, boasted about his achievements, and incidentally criticized Fu Xiuyi as worthless. He said that apart from his scheming in the succession struggle, Fu Xiuyi was completely chaotic in state governance. The Mingqi court was in such disarray that there was no need to worry too much.

Then he mentioned Madam Mei.

He said Fu Xiuyi held Madam Mei in high esteem. The Mingqi court was discussing how Madam Mei, who previously could only maneuver within the harem, was now, in just a few months, able to freely enter and exit Fu Xiuyi’s study. Fu Xiuyi seemed to view her not just as a beautiful woman, but as a harbinger of fortune. Even several “victorious” battles were attributed to Ye Mei’s blessing.

Ye Mei now had everything she wanted at the Mingqi court, truly regarding no one except Fu Xiuyi. Fu Xiuyi also indulged her, partly because he truly found her beautiful and intelligent, and partly because of Ye Mei’s abilities.

But when Xie Jingxing wrote about these things, his words were full of mockery, treating Fu Xiuyi as a complete fool. He ended with an incredibly arrogant declaration that everything was ready, just waiting for the other side to walk into the trap. After this victory at the Thirteen Capitals of Youzhou, he predicted that in Dingzhou, without him even lifting a finger, Ye Mei would likely be tortured to death by Fu Xiuyi. Fu Xiuyi was not a generous person; having publicly praised Ye Mei as a “bringer of fortune” in front of court officials, now that this “bringer of fortune” had cost him dearly in a crucial battle, how could Fu Xiuyi let it go?

Of course, Xie Jingxing had also arranged some additional intrigue, creating the impression that Ye Mei was a Daliang spy who had approached Fu Xiuyi in Dingzhou specifically to be a pawn for Daliang. Fu Xiuyi, being someone who could not tolerate betrayal, would naturally spare no effort.

Looking at Xie Jingxing’s handwriting, Shen Miao could almost imagine him lazily holding a brush, with a schadenfreude expression.

She folded the letter paper, but felt something else in the envelope. She shook it and turned the envelope upside down. Indeed, two red beans rolled out.

Red beans, the most cherished tokens of longing.

He didn’t write words of longing in his letter, yet insisted on using two red beans to prove that he hadn’t forgotten Shen Miao for a moment. It was hard to say whether this was dignified or childish.

Shen Miao thought for a moment, then took out her fragrance pouch and carefully placed the two red beans inside.

“The fifth letter,” she said.

…

Mingqi, Dingzhou, Imperial Palace.

In the gloomy dungeon, the stench of blood permeated everywhere, seemingly mixed with other odors, making one nauseous.

At the innermost part of the prison, a woman sat naked on the ground. Her hands were shackled to the wall, her feet soaking in cold, filthy water filled with fat rats that occasionally crawled up and down her feet, gnawing on her toes. Some toes had already been gnawed to a bloody mess, but the scent of blood seemed to attract those starving rats, making them gnaw even more vigorously.

Watching one’s body being eaten by rats—not just for a woman, but even for a man—would cause heart palpitations. Yet this woman made no sound. Only she knew that it wasn’t that she didn’t want to scream; her throat was almost hoarse, and screaming would only bring deeper torture.

This woman was none other than Ye Mei.

In just a few days, it was as if she had fallen from heaven to hell. Ye Mei had never imagined that she would have such a day where she wished for death rather than life. Nor had she imagined that Fu Xiuyi could be such a heartless person.

She only knew that the battle for the Thirteen Capitals of Youzhou had been lost, and she already felt something was wrong. But she thought that with her wisdom, it might not yet be the worst situation; perhaps she could still stabilize Fu Xiuyi. But Fu Xiuyi hadn’t given her a chance at all. His cruelty was terrifying—he had Ye Mei arrested in front of the harem consorts and thrown into the dungeon.

Then he tortured her severely until today, forcing her to reveal what other tasks Daliang had assigned her.

Ye Mei still didn’t know what had happened. She hoped she could explain. But her beauty was no longer her weapon this time, because on the first day she entered the dungeon, Fu Xiuyi, with utter disgust, had someone burn her cheeks with red-hot irons.

One of her eyes had even been burned, and without a doctor’s treatment in the dungeon, it had gone blind.

Ye Mei had never been afraid. She wasn’t afraid of desperate environments, nor of how bad the situation might be. Even when trampled by others, she could be vibrant and tenacious like wild grass. The only thing she feared was losing her beauty, for that was her only eternal weapon.

This weapon had been invincible. With it, she could survive in desperate environments, reverse bad situations, step on those who trampled her, and live with ease. But once her beauty was destroyed, she lost the bond that allowed her to manipulate others, and things became hopeless.

She indeed felt despair, even losing her fighting spirit, feeling that no matter what sounds she made as rats gnawed on her toes, nothing would change.

A blind woman with burned cheeks—she could imagine how horrifying she looked now. She could seduce men to disregard their lives; the world never lacked such people. A flower on a cliff—even at the cost of life, men would want to pluck it. But now the flower had become a weed, even a weed with scabs. Who would risk their life to pluck it?

Fu Xiuyi was truly ruthless. After being infatuated with Ye Mei for so many days, perhaps understanding Ye Mei’s ability to bewitch people, he simply ended it thoroughly, directly destroying Ye Mei’s beauty, making her incapable of doing anything.

Ye Mei was filled with hatred!

From outside came the “pat-pat” sound of footsteps, echoing especially clearly in the empty dungeon.

She turned her neck with some effort, using her one remaining eye to look outside.

Fu Xiuyi stood outside.

He coldly said: “Ye Mei, the Emperor gives you one last chance. Tell everything you know.”

“What does this concubine know?” Ye Mei asked. She still referred to herself as “this concubine,” as if to prove she was still Fu Xiuyi’s favored consort, swimming freely in Mingqi’s harem.

Fu Xiuyi frowned with disgust, seemingly nauseated by her ugly appearance, and turned his head away: “The Emperor has already discovered everything. Since you are a Daliang spy, you must have channels to communicate with them!”

Ye Mei burst out laughing.

Her laugh was hoarse, no longer the melodious sound of the past, but rather quite harsh. She didn’t know why Fu Xiuyi would call her a spy; perhaps he just needed a reason for his failure. He had deployed his troops incorrectly but wanted to pin all the blame on her.

She said: “Your Majesty doesn’t believe anything this concubine says. So if this concubine reveals the channels, will Your Majesty believe it or not? Or does Your Majesty think this is also this concubine’s lie?”

“Tell me, and the Emperor will grant you an intact corpse,” Fu Xiuyi said coldly.

Ye Mei laughed. Now when she laughed, her appearance was terrifying, resembling a vengeful ghost. She still didn’t realize this herself and continued to act coquettishly, saying: “Your Majesty’s offer is too poor. What kind of condition is granting an intact corpse? If Your Majesty would spare this concubine’s life and find a way to heal the wounds on this concubine’s face, this concubine might consider telling everything she knows.”

Fu Xiuyi didn’t get angry but smiled: “Those who have betrayed the Emperor have never lived!”

“So Your Majesty simply ruined this concubine?” Ye Mei said. “I heard that once the Prince Rui Consort also deeply loved Your Majesty, pursuing endlessly, but unfortunately, Your Majesty was as cold as ice to her, and later it came to nothing.”

Now Fu Xiuyi knew Xie Jingxing’s identity, and naturally, he also knew Shen Miao’s identity. At the mention of Shen Miao, Fu Xiuyi’s face darkened further. In his life, he was accustomed to having everything within his grasp. But Shen Miao had been the exception. He had thought he could use Shen Miao’s adoration for him to control the Shen family, but Shen Miao had gone astray. He hadn’t captured the Shen family and had gone through a big detour. Now the Shen family was even opposing him, giving him a headache. Beyond that, Shen Miao had given up on him and turned to someone who seemed better, almost slapping Fu Xiuyi’s face in front of the world. Fu Xiuyi was extremely angry, and hearing Ye Mei mention this now struck a painful spot for him.

“I originally thought that the Prince Rui Consort was just a bit luckier, with a better background, and had stumbled into becoming a princess consort, living an enviable life. Now it seems she was smarter than I imagined. Perhaps she already knew that staying by Your Majesty’s side, whether loyal to Your Majesty or not, would eventually have the same outcome—a bad end,” Ye Mei said.

“Insolent!” Fu Xiuyi exclaimed.

“I have lost to Your Majesty,” Ye Mei said. “Not long ago, Your Majesty was still infatuated with me, yet now can personally reduce me to this state. Knowing how precious beauty is to me, yet making me wish for death. But Your Majesty, let me tell you, you won’t fare any better! You push all your mistakes onto me. Do you think you will have a good ending?”

Fu Xiuyi’s face turned ashen. No one would be happy being cursed like this. Moreover, he already despised Ye Mei intensely, hating her to the bone. Ye Mei provoking him at this time made him even angrier.

“You won’t have a good ending either; you’re no match for them. When Shen Miao chose Xie Jingxing over you, it proved that in her eyes, you weren’t even one percent of Xie Jingxing. So you see, now I have nothing, reduced to a prisoner, but your fate will be no better than mine. You will also lose. The Thirteen Capitals of Youzhou are just the beginning. After that, you will be utterly defeated, and this Mingqi dynasty will eventually perish in your hands. When that time comes, you will just be a ruler of a fallen nation! I wish you: may your military be defeated like a collapsing mountain, may your Fu family dynasty end with your hands, never to rise again for a hundred generations!”

Fu Xiuyi stared at her coldly and said: “Have you finished? The Emperor has already given you your last chance.”

Ye Mei took a long breath and didn’t speak.

She had been holding a breath of resentment in her heart. She had never hated someone as much as she did now. Fu Xiuyi had destroyed her beauty. Knowing she had no hope of recovery, she simply poured out all her anger and hatred on the verge of death. But after the momentary release, she came to her senses. She had almost forgotten what kind of person Fu Xiuyi was…

But it was too late for regret now. Besides, Fu Xiuyi was never one to give people a chance to regret. Years ago, Pei Lang had never caused him to lose anything, yet he treated him thus. And because of Ye Mei, he had lost the Thirteen Capitals of Youzhou. After hearing Ye Mei’s curse, Fu Xiuyi would certainly not let her die easily.

He said: “Since you care so much about your appearance, the Emperor will fulfill your wish.”

He instructed the jailer beside him: “Cut off her four limbs, make her into a ‘beauty basin,’ set up a stage at the east of the city, and let thousands admire her.”

“A Daliang spy, so skilled in singing and dancing and performing arts, the Emperor bestows upon you the role of being an object of amusement. Enjoy a lifetime of beauty,” he said. After saying this, he turned and strode away, disregarding the heart-wrenching wails behind him.

The “beauty basin” was a form of amusement for nobles in the previous dynasty. Beautiful people were selected and kept in homes, usually kneeling in a corner of the room. When the master wanted to spit or dispose of used tea, they would pinch the beauty’s chin, making them receive and swallow it. It was essentially a living spittoon.

This treated humans like animals, even worse than animals. Because it was too cruel, and because such beauties generally didn’t live long, the previous emperor had ordered it abolished.

Now Fu Xiuyi was bringing back this abolished practice to use on Ye Mei. And a beauty basin with four limbs cut off was the lowest form, having lost its aesthetic quality, leaving only horror.

Common people feared such eerie things and would surely condemn and curse them. For Ye Mei, who valued her appearance more than life out of vanity, this was a more severe torture than killing her. For someone who had always aspired to climb higher, being lower than the commoners she despised, not even being considered “human,” showed that Fu Xiuyi truly understood her.

So in dealing with her, he struck where it hurt most, right at her core.

The once-famous Madam Mei, respected in both the front and back courts, was gone just like that. Her appearance, rise, and fall were all too rapid, leaving behind only the fame of stunning beauty and being a Daliang spy.

But what about Fu Xiuyi?

Ye Mei’s curse continued to come true.

Even though he pushed the blame onto Ye Mei, the people of the world still watched him like a joke. Having a spy by his side, being an emperor yet indulging in beauty without recognizing it, and even losing the Thirteen Capitals of Youzhou because of it. The reputation of “foolish ruler” had gradually begun to spread among the common people.

The people couldn’t see the process; they only saw the results.

Fu Xiuyi had become a complete laughingstock. Worse still, as everyone had predicted, since Daliang took the Thirteen Capitals of Youzhou, they fought with increasing vigor, frequently achieving victory after victory. Mingqi retreated continuously, a pitiful sight, as if the previous victories had been an illusion. Daliang’s strength was terrifyingly strong.

When it rains, it pours. At this time, Qin began to take a self-preservation path, seemingly intending to surrender and submit to Daliang. Daliang’s spearhead was now aimed solely at Mingqi, and Fu Xiuyi was in a state of frustration every day.

It was utterly disastrous.

…

The war situation was always rapidly changing.

Daliang had captured the Thirteen Capitals of Youzhou and, using them as a base, began a counterattack. They chose not to confront Qin but to strike at Mingqi first.

As expected, when Daliang launched its attack against Mingqi, Qin began to choose self-preservation, even sending envoys to try to negotiate. They were willing to cede territory and pay reparations as compensation. Qin had always been weaker in military matters, and the prolonged war had already emptied the national treasury. Taxation burdened the people, causing them to gradually develop unrest.

Qin recognized the severity—compared to national destruction, ceding territory and paying reparations was nothing.

Qin’s choosing to abandon the fight at this time was clearly not good news for Mingqi. But no matter how Fu Xiuyi tried, both with soft and hard approaches, Qin wouldn’t respond.

This was, of course, also due to Xie Jingxing’s merit. He painted a picture for Qin, making the Qin Emperor believe that Daliang truly didn’t have extra energy to deal with Qin and now only wanted to take down Mingqi. Xie Jingxing had executed this flawlessly.

This tactic of divide and conquer, this strategy of sowing discord, was played to perfection by him.

Daliang’s army quickly reached Dingzhou, the capital of Mingqi.

Meanwhile, in Weiyang Palace in Longyi, Empress Xiande was having palace maids pour wine for people.

This was a “palace banquet,” but without court officials or harem consorts. There were only Shen Miao, Luo Tan, Emperor Yongle, and Empress Xiande. Empress Xiande said: “Let’s consider it a family feast, also celebrating Jingxing’s victory from thousands of miles away.”

Once Xie Jingxing captured Dingzhou, Mingqi would truly be settled. Xie Jingxing would naturally not spare Qin; cutting the grass requires removing the roots, and a once-and-for-all solution was the best strategy. Without Mingqi’s support, Qin was just at the end of its strength. Xie Jingxing had delayed the war for so long, only to exert force now, all for this moment.

Before long, this long and cruel war would end. At that time, with peace throughout the land, it would truly fulfill everyone’s wishes.

“Little cousin, drink this,” Luo Tan placed plum juice in front of Shen Miao, resting her chin on her hand as she looked at Shen Miao’s belly, saying: “The imperial physician said that in about two more months, it will be time for delivery. I wonder if it will be a little nephew or a little niece.”

Shen Miao lowered her eyes, the corner of her lips curving upward: “It’s very quiet, probably a little girl.”

“That’s not certain,” Empress Xiande smiled. “There are also quiet boys and lively girls. But when Jingxing returns and discovers he’s a father, who knows what kind of scene he’ll make.”

Shen Miao imagined the scene and couldn’t help but feel a headache. If Xie Jingxing knew she had kept this from him for so long, he would surely throw a tantrum.

But… one step at a time.

As they were talking, Emperor Yongle came in from outside.

Shen Miao and Emperor Yongle didn’t meet often. Emperor Yongle probably still didn’t like her, and his attitude towards her was never very good. However, recently, because of the child in her belly, his attitude had softened considerably. Perhaps it was also due to Empress Xiande’s persuasion. Occasionally, when he obtained some medicinal materials for health, he would have them sent over.

Luo Tan was somewhat afraid of Emperor Yongle and immediately sat up straight.

The four people ate at one table, with Luo Tan feeling a bit embarrassed. Shen Miao was fine, Emperor Yongle had a cold expression, and only Empress Xiande was the happiest. She said: “Jingxing has truly achieved great merit this time. When he returns in triumph, he should be well rewarded. I think we should give the Princess Consort an imperial title. Their prince’s mansion lacks nothing; receiving an imperial title would be good.”

Emperor Yongle paused, then made an “hmm” sound.

Empress Xiande went on to ask: “Do you think it’s good?”

Shen Miao: “…”

How could she answer this? Saying “good” would displease Emperor Yongle. Saying “not good” would be publicly slapping Empress Xiande’s face. This imperial couple was truly interesting, posing such a difficult question to her. Shen Miao smiled and said: “These matters, let’s wait until His Highness returns.”

“Indeed,” Empress Xiande nodded. “He might have his own ideas.” She then looked at Luo Tan: “As for Miss Luo, when Gaoyang returns, shall we arrange a marriage for you two?”

Luo Tan almost choked on the pastry in her mouth. If it had been someone else, she would have already refused, but since it was the Empress, she could only look pitifully at Shen Miao.

Shen Miao suppressed a smile and said: “Your Highness, there’s no rush for these matters. Let’s wait until Young Master Gao returns. What if he has other ideas?”

Luo Tan, hearing Shen Miao speak on her behalf, had just begun to relax, but after hearing Shen Miao’s words, she felt uncomfortable again. What kind of statement was that? It was as if Gaoyang wouldn’t care for her—she was a beautiful young lady and the daughter of the Luo family from Xiaochun City… wait, why was she making comparisons? She never had those kinds of intentions in the first place.

Emperor Yongle glanced at Empress Xiande and said in a deep voice: “Let’s eat.”

Empress Xiande reproached him: “We already said this is a family feast; be more casual. Why so serious?”

Since Xie Jingxing had been sending frequent victory reports, the court officials had almost all settled down, seemingly recognizing the young emperor’s ambition and methods. The Xie family, though consisting of only these two brothers, had neither of them been easy to deal with. One was skilled at balancing court affairs, while the other excelled at expansion and warfare. With the officials holding the emperor in awe, the court had become much quieter.

Even memorials criticizing Emperor Yongle for having no heir had recently become very few.

Empress Xiande rarely experienced such peaceful days, and her relationship with Emperor Yongle had undergone subtle changes. It seemed that the previously respectful imperial couple had gradually started to become like an ordinary husband and wife. Emperor Yongle was a man of strict principles, and in the past, whatever Empress Xiande did, he would handle it with rigid formality. During this period, Empress Xiande occasionally made some willful moves, and Emperor Yongle indulged her. Though not overly affectionate, it was still quite rare.

They say bystanders see most clearly. Shen Miao felt that Emperor Yongle had deep feelings for Empress Xiande. It seemed that everything was moving in a good direction. When Xie Jingxing returned, perhaps for a very long time, they could continue to be this happy.

Empress Xiande suddenly thought of something and said: “Tomorrow, I want to dig up the two jars of snow wine that I buried under the plum tree last year. Once opened, they should be very fragrant. Your Majesty, come with me, and we can bury this year’s batch as well. Princess Consort and Miss Luo, you come too. After digging them up, we can go to Cuihu Pavilion in the evening to enjoy the lotus flowers and taste the snow wine.”

Luo Tan was fond of delicacies and naturally happily agreed. Shen Miao also nodded. Emperor Yongle seemed somewhat helpless—Empress Xiande was only enthusiastic about brewing tea and making wine. When she was happy, she was like a child. But in the end, he still nodded. Seeing this, Empress Xiande was very satisfied and continued to chat with Shen Miao about interesting matters while eating.

The next day happened to be a sunny day. Summer arrived early in Longyi. Fortunately, it was coolest in the morning, so Shen Miao and Luo Tan went early. Shen Miao, being pregnant, couldn’t help Empress Xiande with the digging. Luo Tan was careless and afraid she might hit a stone and break the jars when moving them, so it was Empress Xiande and Tao Guniang who did the digging.

Emperor Yongle said: “Get up; it’s not good to hurt your hands.”

“In previous years, this concubine and Tao Guniang always dug together,” Empress Xiande said, with shining beads of sweat on her forehead, yet still smiling. “For snow wine, it must be dug up with one’s own hands to be mellow. If Your Majesty is interested in the future, you can personally bury and dig up a batch, then you’ll know the taste.” As she spoke, she and Tao Guniang dug out the other jar as well.

Emperor Yongle suddenly frowned. He paused and inconspicuously pressed his chest.

Empress Xiande picked up one of the jars. The jar was cute and small, not difficult to carry. She didn’t mind the dirt or fear of getting soil on her clothes. Like presenting a treasure, she held it up to Emperor Yongle, removed the stopper, and held it under his nose, asking: “Your Majesty, smell it. Isn’t it fragrant?”

“Very fragrant,” Emperor Yongle said with a frown.

Empress Xiande looked at him: “Does Your Majesty dislike it? Why such an expression? Could it have spoiled?” She suspiciously sniffed the wine herself.

Emperor Yongle smiled slightly and was about to speak when he suddenly felt darkness before his eyes. His step faltered, and he fell headlong!

“Your Majesty!” Empress Xiande was startled. The small jar of snow wine in her hand fell to the ground with a thud, shattering into pieces. The wine mixed with fragments splashed out a rich fragrance, bitter yet lingering.

“Quick, call the imperial physician!” Shen Miao immediately ordered, while a sense of foreboding flashed through her heart.

…

The gauze curtain was lowered. Outside, the head of the Gao family had arrived.

This was Gaoyang’s grandfather, Gao Zhan.

The Gao family had practiced medicine for generations and was quite renowned in Longyi. Among the younger generation of the Gao family, Gaoyang was the most excellent in medical skills, but he was not content to remain in obscurity and wished to enter court service. The head of the Gao family, seeing his stubbornness, simply expelled him from the family. Empress Dowager Jingxian had once lamented Gaoyang’s talent, and later arranged for him to go to Mingqi, where he became good friends with Xie Jingxing and assisted him.

Emperor Yongle’s poison had been diagnosed by Gao Zhan himself. If not for Gao Zhan’s superb medical skills, Emperor Yongle wouldn’t have lived so many years. The curse of thirty-five had already passed, and those in the know considered it a miracle. But miracles aren’t so easily created.

Gao Zhan shook his head at Empress Xiande.

Empress Xiande’s tears fell immediately.

Luo Tan had not come, but Shen Miao was present. Seeing Empress Xiande’s tearful appearance, Shen Miao felt a deep sense of sorrow. The feelings between Empress Xiande and Emperor Yongle were clear to anyone perceptive. Emperor Yongle was not a heartless ruler; these two were reserved yet deeply affectionate. Losing one would surely be a fatal blow to the other.

“Master,” Empress Xiande suppressed her choked voice and asked, “His Majesty… how long can he hold on?”

Gao Zhan glanced inside, sighed deeply, and said: “At most, one month.”

“How can this be…” Shen Miao was astonished.

“His Majesty’s illness accumulated from his early years. Over the past year, the poison has invaded his internal organs, and he’s been sustained only by his own will. His Majesty has endured much suffering, but now he’s at the end of his strength,” Gao Zhan said. “I have attended to His Majesty’s illness since he was young. His Majesty has a tenacious character and carries too many burdens. Even now, he’s still forcing himself. If Your Highness is willing, please advise His Majesty not to make his passing too difficult. He has spent his life considering others; sometimes, he should be selfish once.” He bowed deeply to Empress Xiande: “In these coming days, please stay by His Majesty’s side.”

After Gao Zhan left, Shen Miao wanted to comfort Empress Xiande but didn’t know how to begin.

In matters of pain, too much consolation from others is useless. The knife isn’t falling on their own body; they can’t feel the pain. People always think that a few casual words of comfort can resolve everything, but it’s not so.

Empress Xiande forced a smile and said, “You should go back first. I… I am fine.”

Shen Miao didn’t say much, only told her to take good care of herself, and then withdrew.

Returning to her room, she couldn’t help but stroke her belly and open a fragrance pouch on the table.

The red beans still looked smooth and intact.

In this world, there are so many parts of life and death. People who were laughing one moment might fall the next. Heaven is too cruel, never giving people good times or good luck in this life. One can only rely on oneself.

She would protect her loved ones and her family.

…

Empress Xiande sat by the bed. Emperor Yongle had awakened.

She was lowering her head, lost in thought. Her profile was beautiful and gentle, as if time had suddenly turned back, and everything was as it had been at the beginning.

“Qingzhen,” Emperor Yongle spoke.

Empress Xiande came back to her senses, looking at him, and asked: “Your Majesty is awake. Do you feel unwell anywhere?”

“No,” Emperor Yongle shook his head.

After a moment of silence, Emperor Yongle finally spoke: “Qingzhen, the Emperor doesn’t have much time left.”

Empress Xiande looked at him without speaking.

“The Emperor…” he paused, then continued, “this winter, I probably won’t be able to accompany you to bury the snow wine.”

“Although one jar was broken, there’s still another. If Your Majesty doesn’t mind, on a cool day, we can go to Cuihu Pavilion, and this concubine would like to drink with Your Majesty. But there won’t be any for the Princess Consort and the others. Cuihu Pavilion has beautiful summer scenery, and this year’s lotus flowers are blooming abundantly…” Empress Xiande spoke as if she hadn’t heard Emperor Yongle’s words.

“Qingzhen,” Emperor Yongle interrupted her, “the Emperor cannot accompany you anymore.”

His face was pale. He was still as handsome as before, but without the imperial majesty and sternness, he seemed like some family’s young master—only very thin, very haggard, very sad.

Empress Xiande turned her head away. Emperor Yongle couldn’t see her expression, only heard her voice as if through a fog, hazy yet making one’s heart ache. She said: “Your Majesty is always heartless, unwilling to deceive this concubine even once, not even once. Indeed, this beautiful dream must now end.”

Emperor Yongle hesitated before saying: “I’m sorry.”

“Your Majesty need not apologize to this concubine. There’s nothing to apologize for. This concubine lives her own life, unrelated to Your Majesty,” Empress Xiande said. “Just now, Master Gao came and told this concubine that Your Majesty has been enduring painful illness for over a year. This concubine wants to ask, why would Your Majesty do this? Enduring such pain with such effort, for what purpose?”

“For Daliang,” Emperor Yongle said. “The Emperor wanted to see Xie Yuan conquer the land, protect Daliang, to see the day when the great cause is settled and peaceful. Mother Empress’s wish—the Emperor hoped to witness its fulfillment in his lifetime, but… the Emperor’s time is short, and I fear I won’t last until that day.”

Empress Xiande was silent for a long time before responding: “I see. This concubine understands.”

“Qingzhen,” Emperor Yongle said, “you… should make plans for yourself.”

“What plans does Your Majesty want this concubine to make?” Empress Xiande suddenly turned her head, tears glistening in her eyes. She said: “Does Your Majesty want this concubine to live anonymously as an ordinary person? Or simply remain in this palace, living out her days in luxury? Or perhaps find a good husband and remarry?”

With each word she spoke, the pain in Emperor Yongle’s eyes deepened. He imperceptibly gripped the blanket under his hand yet calmly said: “Whatever makes you happy.”

Empress Xiande abruptly turned her head away, but Emperor Yongle could see a large teardrop fall onto the back of her hand. When she spoke again, her voice was calm and unwavering. She said: “This concubine understands. Thank you for Your Majesty’s thorough consideration. This concubine will do so. Your Majesty should think about how to establish the decree of succession. Some things need to be planned early.”

She stood up and said: “This concubine has other matters to attend to and will take her leave now. Your Majesty should take care of your health. When you are better, remember to drink a pot with this concubine at Cuihu Pavilion.”

She withdrew.

Empress Xiande rarely became angry, especially in recent days when her relationship with Emperor Yongle had been good, with smiles and warmth every day. But even the softest water can become temperamental, and when it does, it becomes like ice, stubborn enough to make one angry.

Yet one cannot bear to truly be angry.

After Empress Xiande left, Emperor Yongle began to cough violently. He reached for the handkerchief under his pillow to wipe his mouth. Eunuch Deng, who had been standing to the side, quickly brought hot water and said: “Your Majesty, please be careful.”

“Eunuch Deng,” Emperor Yongle frowned, “has the Emperor done wrong?” A rare look of youthful confusion appeared on his face, making Eunuch Deng’s nose tingle with emotion.

Eunuch Deng had served Emperor Yongle for many years, watching him grow up. Emperor Yongle’s current appearance reminded him of long ago, when Emperor Xiaowu’s favored consort had poisoned him, and Empress Xiao learned from the head of the Gao family that he wouldn’t live past thirty-five, embracing Emperor Yongle and weeping bitterly. At that time, the still youthful Emperor Yongle had uncertainly comforted Empress Xiao, asking Eunuch Deng in confusion: “Eunuch Deng, is this prince’s poison very serious?”

From a gentle Crown Prince to an inscrutable Emperor, yet there would still be a day when he confusedly asked those around him if his actions were wrong.

Before Eunuch Deng could speak, Emperor Yongle sighed and said: “The Emperor envies Xie Yuan.”

“Although both the Emperor and Xie Yuan have faced difficulties, that lad has slightly better luck than the Emperor. If the Emperor could also live on…” he didn’t continue.

Many things in the world end simply because of an “if.”

Because there is no “if.”

…

In ten days, Xie Jingxing captured Dingzhou.

The Mingqi Emperor, Fu Xiuyi, was shot dead by chaotic troops on the city tower.

It was truly laughable. Fu Xiuyi became a ruler who lost his country. He had originally declared with great spirit that he would share the fate of Mingqi and would surely fight alongside his soldiers until the last moment. As long as Dingzhou had not fallen, he would still be the Emperor of Mingqi and would not surrender.

But at the final moment, somehow he changed his mind and tried to leave secretly, perhaps still harboring thoughts of a comeback someday.

However, Fu Xiuyi had calculated everything except the human heart.

His advisors had seen the situation of Mingqi more clearly than he had. When they learned that Fu Xiuyi’s declaration to perish with the enemy was a facade, while he was actually planning to escape, they were immediately enraged.

Fu Xiuyi had brought this upon himself. This group of advisors had all been recruited by him either through gold and silver or through beautiful women. Believing that heroes come from all walks of life, Fu Xiuyi considered himself someone who valued talent regardless of background, so among his advisors were people from all levels of society. There were robbers, bandits, and even murderers who wouldn’t bat an eye. These people had no distinction between good and evil; they followed Fu Xiuyi only because he could provide them with the treasures and women they wanted, allowing them to achieve great things.

Now that the grand cause was ruined, Fu Xiuyi still wanted to escape—how could that be allowed?

The boldest and most ruthless among the advisors found a way to bind Fu Xiuyi on the city tower, personally took bow and arrow to shoot him dead, and finally cut off his head to present to Xie Jingxing as an achievement, hoping to surrender.

Throughout his life of scheming and striving, Fu Xiuyi probably never imagined he would meet such an end. He neither perished with his country like a ruler, preserving his integrity, nor did he save his life to plot a comeback later. Instead, like a prisoner, he was shot dead by those he had recruited at great expense, in full view of the citizens of Dingzhou, and became a token for seeking favor from the enemy.

In his final moments of confusion, he saw the young man on a tall horse at the front of thousands of troops below the city tower. He held the reins, looking over lazily with his usual irreverence, his eyes full of contempt.

But before he could think further, he could see nothing more.

His empire, his scheming ambition, all came to an abrupt end at this moment. He could never understand: he had already become emperor, he had planned early in his life—how could he be defeated by an enemy he had initially wanted to eliminate?

Perhaps heaven was unfair; perhaps his luck was bad.

That’s why he lost.

Below the tower, Xie Jingxing clicked his tongue and said: “For people’s hearts to be so scattered, Fu Xiuyi truly had skill.”

“Hearts won with gold and silver naturally don’t last long,” Gaoyang laughed casually. “Let’s go! Enter the city!”

“By the way,” Ji Yushu said, “Princess Rongxin and several members of the Su family have already been rescued. Now…”

Xie Jingxing’s expression remained unchanged: “Protect them. As for the rest, let them be.”

…

When Shen Miao received the news, she was stunned for a long time.

She hadn’t expected her enemies from her previous life to meet such a clean and swift end. But she also felt that perhaps all of this was as it should be.

Fu Xiuyi had sown evil seeds early on, so there would always be a day of harvest. Madam Mei had schemed with a tiger and was eventually devoured by it. They were constantly exploiting, using gold and beautiful women to obtain what they wanted. Such people’s influence might seem omnipotent on the surface, but it never lasts.

That’s why Fu Xiuyi was ultimately betrayed by his advisors, and why Madam Mei died at the hands of the man who had adored her to the heavens in her previous life.

Shen Miao had thought that upon learning of these two people’s fates, she would certainly exclaim with satisfaction. However, at this moment, she didn’t feel much at all. It was as if she had simply done what she should have done, no longer making revenge the mission of the latter half of her life.

Because, looking at her belly, she had more important things to possess, and the present to focus on.

Being trapped in the shackles of hatred, in the end, the only one who couldn’t escape would be oneself. But Xie Jingxing and this child had finally helped her walk out of that long nightmare. The longer one lives, the more peaceful one’s heart becomes. She had finally done the last bit she could do for Fu Ming and Wanyu. For her current life, she wanted to live well.

Luo Tan was outside looking at flowers and said: “The lotus flowers are truly beautiful. Little cousin, let’s go for a walk later.”

Shen Miao nodded.

The lotus flowers were indeed beautiful. Empress Xiande loved looking at lotus flowers the most.

Emperor Yongle’s health was deteriorating day by day.

The decree of succession had already been privately discussed with Emperor Yongle’s trusted ministers. Emperor Yongle had not concealed his condition from them, and several ministers had already secretly arranged everything. If one day Emperor Yongle never woke up again, everything would proceed naturally. The decree of succession would be announced to the world, and when Xie Jingxing returned in triumph, what awaited him would be the responsibility for all of Daliang.

Naturally, Emperor Yongle’s illness was also kept from Xie Jingxing.

These matters were like heavy shackles; those who knew them were not necessarily happy. This was also Emperor Yongle’s own choice.

At this time, Empress Xiande seemed to be the most peaceful. She still brewed tea, read books, played chess, and wrote calligraphy every day. She chatted casually with Emperor Yongle about everyday matters, occasionally teasing Shen Miao. If one ignored Emperor Yongle’s increasingly pale face, perhaps everything would appear no different from before.

In Weiyang Palace, Empress Xiande looked outside and said: “There was a light rain today. By nightfall, it will surely be cool. This concubine is reluctant to drink that small jar of snow wine. Let’s do it tonight. Would Your Majesty accompany this concubine to finish it?”

Emperor Yongle sat in a chair. He glanced at Empress Xiande and laughed: “One jar—do you want to get drunk?” His words were very gentle.

“If one could sleep and never wake, who wouldn’t want that?” Empress Xiande murmured, then continued: “One jar of wine won’t make me drunk. This concubine has a good capacity for alcohol. When I was young, I often stole wine to drink with my brother at home.”

Hearing this, Emperor Yongle rarely showed any interest and said: “This doesn’t seem like something you would do.”

“What’s so special about this?” Empress Xiande spoke with some pride: “Drinking with my brothers, this concubine has never lost. At that time, father even boasted that he would surely find an aged wine that would make this concubine drunk after just one sip. He searched for many but couldn’t find any. Later, after this concubine entered the palace, fearing disgrace from drinking, I no longer drank.”

“First tea, then wine,” Emperor Yongle sighed. “Your interests are quite varied.”

“Tea brings clarity, wine allows indulgence,” Empress Xiande smiled. “So tonight, Your Majesty shouldn’t maintain your dignity anymore. Indulge once. The snow wine was brewed by this concubine herself. Though it can’t compare to any divine nectar, it can still accompany the breeze and moonlight.”

“Very well,” Emperor Yongle said. “The Emperor will indulge with you once.”

…

Late summer, the night breeze was gentle. Ten miles of emerald hue filled the lake, with lotus flowers standing tall and elegant. The breeze passed over, raising waves of green. Longyi’s summers were long; even at the end of August, there was no hint of coolness.

In a small pavilion by the lake, a small jar of wine, a few pastries, and two wine bowls were placed on the table.

Emperor Yongle looked at the round wine bowl before him, raising an eyebrow and asking: “Using this?” When he made this gesture, which Xie Jingxing often did, he looked quite similar to Xie Jingxing.

“Sipping in small mouthfuls wouldn’t allow one to taste the flavor of the snow wine,” Empress Xiande smiled. “One must use such a wine bowl and drink in large gulps to appreciate its clear sweetness.”

“Have you always drunk like this?” Emperor Yongle frowned. “How reckless.”

“In any case, this concubine drinks alone, with no one watching. Why worry about so much?” Empress Xiande shrugged, holding up the small wine jar with one hand, pouring wine for Emperor Yongle.

Emperor Yongle wanted to say something but hesitated, looking deeply at Empress Xiande before falling silent.

Empress Xiande brewed snow wine every year, but this was the first time Emperor Yongle had accompanied her to drink it. For so many years, she had brewed tea alone, made wine alone, watched flowers bloom and wither, living freely in the deep palace. She had been an excellent empress, almost making people forget that she was just a woman who could also feel lonely. Most of the time, she could only taste solitude by herself, like the slightly bitter taste of the wine.

Tao Guniang and Eunuch Deng stood far away, seemingly wanting to leave this rare moment to the imperial couple. Empress Xiande handed the wine bowl to Emperor Yongle and smiled: “Every time Jingxing comes for a palace banquet, he likes to drink from this wine bowl. This concubine has seen that Your Majesty seems somewhat envious. Tonight, there’s no need to worry about such things. Only this concubine is present; this concubine won’t laugh at Your Majesty for impropriety.”

“Laugh? What is there for the Emperor to envy?” After saying this, Emperor Yongle picked up the wine bowl, somewhat critically examined it, but still took a sip from the rim.

Seeing this, Empress Xiande couldn’t help but laugh and said: “What is Your Majesty doing? You should learn from this concubine.” She picked up the wine bowl, tilted her head back, and drank. Even with such a gesture, when done by her, it was still very elegant, pleasing to the eye.

Emperor Yongle coughed lightly: “How reckless.” Yet his gaze followed Empress Xiande, very gentle.

Empress Xiande poured herself another bowl and smiled: “When this concubine was young, I followed my father in reading history books. I admired those unfettered, elegant heroes in the books. They emerged in chaotic times, handsome and gallant, eating and drinking heartily, roaming the world freely. I felt that such a life would be worthwhile in this world. This concubine thought that someday I would marry such a great hero, brewing tea for him by day, drinking wine with him by night.” As she spoke, her eyes shone brightly, as if she had traversed time, returning to her girlhood days with the mischievous look of someone pestering her brothers for wine.

“And then?” Emperor Yongle asked.

“Later, this concubine married Your Majesty. Your Majesty wouldn’t eat or drink heartily, could hardly be called unfettered, nor were you rough on the outside but refined inside. Instead, you were very cold, and this concubine was truly regretful.”

Emperor Yongle narrowed his eyes at her. Her cheeks gradually turned rosy, and it was hard to tell if she was drunk or not. Emperor Yongle thought she must be drunk; the sober Empress Xiande would never say such childish, critical words about him.

He said: “Didn’t you say your alcohol tolerance was good? Why are you acting drunk in front of the Emperor?”

“This concubine isn’t drunk,” Empress Xiande said. “This concubine wishes to be drunk, but unfortunately, for so many years, this concubine had to stay sober.”

Emperor Yongle couldn’t smile anymore.

“Marrying Your Majesty was truly this concubine’s bad luck. All was well, yet I had to share my husband with countless women. Even in those high noble families with concubines, the principal wife at least had a child. This concubine doesn’t even have her child; this marriage can’t be considered very good.” Empress Xiande smiled: “So this concubine envies the Princess Consort. Though the Princess Consort’s life hasn’t been easy, and she has many concerns, she is luckier than this concubine. She still has choices. Jingxing treats her very well; Jingxing is not heartless like Your Majesty.”

Emperor Yongle was silent for a very long time, so long that one could almost hear the frogs croaking in the pond and the cicadas singing in the willows. He said: “You also have choices. Qingzhen…”

“This concubine never had a choice from the beginning,” Empress Xiande interrupted him. “This concubine’s heart is entirely with Your Majesty, how could I spare any thought for other choices?”

Emperor Yongle was startled. Empress Xiande had already picked up her wine bowl on her own and drained the second bowl in one gulp.

“When Your Majesty looks at this concubine, is there any difference?” Empress Xiande looked at him. “Do you also feel that the choice regarding this concubine in this life was necessary?”

“Yes,” Emperor Yongle paused, then said: “You are excellent. You are the best empress for Daliang. No one could do better than you. Back then, Mother Empress liked you very much, and the Emperor also liked you. You are intelligent, proper, generous, and steady. The entire harem has been managed well by you. The Emperor’s choice of you was not wrong.”

Empress Xiande started to laugh, and as she laughed, she almost laughed until tears came out. She said: “So it is indeed like this. Your Majesty’s necessary choice was actually ‘Empress Xiande,’ not ‘Qingzhen.’ This concubine understands now.” She looked at the moon in the sky, and there seemed to be something glistening at the corners of her eyes. When she turned back, she had resumed her usual gentle and composed demeanor. She said: “The matter Your Majesty discussed with this concubine earlier, this concubine has considered it. I think Your Majesty is right. After all, it’s my own life, and I’ll have to continue living it. “

Emperor Yongle stared at her, feeling a constriction in his throat. After a moment, he managed to ask with difficulty: “Have you… found someone?”

“Not yet,” Empress Xiande smiled slightly. “But there’s no need to rush these matters. When that day truly comes, let it happen naturally.”

Emperor Yongle seemed to have no words.

Empress Xiande picked up the wine bowl and said: “This bowl of snow wine, this concubine toasts to Your Majesty. Being husband and wife for so many years was a fate cultivated from a past life. Whether it’s a good fate or a bad one, over these years, though this concubine’s life hasn’t been particularly good, it certainly hasn’t been bad either. Thank you, Your Majesty.”

Emperor Yongle also raised his wine bowl. However, if one looked carefully, one would notice that his fingers holding the wrist were trembling slightly, as if he couldn’t hold it steady. But he concealed it extremely well, immediately covering it with his sleeve, and drank the wine in the bowl.

Drinking such a large bowl in one breath was no longer refreshing and mellow; from the throat to the internal organs, it was fiery, burning painfully, making him feel as bitter as life itself.

He saw Empress Xiande stand up, smiling at him and saying: “Actually, this jar of wine seems like a lot, but after a few bowls with Your Majesty, it’s empty. It’s a shame to waste such a beautiful night, but it doesn’t matter; there are many days ahead. This concubine enjoyed drinking with Your Majesty today and will go for a walk outside now. Your Majesty should rest too. It’s late, and the dew is heavy; be careful not to catch a chill.” She left with graceful steps.

Her departure was light, and thinking back to the words she had just spoken, she was clearly saying goodbye to something. Now that the farewell words had been spoken and the farewell wine had been drunk, what remained was just like now—step by step, leaving his world, never to return.

Emperor Yongle turned his head to watch Empress Xiande’s departing figure.

Her silhouette disappeared into the long corridor, never looking back, each step particularly firm.

His heart suddenly ached, an indescribable pain slowly spreading from his heart to his limbs. His heart was beating fast, almost convulsing. He could hardly breathe or speak a complete sentence.

He suddenly fell from his seat!

Eunuch Deng, who had been waiting nearby, was startled by this sight and quickly came over. Supporting Emperor Yongle, he saw that his face was terrifyingly pale, his lips trembling incessantly. Alarmed, he immediately called for the imperial physician and ordered the guards to take Emperor Yongle back to Yangxin Palace.

Empress Xiande walked in the night. The wind blew past, and the wine she had drunk seemed to be forced out. The momentary dizziness disappeared instantly, leaving only the vexing sobriety.

She held onto the railing by the pond, sighing with some fatigue.

She knew that the words she had spoken today were indeed spoken in anger. But regarding how much longer Emperor Yongle’s remaining days would last, she herself was extremely fearful, wanting to avoid that outcome, unwilling to see or hear it, stubbornly blocking her ears. Yet Emperor Yongle would repeatedly bring it up, forcing her to face what she didn’t want to face.

Even soil has its earthly nature; how much more so for a person?

Tao Guniang said: “Your Highness, it’s cold outside. Let’s go back first.”

Empress Xiande shook her head. On her wrist was a string of prayer beads, which she had obtained from a temple for Emperor Yongle. Every night, she would recite Buddhist scriptures with those beads, praying for Heaven to have mercy on people and for a miracle to happen.

Each of those prayer beads had been polished smooth and shiny, clearly showing that Empress Xiande had been wearing them for many years. She looked at the moon in the sky—the moon was beautiful and full. This war would soon be a year old. A year of waxing and waning moons, everything having a good ending, just about to achieve military merit—yet recently, she had been losing her composure, making some inappropriate gestures.

She felt quite a bit of self-loathing in her heart. Turning her head, she was about to walk forward when she suddenly heard a “pitter-patter” sound. Looking down, she saw that the string of her prayer beads had broken at some point. The beads scattered from the broken string, falling to the ground, making a crisp sound as they struck.

How could the prayer beads suddenly break?

“Tao Guniang…” Empress Xiande murmured, a sudden sense of unease welling up in her heart. It was as if her heart had been seized, and for an instant, she could hardly breathe.

“Your Highness!” Tao Guniang was startled and quickly came to support her. Empress Xiande waved her hand, crouching down somewhat frantically herself, saying: “Quick, help me pick them up…”

Tao Guniang had just crouched down when she saw a young eunuch who usually followed Eunuch Deng hurriedly running over, his face alarmed. He said: “Your Highness, His Majesty is unwell. Please come quickly!”

Empress Xiande had just picked up one fallen prayer bead. Upon hearing this, her hand involuntarily loosened. The bead rolled along the ground, falling into the pond. It didn’t even make a splash on the water’s surface, just a “plop” as it sank, never to be seen again.

…

In Yangxin Palace, eunuchs and palace maids were kneeling throughout the room.

Eunuch Deng stood in a corner of the room, head bowed, his expression very sorrowful.

When Empress Xiande entered, Gao Zhan had just come out from inside. Seeing her, he shook his head.

Empress Xiande’s steps faltered; it was only because she was holding Tao Guniang’s hand that she didn’t fall.

After a while, she said: “You all may leave.”

Emperor Yongle on the couch also waved his hand.

Everyone in the room withdrew.

Empress Xiande stepped forward.

She walked very slowly, as if resisting an outcome she didn’t want to believe. But she had to move forward. When she reached the couch, she half-knelt before it, looking at the person on it.

Emperor Yongle also looked at her. After a long gaze, he instead smiled and said: “It’s good. Before leaving, I finally got to taste the snow wine you brewed.”

“Xingzhi…” Empress Xiande looked at him with tears.

She called him “Xingzhi,” Emperor Yongle’s courtesy name, not “Your Majesty.” That was from when she was still a maiden, and Empress Xiao liked her and told her Xie Chi’s courtesy name. Empress Xiande liked Xie Chi’s courtesy name, feeling that this person was very upright.

Although in the long course of years, he had also given her indelible harm, Empress Xiande’s heart still couldn’t leave him.

Is life destined to have such a fate? This fate didn’t come perfectly; it could even be called a tribulation. As this tribulation was about to end, she stubbornly refused to let go. Like a moth to a flame, she would never voluntarily let go until the very last moment.

“Qingzhen, I can’t accompany you anymore,” Emperor Yongle said apologetically. “When you first married me, you thought you would be protected, but over these many years, you’ve gained nothing.” He spoke very slowly, pausing after each sentence, as if it was very difficult.

Empress Xiande said: “Say no more.”

The two of them, from the time they became emperor and empress, had referred to themselves as “the Emperor” and “this concubine.” It was only now, as life was about to reach its end, facing a parting that would never see a reunion, that they addressed each other as “you” and “I,” finally resembling an ordinary couple.

He said: “Go live your own life. You are so good; you’ll surely be very happy in the future. When you marry someone else, don’t choose a selfish husband like me again. Find someone who cherishes and loves you…”

Empress Xiande wept uncontrollably.

Suddenly, she felt her hand being grasped and saw Emperor Yongle staring at her with intense eyes. Gritting his teeth, he said: “But I am unwilling. I don’t hope… I am very selfish. You are my woman, and I don’t want you to be with anyone else.”

Empress Xiande was stunned.

“This past year I’ve struggled to live, hoping for a few more days. It wasn’t because I wanted to see Xie Yuan rule the world. The great cause of the empire is already settled; there’s nothing I can’t let go of. I just… can’t bear to part with…” he gasped for breath with effort. “I can’t bear to part with you… Even being husband and wife for half a day more, one moment more, would be wonderful.”

“The first time I saw you, and later when you were summoned to the palace, it wasn’t Mother Empress’s idea. From the beginning, it was me. I told Mother Empress that I thought you were wonderful. All these years, you thought I was satisfied with ‘Empress Xiande,’ but it wasn’t that. I said anyone could be empress as long as they did well, but that wasn’t true. From the beginning, it was you. Those words… were all lies to deceive you…”

Empress Xiande covered her mouth and said: “Why didn’t you say so earlier?”

Emperor Yongle’s face grew increasingly pale. His voice was so faint it was almost inaudible. He said: “Unfortunately, my fate is poor, and I’ve ruined your entire life…” He reached out, seemingly wanting to wipe away the tears on Empress Xiande’s face, but the movement had barely begun when his hand fell limply.

His eyes closed.

Empress Xiande covered her mouth and buried her face in the bedding, weeping in agony. She cried with heart-wrenching anguish, but outside, not a sound could be heard. She muffled her voice in the thick bedding, almost wishing she could bury her entire self, so that from now on, she wouldn’t have to hear, see, blame, or think.

The incense in the copper burner rose in wisps, dispersing in the air. In the room, there was only restrained, suppressed weeping. Outside the window, the moon was bright and gentle, so perfect it seemed unreal.

After a while, Empress Xiande stood up. She gently tucked the blanket around Emperor Yongle and straightened his lips. She arranged her hair in front of the mirror, wiped away her tears, and slowly opened the door.

A room full of kneeling eunuchs and palace maids waited outside. Eunuch Deng bowed forward, and Empress Xiande spoke calmly: “His Majesty has passed away.”

Eunuch Deng was startled, then solemnly knelt. Placing his duster forward, he knocked his head on the ground hard several times.

The eunuchs and palace maids outside, seeing this, also knelt and kowtowed, their mournful voices echoing throughout the nine-layered palace.

“His Majesty has passed away—”

…

Shen Miao looked at Empress Xiande, who was dressed in plain white mourning clothes. Her expression remained gentle and calm, as if nothing could shake the composure in her heart even slightly.

After a brief turmoil, the court eventually calmed down.

Before his death, Emperor Yongle had arranged everything, including the decree of succession and potential court unrest. Though some were restless, the people Emperor Yongle had arranged were not merely for show. Moreover, Xie Jingxing was now frequently sending victory reports, and everyone knew that Emperor Yongle had no children and that passing the throne to his only blood relative brother was a fact already decided.

There were questioning voices, but these would gradually fade. Xie Jingxing’s demonstrated courage, Emperor Yongle’s thorough arrangements—the court was as solid as a fortress. At this time, surprisingly, no chaos had emerged. Perhaps they also knew that once the Prince Rui returned, he would bring not only victory but also the territories of Mingqi and Qin. This war-torn world would be completely unified, and an imperial position would not be so important anymore.

Better to be obedient and wait for the new emperor to return and ascend the throne, perhaps even gaining some merit.

The front court was all about interests, but what about the back palace?

The women of the back palace, having lost the ruler they relied on for survival, were naturally at a loss. Some sought death, but more were planning for the second half of their lives. Among Emperor Yongle’s consorts, most were daughters of court officials, hardly any taken in by his initiative. Moreover, Emperor Yongle was naturally aloof, and apart from specially favoring Lu Jing before, he wasn’t very fond of female company. Therefore, his relationships with those consorts could hardly be called loving or intimate. After Emperor Yongle’s passing, these women proactively sought help from their own families, hoping to find a better path for the second half of their lives.

Empress Xiande calmly handled everything—declaring national mourning, entering the imperial tomb. She didn’t require anyone to be buried with him. Emperor Yongle had left instructions with Eunuch Deng regarding his posthumous affairs, and everything followed his wishes.

Shen Miao visited Empress Xiande at night. Since Emperor Yongle’s entombment, she seemed especially calm. Today was also the Mid-Autumn Festival; the full moon was in the sky, yet she sat in Weiyang Palace listening to a maid play the zither.

Shen Miao sent the zither-playing palace maid away. Only then did Empress Xiande notice her. Seeming extremely tired, she smiled and said: “You’ve come.”

“The weather has turned cold. Your Highness must add more clothing. If you want to listen to the zither, heat the small stove to avoid catching a chill,” Shen Miao said.

Empress Xiande smiled dismissively and pointed to the mooncakes on the table, saying: “Made by the imperial kitchen. Earlier, this palace wanted to have someone send them to you, but then thought they had probably already been sent, so I didn’t attend to it further.”

Shen Miao smiled and said: “Your Highness should eat some too.”

Empress Xiande waved her hand: “This palace cannot eat.”

The decree of succession had been issued; once Xie Jingxing returned to Longyi, he would ascend the throne. At that time, Shen Miao would be the empress, so addressing Empress Xiande in this way now was inappropriate. However, neither of them minded.

These days, this palace has been thinking about the past. Originally, I thought that with His Majesty gone—a fact this palace has long known—this palace would surely gradually get used to it. But as days pass, I find myself increasingly unable to adapt. I constantly feel an emptiness in my heart, as if something is missing. Princess Consort, after Jingxing left, were you also like this?”

Shen Miao was startled.

Longing? Of course, there was. Ordinarily, one might think that seeing someone daily is nothing special, but only after truly separating does one realize what one has lost. At the moment of parting, people can perhaps understand many of their feelings. But… Shen Miao unconsciously stroked her belly. Perhaps because there was still a little one in her womb, these long, torturous days didn’t seem so dull.

“You are probably different from this palace,” Empress Xiande said without waiting for Shen Miao’s answer. “Previously, when His Majesty didn’t know who you were, he had information about you gathered. This palace heard it and knew you were a person with your ideas. You dealt with the Mingqi royal family, protected the Shen family, and from the beginning, you probably had your thoughts. As for encountering Jingxing and marrying him, these were all coincidences that happened naturally. If you hadn’t met Jingxing, you could still have lived your own life, because your initial goal wasn’t to become someone’s wife.”

“But this palace is different,” she looked at the rubies on her long fingernails and said, “This palace’s family was wealthy and stable, with no conflicts with the court’s disputes, born without worries. When this palace met His Majesty, I felt that the most important thing in life was to become his wife, to accompany him for a lifetime.” She rested her chin on her elbow, speaking slowly, as if about to fall asleep the next moment, yet she continued.

“Perhaps it’s precisely because this palace lived too carefree in the first half of my life that I didn’t realize becoming someone’s wife could be such a difficult thing.”

Shen Miao remained silent.

Empress Xiande had suffered too much. During these days, she hadn’t spoken much, but Shen Miao understood the feeling. Speaking couldn’t change anything, but sometimes, being able to express oneself was good. That Empress Xiande was willing to speak now was at least better than keeping everything bottled up inside.

“With His Majesty gone, this palace doesn’t know what to do anymore. The women of the back palace have all been dispersed. The palace used to be noisy and bothersome, but now it’s cold and quiet, making one feel strangely lonely. This palace just thinks, if only I hadn’t met His Majesty from the beginning, preferring to be like you, struggling with the royal family, protecting the Shen family cautiously—even that would be better than this destined sad ending.”

She spoke with such heartache and despair. Shen Miao comforted her: “This humble wife is the same. No one’s life is always smooth and peaceful. Since this humble wife was born, apart from the care of parents and brothers, not once has heaven bestowed good times. This humble wife never dared to hope for these things, so in everything, I could only believe in myself. Meeting His Highness was this humble wife’s blessing, but if there were no His Highness, even if this humble wife’s path were more difficult, I would continue walking it.” After a pause, she said, “Your Highness, the Empress is the same. Even if His Majesty has left first, Your Highness should think of yourself, live for yourself. No matter how difficult the path, continue walking and see—this is also what His Majesty would wish to see.”

Empress Xiande was silent for a long time, so long that Shen Miao thought she hadn’t heard her words at all, until she heard her say: “Princess Consort, thank you.”

“All these principles you speak of, this palace understands.”

“It’s just that, it’s too difficult, too difficult.”

That night, Shen Miao and Empress Xiande sat together for a long time. They spoke little, yet it was as if they had said a great deal.

After Shen Miao left, Empress Xiande sat alone in the palace for a long time.

Not until Tao Guniang came to urge her to rest did Empress Xiande rise. Only after personally seeing her wash and go to bed did Tao Guniang leave.

After closing the door, the person on the bed sat up again.

She lit a lamp and rummaged through boxes and drawers for clothes, not any empress’s court attire, but a simple moon-white plain dress. She had always loved such simple, refreshing colors, but after becoming empress, she could no longer wear these styles. If not elaborate and dignified, she would be unable to “hold her ground” against other consorts.

She appeared dignified and composed, but in reality, she was just a reserved girl who didn’t like to talk much.

Wearing the simple dress, she sat before the mirror, lightly brushed her eyebrows, and applied light rouge, appearing extremely pretty.

Then she took out paper and pen from a drawer and began to write a letter. When finished, she placed it in an envelope.

Finally, Empress Xiande retrieved an exquisite jade box from the bottom of the cabinet. The box was covered with a thin layer of dust.

From the beginning of her marriage to Emperor Yongle, she had known about his illness. Marrying a man who might pass away at any time required great courage.

But she was the bravest lady from the Chief Secretary’s mansion, the one who most admired heroes. Emperor Yongle might not have been considered a hero—he manipulated power, won people’s hearts, not upright and frank—but Empress Xiande still felt that he was perhaps her hero.

He was at the beginning, and he was at the end.

In the jade box was a slender small bottle, which she took out and held in her palm.

On the day she married Emperor Yongle, Empress Xiande had prepared this medicine bottle for herself. She had told herself in the mirror, dressed in a phoenix crown and embroidered robe: “Qingzhen, the heroes of the rivers and lakes are decisive, putting honor first, daring to love and hate. Though you are in an official family, you yearn for the jianghu.”

“If one day he unfortunately passes away, whether in the blue sky or yellow springs, you will follow. This is your decision.”

For so many years, every year, Empress Xiande would take out that medicine bottle to look at, and she was also grateful that the bottle had never been used. Each year was stolen from heaven, especially joyful times.

Now, it was finally time to take it out.

She was very timid, so timid that after Xie Chi left, she lacked the courage to live the remaining days.

She was also very brave, brave enough that from the beginning, knowing she might face such an outcome, she still resolutely proceeded.

“Xingzhi, I’ve come to see you,” she said softly, drinking the contents of the medicine bottle in one gulp.

The moon gradually emerged from the clouds again, hanging high among the willow branches, as if smiling and watching the sorrows and joys of the world.

So perfect it made one want to weep.

…

Shen Miao slept very uncomfortably that night. Her dreams were extraordinarily noisy, and though she wanted to hear clearly what the noise was about, she couldn’t understand.

Until Jingzhe woke her, Shen Miao looked at the bright daylight outside and finally got up. Touching her forehead, she found it covered in cold sweat, and a sense of unease flashed through her heart.

Luo Tan ran in from outside, her eyes red. Looking at Shen Miao, she said softly: “Empress Xiande has passed away!”

Shen Miao took the handkerchief from Jingzhe’s hand and dropped it to the ground with a “plop.”

…

In less than a month, Emperor Yongle and Empress Xiande passed away one after another, plunging the empire into great grief.

Emperor Yongle’s death followed by Empress Xiande’s suicide was deeply moving. Those consorts who had once fought bitterly in the palace, upon hearing the news, all rushed to come. When Empress Xiande had been empress, she had been kind and generous, and since Emperor Yongle hadn’t been close to her, these favored consorts hadn’t had any particular feelings against Empress Xiande. Knowing what had happened, they even expressed sighs of lamentation.

Empress Xiande’s father appeared calm throughout, perhaps having anticipated Empress Xiande’s decision. Though grieved, he didn’t find it unacceptable.

Following the rituals for an empress’s burial, Shen Miao had Empress Xiande and Emperor Yongle entombed together, sending them into the imperial tomb. Thus, a wise emperor and a virtuous empress could only remain forever in Daliang’s history books.

What followed, however, were many issues.

With Emperor Yongle’s death, and then Empress Xiande’s, who should now lead the court? Although Emperor Yongle had left a decree of succession, Xie Jingxing had not yet ascended the throne. Strictly speaking, calling Shen Miao an empress now would be inappropriate. But Emperor Yongle had no other siblings; the only blood relation was Xie Jingxing.

No court is completely stable, especially in a situation without a leader.

The court, which had started to stabilize, began to stir again. There were always some restless court officials who attempted to do something. They had ambition but no courage, yet were unwilling to miss this opportunity.

Shen Miao asked Eunuch Deng: “Is the front court arguing very intensely now?”

Eunuch Deng said: “Indeed. The front court now wants to elect someone to temporarily govern until His Highness the Prince returns to Longyi, and then make further plans.”

“Outrageous,” Shen Miao curled her lip. “They are truly like vassals trying to usurp the state!”

Eunuch Deng fell silent.

For some reason, he always felt that this young Princess Rui had an indescribable quality, very similar to the late Empress Xiande, but with a bit more open sharpness than Empress Xiande. Normally, she seemed gentle and approachable, not delving deeply into matters, but once her face turned cold, she became quite intimidating.

Very similar to Prince Rui Xie Yuan.

But before Emperor Yongle left, he had instructed Eunuch Deng to assist Xie Jingxing after his return. Eunuch Deng had lived in the palace of Longyi since childhood and could help with many matters. Now that Xie Jingxing had not yet returned, Eunuch Deng naturally couldn’t be careless about Shen Miao’s instructions.

“Eunuch Deng, prepare. I’ll go to the front court,” she said.

Eunuch Deng was startled and said: “Madam…”

“With court unrest, at this critical juncture, if bad rumors spread, Longyi would inevitably become anxious, and chaos would breed incidents. Better that I first be the villain. It doesn’t matter what others think; we must first calm these restless hearts.”

“But,” Eunuch Deng looked at Shen Miao’s belly and said, “You’re still with child.”

“It’s precisely because of this child that I can subdue the front court,” Shen Miao smiled slightly. “Royal bloodline—even if they want to make some move, they must consider their reputation. Although I am from Mingqi, and they will certainly make an issue of this, the child in my belly carries royal blood. They wouldn’t dare be disrespectful to me in any case.”

Eunuch Deng pondered for a moment and said: “This would indeed stabilize things temporarily, but this way, Princess Consort, your pregnancy can no longer be concealed.”

“I originally kept it secret only because I didn’t want His Highness to be distracted on the battlefield. Now the war is nearly over, the dust is settling, victory is at hand—there’s no need to hide anymore.” She looked at Eunuch Deng, who was still frowning, and smiled: “You’re afraid the palace isn’t peaceful, that someone might want to harm me.”

Eunuch Deng quickly cupped his hands in his sleeves: “This servant will protect the Princess Consort and the young master’s safety!”

Shen Miao nodded: “Thank you for your effort.”

After Eunuch Deng withdrew, Shen Miao sighed, sat in a chair, and looked at the falling leaves outside the window.

Empress Xiande had left too hastily, and many problems had emerged. The palace that had been so lively in spring was now cold and quiet, giving a sense of desolation, as if the person had gone and the tea had turned cold. However, she knew that things were far from over. Before Xie Jingxing’s return, stabilizing the somewhat chaotic front court was her task.

“Since you came to my womb, there hasn’t been a moment of peace,” Shen Miao said softly to her belly. “But, everything will get better.”

…

Five days later, the front court publicly established the decree of succession, causing a stir throughout the court. Some questioned, but senior officials verified one by one. Before Emperor Yongle let go, he had arranged everything properly. The hundred officials were speechless.

Some meddlers claimed that the court now had no leader and demanded the election of several ministers to co-regents. This was refused, with Princess Rui Consort Shen Miao deputizing to handle court affairs.

At once, memorials were transmitted everywhere, and rumors flew in all directions. People said Shen Miao was from Mingqi, clearly a spy sent by Mingqi who wanted to usurp power while the court was without leadership—a wolf with wild ambitions.

This rumor spread quickly but was quelled just as quickly because Shen Miao appeared in the front court with her pregnant belly. Eunuch Deng, Tao Guniang, and others all testified that Empress Xiande had brought Shen Miao into the palace precisely to protect this sole royal bloodline.

With this child, there was nominally no issue. Moreover, when Shen Miao emerged that day, her methods were thunderous, her balance delicate, dealing the troublemakers a heavy blow. She combined benevolence with authority, giving people the feeling that if they stirred up trouble at this time, when Xie Jingxing returned, there would be no good outcome for them.

Half out of wariness toward Shen Miao, half out of fear of Xie Jingxing, this storm quickly subsided.

But Shen Miao’s life was not leisurely.

Having promised to take on this responsibility, she couldn’t just pay lip service. In recent days, she had been reading memorials. After Emperor Yongle’s death, many memorials had accumulated, and with Empress Xiande’s passing, the pile had grown even higher. She read them one by one, sometimes reading until late into the night.

Jingzhe and the others felt sorry for her but couldn’t persuade her to stop, so they could only keep her company.

Luo Tan, dozing off, asked: “Little cousin, why must you read them yourself? If you don’t trust those people, you surely trust the late emperor’s confidants. Why not hand these memorials to them to read? Wouldn’t that be better? Why do it all yourself when you’re carrying a child?”

Shen Miao shook her head: “Hearts change easily; power cannot be carelessly delegated. I am not from Longyi, and in such a short time, I cannot see people’s hearts. Nor can I predict whether changes will arise in the future. It’s better to read these things myself. If something goes wrong, it won’t be easily remedied.”

Perhaps Emperor Yongle originally had confidants, but after his death and Empress Xiande’s death, who could predict whether these people might harbor other thoughts? If this were Mingqi, Shen Miao would understand these people and naturally manage them without issue. But this was Longyi, and she hadn’t been here long.. How could she thoroughly understand people’s characters in such a short time?

In the end, there were no completely trustworthy people here.

Eunuch Deng, serving at the side, nodded approvingly. When Shen Miao had initially made her declaration, Eunuch Deng had inevitably harbored doubts. If it were just talk, facing so many court officials, wouldn’t that shame the royal family? Women were supposed to be more delicate. Previously, Empress Xiande could handle these matters because she was the empress, but Shen Miao had never done these things before. Reading memorials late into the night like a man, caring for the world’s affairs—for her, it seemed too forced.

Fortunately, Shen Miao was doing quite well. Her handling of certain matters could even be called perfect. Though Eunuch Deng didn’t understand court affairs, he was most skilled at observing expressions. The court officials had gone from opposition to doubt, but recently had become somewhat more amenable. This meant that Shen Miao wasn’t doing too poorly; otherwise, these people, who initially picked bones from eggs, couldn’t have gone until now without finding fault.

Eunuch Deng felt somewhat gratified. If Shen Miao were this kind of person, not inferior to Empress Xiande, perhaps Daliang’s dynasty could truly be as Empress Dowager Jingxian had hoped—continuing for a hundred generations, evergreen for ten thousand years.

“This is too exhausting,” Luo Tan said. “But yesterday I heard them discussing after court, saying you’re quite lucky, that the few decisions you’ve made have all been perfect. Hmph,” Luo Tan snorted disdainfully, “What luck? It’s real ability! Little cousin, how do you know everything? Even these messy court memorials, you can read them. Is there anything you don’t know?”

Shen Miao gave her a look: “There’s plenty I don’t know.”

“For example…?” Luo Tan eagerly leaned forward.

“For example, I don’t know how to be as curious about everything as you are.”

Luo Tan looked dejected but then said: “Anyway… the suffering will soon end. You’re about to give birth, and your brother-in-law is about to win the war. By then, my uncle and my father should also come. Just think, when our family reunites, the current hardships will be nothing.”

Shen Miao smiled slightly: “Indeed.”

The current hardships were ultimately worthwhile.

…

News from Xie Jingxing soon arrived: Mingqi had fallen, and the Qin Emperor, seeing no hope in seeking peace, had fled north in panic. Now Daliang’s soldiers were heading to the Qin capital. After occupying the capital, Xie Jingxing’s forces would return to Daliang first.

In a sense, the war was over. Now they were waiting for the hero’s triumphant return.

This was truly the best news heard recently.

However… Shen Miao sighed. Xie Jingxing had likely already learned about Emperor Yongle and Empress Xiande. When he returned to Daliang and visited the imperial tomb to mourn, who knew how he would feel? The last person in this world with blood ties to him had departed. From now on, he would truly be alone.

But… he wasn’t alone. At least he still had Shen Miao and the child.

Tao Guniang smiled and said: “The Princess Consort’s delivery date is estimated to be the first day of next month. That’s about ten more days. Everyone must be especially careful these days.”

Luo Tan rubbed her hands together: “I’m so excited! I wonder if it’s a little niece or a little nephew. I’m dying of curiosity. I guess it’s a little niece, so well-behaved, not making any fuss.”

“That’s not necessarily true,” Tao Guniang said. “The Princess Consort’s belly is pointed; it looks like it might be a young master.”

Shen Miao smiled as she listened to their guesses, feeling an unprecedented sense of security in her heart.

Having the child, waiting for Xie Jingxing’s return—perhaps the hardships and turmoil of the past year would finally end. In the future, good times would finally arrive.

However, in this world, there are rarely perfect things. Even if the ending is good, the middle must certainly have eighteen twists and turns, endless difficulties, and dangers. When it comes to the end, there must still be some major troubles to add to the chaos. It’s as if this makes the good ending more precious, happiness more hard-won.

And Shen Miao, who thought she could proceed smoothly to a perfect moment, encountered such a major problem.

…

Autumn day, clear weather, gentle breeze—a rare fine day.

Shen Miao sat by the courtyard, having unusually finished reading the memorials early today. Luo Tan had found a kite somewhere. Her childlike heart undiminished, she played happily with the palace ladies. Infected by her laughter, Shen Miao couldn’t help but show a smile as well.

Then she saw Eunuch Deng walking in quickly from outside, his expression showing rare gravity. Seeing Shen Miao, he gestured for her to go to the inner palace.

Seeing that he seemed to have something important to say, Shen Miao, supported by Jingzhe, went to the inner palace. Upon arriving, Eunuch Deng said: “Princess Consort, bad news! Remnants of the Lu family are attacking the city!”

“Remnants of the Lu family?” Shen Miao frowned. “Weren’t all the Lu family members eliminated back in Ruyang?”

Among the Lu family remnants, the husband of Miss Lu Two is a military official who kept a batch of private soldiers. At that time, they weren’t in Longyi but on the outskirts beyond Longyi, disguised as ordinary people. These people had dealings with the Ye family. When the Ye family incident occurred, Ye Maocai had given these people a huge sum of money. Now these people, with vehicles and horses, are planning to attack the city and are engaging with the city defenders,” Eunuch Deng said.

Shen Miao frowned. After a while, she said coldly: “A centipede dies but doesn’t go stiff. The Lu and Ye families have truly racked their brains to deal with the royal family.” She looked at Eunuch Deng: “They’re coming for me, aren’t they?”

Eunuch Deng wiped the sweat from his forehead and said: “Princess Consort…”

With the “remaining forces” of the Lu and Ye families as they were now, they couldn’t possibly contend with Xie Jingxing, who led a great army. Choosing to attack the city at this time was nothing more than inheriting the wishes of Ye Maocai and Lu Zhengchun, determined to bring mutual destruction. Now, in the entire palace, Shen Miao was the only person who could make decisions, and she was carrying Xie Jingxing’s child. Perhaps in their view, killing Shen Miao and losing the child would make Xie Jingxing wish for death from the pain.

For Xie Jingxing, this would be the best revenge.

Was this the method of Ye Maocai and Lu Zhengchun? They were already dead, but still wanted to disgust people one last time.

“How many troops are in the city? How many guards are in the palace?” Shen Miao asked.

“The palace guards are sufficient to protect the Princess Consort, but those people have already begun slaughtering civilians outside Longyi city. Once they enter the city, they will surely kill indiscriminately. These people are naturally cruel and mixed among the populace. To deal with them would require deploying a large number of troops. This way, the palace would be short of manpower, making it easy for others to exploit the gap.”

Shen Miao frowned: “So you’re saying, choose between the palace and the civilians?”

Eunuch Deng was silent. When put so bluntly, he didn’t know how to respond.

“I understand,” Shen Miao nodded. “Deploy the imperial guards outward to protect the civilians first.”

“Princess Consort!” Eunuch Deng was startled. “You cannot disregard your own life! If anything happens to you, how will this servant answer to His Highness the Prince?”

“I’m not disregarding my life,” Shen Miao said. “But do you think those people are only outside the city? I fear people have already infiltrated the city. What they’re doing is nothing more than causing fear among the civilians. If at this time we still keep the guards only protecting the palace, once those people say a few words, the civilians could easily be incited. If hearts are unstable, even if the palace is as solid as a fortress, it would still fall apart. Especially with His Highness about to return, we cannot have chaos.” Seeing Eunuch Deng’s still disapproving expression, Shen Miao said: “Besides, I won’t joke with my own life. Before His Highness left, he left me some troops. They will protect me.”

Some Moyu Army soldiers who had remained at the Prince Rui Mansion had later followed Shen Miao into the palace. She knew clearly that there was no room for choice now. Lu Zhengchun and Ye Maocai’s final move was like deliberately disgusting people. If Shen Miao only cared about herself and ignored the civilians’ lives, after this matter passed, even if Xie Jingxing ascended the throne, he would be labeled as selfish and cold. For a monarch at the beginning of his reign, the most important thing was the people’s support. If he lost the hearts of the world at the start, the foundation would not be stable.

Even for Xie Jingxing’s sake, they couldn’t let the imperial guards protect only the palace.

Seeing that she seemed to have made up her mind, Eunuch Deng no longer insisted and went to arrange as she had said.

Shen Miao, however, was not as calm as she appeared. She furrowed her brow. If it were any other day, it would be fine, but it had to be at this critical moment, when she was about to give birth. Perhaps those rebel remnants had precisely seized this opportunity.

No matter what, she had to protect the child in her belly.

Luo Tan, having received the news, rushed over, also deeply worried. She advised her, “Little cousin, why don’t you find a place to hide now? Let’s hide until after the child is born. The palace isn’t safe now; everyone knows you’re in the palace, including those rebels. Once the palace guards are few, they will surely launch an attack.”

Shen Miao shook her head: “If I leave, I fear that the next day those people will spread rumors that I fled for my life. This palace is like a position; if I retreat first and the rebels come up, the royal family’s authority can never be established.”

“But…” Luo Tan wanted to say more.

“There are no buts. Hold on for a few more days, and Xie Jingxing will return,” Shen Miao said. “Just need to get through this period.”

As Shen Miao had predicted, by the second day, rumors began to spread throughout the streets that the Princess Rui Consort had already fled with her troops, disregarding the lives of Longyi’s civilians. Now there was no one in the Daliang court to take charge. The rebel remnants were fighting with the city defenders at Longyi’s gates, and who knew when they would enter the city? At that time, Longyi would surely flow with blood.

The people were kind, and kind people are the easiest to manipulate. Whether in words or reality, what they could rely on was nothing more than the emperor’s protection. But now, hearing this rumor that the person who could take charge had already fled, the remaining people were like fish on a chopping block, only waiting to be slaughtered.

At once, curses against the royal family’s heartlessness and Shen Miao’s cruelty were endless. They cursed Xie Jingxing for only caring about his merit, not caring about the lives of Longyi’s civilians, and cursed Shen Miao for having no benevolence, abandoning the city and fleeing.

Shen Miao sat upright in the side position of the Golden Hall. She wore a purple-gold robe, flowing with light, her hair in an orthodox palace style. Though her brows and eyes were young, she could still bear the weight of such dark colors. She said: “Go up to the palace city.”

The court officials looked at each other, and one stepped forward and said: “Princess Consort, isn’t this move too risky?” This person had initially opposed Shen Miao’s regency most strongly, though in recent days, he had become much more docile.

“One must take risks for the people to believe they won’t be abandoned in times of danger.” she stood up, with Jingzhe and Guyu quickly supporting her. Being pregnant made walking somewhat inconvenient.

The palace city was called a city, but it was more like a city tower. When Shen Miao led the officials up the tower, below had already gathered some civilians, and more kept coming. Mo Qing led the Moyu Army, and the palace guards were all poised, preventing assassins from sneaking in for an attack.

Among the civilians, some recognized Shen Miao, and someone immediately exclaimed: “It’s the Princess Consort!”

In just a moment, the area below the city tower was almost packed to capacity; likely, half the civilians of Longyi had come. Shen Miao looked down and slowly began to speak.

“Fellow citizens, recently there have been many rumors. The remnants of the Lu family and the rebels of the Ye family persistently entangle us, even attacking Longyi, intending to confuse people’s hearts.”

In the wind, her voice was neither high nor low, seemingly having the power to comfort people, yet full of determination, making people feel the resolve in her tone.

“However, don’t believe them lightly. I swear in the name of the Princess Rui Consort, as long as the city stands, I stand; if the city falls, I fall. I am with you, and I will fight with you!”

There was a commotion below the city, with some doubting, some believing.

“Daliang’s soldiers are conquering outside, and I am in Longyi, also a part of the Xie family of Longyi. The glory of the Xie family does not fade, nor do I flee. A military family does not produce cowards. We may be defeated, but we will not flee. Moreover, how can mere remnants disrupt the court? Laughable!”

Her words were resounding yet not overly eloquent. People looked up at the woman in the purple-gold robe. With her chin slightly raised, she momentarily reminded people of the young prince conquering outside—equally arrogant, but rightfully so.

“Therefore, do not believe, do not speak, do not fear, do not cower.”

“I am here in this palace. Let’s see who dares to come!”

The purple cape fluttered in the wind, with banners flying high behind her.

The civilians below were silent for a moment, then erupted in cheers, their voices shaking the heavens, seemingly reaching beyond the clouds!

Everyone loves victory. The people needed comfort, and more than that, they needed majestic oaths. With the ruler absent, this woman could shoulder the great cause, with courage and bravery, earning admiration and giving reassurance.

The support was overwhelming.

And the civil and military officials standing behind her, seeing this scene, were all moved.

The power of words is such. This woman seemed able to stir people’s hearts, touching the most fervent part, making their blood boil, and invisibly strengthening the gates of Longyi city.

Shen Miao turned and left.

In the following days, the rumors in Longyi were quelled. Even if mischief-makers tried to stir trouble, the civilians would immediately rebuke them. After all, on that day, Shen Miao had personally ascended the palace tower in such dangerous circumstances, speaking words that inspired hearts. Once the civilians settled down, the power of their collective heart showed.

However, the Lu and Ye rebels intensified their attacks outside the city, appearing utterly frenzied.

Shen Miao had to read the daily memorials while arranging for imperial guards to reinforce the city defenders, busy all day. Being pregnant, she began to feel somewhat powerless.

On this day, she had just risen early when Luo Tan came running in. Seeing her, she said: “Little cousin, someone has come to see you.”

Shen Miao frowned: “Who?” In the palace, apart from speaking with court officials during morning court, no one specifically came to see her. In Longyi, she had no close friends; the closest were already in the palace.

“Let me help you out to see,” Luo Tan said.

Luo Tan supported Shen Miao out to the main hall, where someone sat at the table. Jingzhe was pouring tea for this person. The visitor wore a blue robe fluttering in the breeze, still as proud as in her memory.

Shen Miao cried out in surprise: “Master Pei?”

Pei Lang turned his head.

After nearly a year apart, too many things had happened in that year. When Pei Lang chose to leave, from certain perspectives, it was already the best choice. After all, with memories of the previous life, who knew how they should feel toward each other.

Seeing Shen Miao, he merely smiled slightly: “I heard Longyi is in trouble, and the palace is in danger. Though I don’t have any special skills, at least I can share some of the burden.”

Shen Miao frowned, not speaking for a moment.

Pei Lang smiled: “Don’t overthink it. I’m from Mingqi; in Daliang, at least we’re compatriots. Besides, we once had a teacher-student relationship, so we’re not completely without connection. Consider this as me helping a fellow countrywoman.”

He appeared to smile naturally, as if nothing had ever happened. Shen Miao examined him carefully and saw that his expression was open, as if he had let go of the past, which made her feel relieved.

For Shen Miao, that period of the past was now almost a distant memory. She was more focused on the future, and Pei Lang’s appearance could indeed help her share many difficulties.

She said: “I’ll owe you another favor.” Last time, it was also Pei Lang who took a knife for her.

Pei Lang said softly: “Owe?” Then he smiled again and said: “It’s good that you can think like that.” When he raised his head to look at Shen Miao again, he said: “Let’s not waste time. Let’s start dealing with Longyi’s most urgent matters.”

…

What was currently Longyi’s most urgent matter? Naturally, it was clearing out the rebel remnants and protecting the safety of civilians within the city. Various court affairs due to the war resulted in endless memorials. Relying solely on the pregnant Shen Miao to manage everything was already quite forced. Moreover, with her delivery imminent, she truly couldn’t handle such a commotion.

After Pei Lang’s arrival, the burden on Shen Miao lightened somewhat.

Pei Lang had previously been Fu Xiuyi’s advisor, so he naturally understood these court affairs. Moreover, he had a natural talent in this area, being thorough in all aspects. Even though it was his first time in Daliang’s court, he handled it with ease.

However, there was still one difficulty: Longyi’s manpower was sufficient to protect the civilians within the city, but diverting additional forces to clear out the rebels would leave them stretched thin. No one dared take this risk, but continuing this stalemate was not a solution either.

“If we delay for another month until Xie Jingxing returns, these rebels can be eliminated,” Shen Miao said to Pei Lang. “We just need to hold on through this period.”

Pei Lang was helping read the memorials. Neither of them mentioned the previous life or anything even slightly sensitive related to it, as if it were an unspoken past between them. Clarifying wouldn’t bring any benefit; sometimes, pretending not to know was the best way to get along.

When Pei Lang saw the foolish Ye Hongguang, he was stunned for a long time, probably realizing how remarkably similar Ye Hongguang and Fu Ming looked. Therefore, he was especially gentle with Ye Hongguang, and Ye Hongguang enjoyed playing with the patient Pei Lang.

“Although that’s true,” Pei Lang was somewhat worried, “the Lu family rebels also understand this principle. The city guards reported the day before yesterday that the Lu family rebels haven’t made any moves yet. When things are unusually quiet, it often means something is brewing. I feel they are preparing something.”

“No matter what they’re preparing, our situation won’t change a bit,” Shen Miao sighed. “I originally thought Daliang’s borders were securely guarded. Longyi was supposed to be impregnable. Even if there were movements, they would just be mutual suspicions among court officials. Who knew the Lu family still had another move?”

“The Lu family hates the royal family to the bone, so knowing they had no hope of victory, they still held back a move at the last moment.”

“The old villain isn’t worth mourning,” Shen Miao held a memorial, her gaze looking outside the window. “But Longyi cannot be lost. Not a single step can be yielded.”

Luo Tan walked over with a food basket, smiling: “You two have been reading memorials for so long, you need to eat. Especially you, little cousin. You’re not just one person now; you have a child too. If you starve yourself, you’re making my future niece or nephew go hungry too. What kind of mother is that?” She took out pastries and soup from the basket, saying: “Master Pei, please eat something too. I watched these being made in the kitchen, guaranteeing—they’re very clean!”

Luo Tan spent her days in the palace with little to do. Since she couldn’t help Shen Miao and Pei Lang with the memorials, she focused all her attention on Shen Miao’s child. With so many people in the palace, food required extreme caution; many women had lost their children inexplicably through what they ate. Luo Tan simply moved a small stool to the imperial kitchen every day, supervising. Even with Tao Guniang, Jingzhe, and Guyu present, she insisted on personally watching the cooking process.

Shen Miao smiled slightly: “Thank you for your hard work.”

Pei Lang’s gaze fell on Shen Miao’s protruding belly. After a moment’s hesitation, he asked: “It should be… around these days, right?”

“It’s hard to say exactly,” Shen Miao said. “But I feel it should be soon.” She stroked her belly, a flash of tenderness passing through her eyes: “Being born in such chaotic times, it’s really hard on the child.”

“What chaos?” Luo Tan said. “Little cousin, that’s not right. You should know that now the world is peaceful, the chaotic era is settled, and it’s a prosperous time. When the brother-in-law returns, that little one will have a father who won the war. The whole world will celebrate and bless the child’s birth. Such an honor isn’t something everyone can encounter. How can such a good thing sound like a bad thing in your words?”

Shen Miao laughed: “You’re so good with words. Why don’t you go perform in plays or storytelling?”

Luo Tan was proud: “If I went into performing, I’d be the best in the world.”

Seeing the two of them chatting happily, Pei Lang also shook his head with a smile and said: “Let’s just get through this period. I just hope the rebel remnants don’t create other incidents at this time.”

Heaven doesn’t always grant human wishes. Pei Lang’s words inadvertently became a prophecy two days later.

The more critical the moment, the less room there was for any slip. If they could just endure this period until Xie Jingxing returned to resolve Longyi’s danger, whether rebels or bandits, they would forever vanish from Daliang’s soil. From then on, with Mingqi and Qin gone, there would only be one Daliang, and this prosperous empire would fall into Xie Jingxing’s hands.

Even if they fled to the ends of the earth, these people would be like ants, like stray dogs, never finding peace.

They never planned to leave alive from the beginning, otherwise, they wouldn’t have attacked Longyi. But the premise was to kill Shen Miao and the child in her womb; only then would this fight to the death be worthwhile. Now, watching the days pass one by one, with the civilians not successfully incited and the royal family stable, the rebels grew anxious. They were eager to throw all of Longyi into chaos, so that when Xie Jingxing returned, he would face a mess and the shock of his wife and child’s tragic death.

So two days later, they launched a frenzied attack on Longyi.

Just as Pei Lang had guessed, unusual events often hide sinister intentions. They had formulated a detailed plan, which was originally Lu Maocai’s arrangement for forcing the emperor’s hand, but now it was unexpectedly used against this unmanned imperial city.

But as Shen Miao had said, no matter what, their situation would not change one bit because of this.

In Lu Maocai’s plan, the Lu family soldiers were supposed to deal with the royal guards. Now these remnants didn’t have the Lu family soldiers’ valor, and the current royal guards weren’t as numerous as when Emperor Yongle was alive, so they were evenly matched.

Dispatching royal guards to protect the civilians naturally meant fewer people in the palace. Shen Miao’s situation was also very dangerous.

“Princess Consort, why not call more people back to the palace?” Eunuch Deng said. “The palace needs more people to be safe.”

“One or two more people would be useless, and too many would leave no one outside. Let it be,” Shen Miao said. “Let’s keep it this way. We just need to get through tonight. The bandits also need to rest. If they can’t take the city tonight, their morale will be greatly reduced. Tonight is the most tense moment. After tonight, the subsequent matters will be much easier.”

Tao Guniang was somewhat anxious: “But it sounds worrying. And Princess Consort, is the child in your belly alright?”

Shen Miao instinctively touched her belly. Perhaps due to the connection between mother and child, these days, she could very clearly feel the child kicking and moving in her belly, but tonight it was very quiet. She smiled and said: “Perhaps it’s asleep, knowing not to cause trouble at this time. Very well-behaved.”

Pei Lang said, “Since we’ve made up our minds, let’s stay here. But we should still be fully prepared. If anything happens, have the Moyu Army come over immediately to protect you and help you escape to a safe place first. Although the palace should be defended, life is most crucial. Even if the civilians eventually learn that you fled, they’ll know it was only at the last moment, and they won’t blame you. After all, you need to protect the royal bloodline.”

Shen Miao nodded: “That’s what I was thinking too.”

“Then let’s all stay alert,” Luo Tan said. “Now is a crucial night. We’re all in the imperial palace, and at such times, we need to be united. Remember, there’s no hurdle we can’t overcome. We’ve endured almost a year; now we’re just facing some nameless rats. Why fear them?”

Having grown up with the Luo family, Luo Tan had a natural spirit of valor and courage. The more dangerous the situation, the less afraid she was. Her words stirred the blood of everyone in the palace. Even the maids and eunuchs of Weiyang Palace knelt, all saying they would share the fate of the imperial palace.

It wasn’t quite that desperate yet.

Shen Miao sat upright in the center of the hall. The hall was spacious, perhaps too spacious, making it seem somewhat empty. Pei Lang sat to the side, turning the pages of memorials. Shen Miao looked at some documents that court officials had sent at noon. As for Luo Tan, she had found a nine-linked rings puzzle to fiddle with. Tao Guniang and Eunuch Deng stood to the side, occasionally reheating tea. Everyone seemed to have their tasks, appearing quite busy.

This diluted the tense atmosphere somewhat.

But only somewhat, because royal guards frequently reported on the situation in the city. Those rebels were truly brutal, slaughtering civilians everywhere, seemingly determined to oppose the royal family, causing panic everywhere. Fortunately, Shen Miao had dispatched most of the royal guards, along with the city defenders, to engage with the Lu family people in endless fighting. For the moment, neither side had the upper hand.

These rebels were very cunning. One part disrupted civilian hearts, while another secretly flanked, attempting to attack the palace. Hearing the distant sounds of weapons clashing outside, along with occasional shouts from soldiers and intermittent flashes of fire, no one could truly remain calm.

It was like a bow, sometimes drawn to its fullest, then slightly released, only to be fully drawn again. Every action affected people’s hearts, making it difficult to find peace.

This night was exceptionally long, so long that even the incense smoke from the burner seemed to rise especially slowly, dispersing in the air, emitting a quiet fragrance, yet keeping hearts in throats.

As the first light of dawn appeared, the commotion outside gradually diminished.

Eunuch Deng and Tao Guniang also showed expressions of relief.

The head of the royal guards came in from outside and said to Shen Miao: “Reporting to the Princess Consort, the Lu family rebels have retreated outside the city, and the bandits within the city have been cleared. The city defenders are now comforting the civilians.”

The crisis had passed.

Luo Tan stretched lazily. She had fiddled with the nine-linked rings all night without solving it, though it wasn’t a matter of intelligence; her mind hadn’t been on the puzzle all night, so solving it would have been miraculous. She yawned, showing excitement despite her fatigue, and said: “Little cousin, now that the crisis is over, I stayed up with you all night, so I should get at least a little credit, right?”

Shen Miao looked up. She was better off than Luo Tan; apart from looking somewhat tired, she wasn’t as drowsy. She just smiled and said: “Everyone has worked hard. When His Highness returns, everyone will be rewarded according to their merits.”

The guard leader also smiled and said: “The Princess Consort has also worked hard.”

Being able to remain calm at such a critical moment, even sitting in the palace all night—in a way, she had fought alongside them. For a woman to accomplish this was particularly admirable. Moreover, everyone had seen clearly what kind of person Shen Miao had been these days. Without her leading and stabilizing Longyi, the city would likely be in complete chaos by now.

Pei Lang also looked up from the memorials, glancing at Shen Miao with a slight smile, seemingly relieved.

Tao Guniang was most concerned about Shen Miao’s condition and said, “Since everything is fine now, the Princess Consort should rest first. Sitting up all night without closing your eyes is too much even for ordinary people, let alone someone with a child.” She came over to support Shen Miao.

As Tao Guniang helped her, Shen Miao had just taken a step when she felt a sinking sensation in her abdomen. She immediately halted.

Seeing this, Luo Tan said: “Is it because you’ve been sitting too long and your body is stiff? Let me help you massage it. When people’s legs go numb, it’s like this—even taking a step is difficult.”

“It’s not that,” Shen Miao forced herself to remain calm. She said: “Please get a midwife for me first.”

Tao Guniang and Luo Tan were both startled, but Tao Guniang quickly reacted. She couldn’t tell whether she was more excited or alarmed as she said: “Quick! Bring those two midwives from the palace!”

…

The midwives were the best midwives, renowned far and wide in Longyi for their skills in delivering babies. Even the most difficult births were simple matters in their hands. For safety, Tao Guniang had summoned two of them.

The leading midwife, Old Lady Li, said: “Princess Consort, don’t be nervous. For women, childbirth is always difficult the first time. Once you’ve been through it once, you won’t be so afraid the next time. It gets much smoother.”

Old Lady Liu, who was older than Old Lady Li, scolded: “What nonsense are you talking in front of the noble lady?” Then she looked at Shen Miao, marveling: “But the Princess Consort is indeed very calm. This old woman has delivered babies for so many girls, but this is the first time seeing someone so composed.”

Shen Miao was helped to lie on the bed. Her expression was calm, as if she didn’t take this matter to heart. From beginning to end, she hadn’t shown any anxiety, making people almost believe this wasn’t her first time giving birth. But even for a second birth, women wouldn’t be this relaxed.

Shen Miao knew clearly that she wasn’t as calm as she appeared. Her memories of children went back to long ago. At that time, Fu Xiuyi didn’t care much about her, and childbirth seemed to have been very difficult. She had given birth to children while filled with anxiety.

But this child was coming into the world with everyone’s expectations. Whether it was Xie Jingxing and herself, or Empress Xiande and Emperor Yongle, or the Shen family knowing she was pregnant—they would all surely treasure this child. The more one cherishes something, the more one fears it being broken.

Concern leads to confusion. She forced herself to take deep breaths, discarding the jumbled thoughts in her mind.

“Princess Consort, please sit up and eat something first.” Old Lady Li took some brown sugar water and eggs from the side and brought them to Shen Miao. “Eating something gives you strength. Childbirth still takes some time; we have to wait a while.”

Shen Miao accepted it. She actually had no appetite but still managed to finish everything over the course of the night.

“The Princess Consort doesn’t have an ounce of daintiness,” Old Lady Liu praised. “Those young wives in the past often had some small temperaments. If they were ladies from wealthy families, they were even more picky. When told to eat something, they refused, saying they felt unwell. Later, when they didn’t have the strength to give birth, they suffered for it. The Princess Consort is very sensible. This way, the birth will surely go smoothly.”

Seeing Shen Miao’s gentle expression and that she didn’t discriminate against their rural background, the midwife spoke with familiarity rather than excessive formality.

Shen Miao knew they were talking to help distract her, making time pass more quickly. After all, the birth hadn’t even begun yet.

Outside, Tao Guniang and the others were all waiting. Luo Tan said: “My heart is beating so fast. I wonder if little cousin will have a boy or a girl. I’ve been curious for so long; finally, there will be an answer.”

“Whether it’s a young master or a young princess, His Highness the Prince will surely be very happy and doting when he returns,” Tao Guniang smiled. “Just don’t know how long we’ll have to wait.”

Eunuch Deng also appeared somewhat nervous: “This is, after all, the first young member of the royal family. Her Highness the Empress and His Majesty, Her Highness the Empress Dowager, if their spirits in heaven are aware, will also feel comforted.”

And the people at the Prince Rui Mansion were even more anxious.

Even Mo Qing, who usually kept his emotions hidden, looked red-faced with anticipation. Cong Yang was jumping up and down, saying: “Before leaving, I made a bet with Tieyi. I bet it would be a little princess, and I wagered all my possessions. If I lose, I won’t even have enough for a bride price.”

Jingzhe happened to overhear and snorted: “I think it will be a young master.”

“Hey, why must it be a young master?” Cong Yang asked. “I think it’s a little princess.”

“It’s a young master, it’s a young master!” Jingzhe refused to back down.

“Stop arguing,” Guyu mediated. “What’s all this noise? Where’s Uncle Tang?”

Uncle Tang was in the corner, reciting “Amitabha” while quietly saying: “I pray to the Xiao family ancestors to bless the Princess Consort for a safe delivery, mother and daughter’s safety, everyone’s safety…”

From morning until afternoon, by evening, Shen Miao was finally ready to give birth.

The midwives instructed the palace maids to prepare clean water, towels, clean scissors, and various backup items. Luo Tan wanted to go in and look, but Tao Guniang dissuaded her. Tao Guniang and several palace maids went in, along with Jingzhe and Guyu, to ensure no one would harm the mother or child.

Shen Miao moaned softly on the bed.

She tried to endure, but the pain came in waves, each stronger than the last, until finally it became excruciating. This pain was worse than any physical pain she had experienced since her rebirth, almost as if someone was stirring her abdomen with scissors.

“Princess Consort, push harder, use more strength!” Old Lady Li said. “I can see the shadow of the child!”

…

Outside, Pei Lang and the others felt like the day was lasting years.

Palace maids frequently carried in and out silver basins, the blood in them alarmingly vivid. Luo Tan anxiously grabbed a nearby matron and asked: “What’s happening? Why is there so much blood?”

The matron comforted her: “It’s alright. Women always bleed when giving birth. Don’t worry.”

Pei Lang’s thoughts had drifted far away.

In the previous life, Fu Xiuyi hadn’t cared at all about the births of Fu Ming and Wanyu. He happened to be passing by then, and Fu Xiuyi had him go look in his stead.

When Shen Miao gave birth in her previous life, in a sense, it was Pei Lang who accompanied her through it. Unexpectedly, in this life, with Xie Jingxing absent, it was also he who accompanied her.

This was also good. At least at such a moment, she wasn’t alone. At least he had been able to accompany her at this time.

Each moment was exceptionally long. After an unknown amount of time, they heard an exclamation from a midwife inside: “It’s coming out! It’s a young master! Oh, there’s another one!”

“It’s twins! Twins! The Princess Consort is so blessed!”

Immediately after, there was a loud “wah” as the infant’s cry rang out clearly.

Everyone was overjoyed. Luo Tan almost fainted from happiness! But before they could catch their breath, they heard Old Lady Li’s alarmed cry: “Princess Consort, hold on! Don’t sleep! Don’t sleep!”

Pei Lang’s heart tightened. Before he could react, he heard Tao Guniang’s grief-stricken voice: “Princess Consort, hang on!”

Luo Tan, being impulsive, could no longer hold back her fear and entered the room. Pei Lang hesitated, then heard Tao Guniang call: “Master Pei! Master Pei, come in!”

Pei Lang rushed into the room. Shen Miao was covered with blankets, her face extremely pale. She said to Old Lady Liu and Old Lady Li beside her: “It’s alright. The children are safe, that’s what matters.”

“Princess Consort…” Old Lady Liu and Old Lady Li wanted to say something but couldn’t find the words.

“What’s going on?” Luo Tan was about to cry from anxiety. “What’s wrong with little cousin? Why is she saying such things when everything seems fine?”

“The Princess Consort’s body was already weak before. This birth is twins. She was distracted and tired before delivery, and the pregnancy wasn’t stable. Now her body is extremely exhausted, and she’s lost too much blood…” Old Lady Liu couldn’t continue.

“This birth has been very difficult. I… I fear I won’t make it. Cousin, when you see my parents and brother, tell them I’m sorry for being unfilial, unable to serve them in their old age.”

Luo Tan shook her head desperately, saying: “Little cousin, I can’t be the one to say such things. Don’t talk nonsense. You’ll be fine, lively, and well when you see Uncle and Aunt. Saying such things is truly unfilial. Stop it, stop it!” By the end, her voice was choked with sobs, almost uncontrollable.

Shen Miao smiled helplessly, then looked at Pei Lang.

Pei Lang’s expression was dazed, his lips trembling slightly, showing none of his usual calm composure.

“No, you can hold on,” he said. “I haven’t repaid what I owe you yet. You must live a long life, healthy and worry-free.” He seemed to be forcing himself to believe this.

“Master Pei doesn’t owe me anything anymore. If you truly want to repay me, then… then promise me, protect my children. I hope they can grow up healthy.” She breathed with effort, as if she had used all her strength, and said: “When you see Xie Jingxing, tell him I’m sorry, I couldn’t wait. Thank him for always protecting me, tolerating me. Being his wife, I… I was very happy…”

“Princess Consort!” Tao Guniang called out.

“Let me see my children…” she said.

The two midwives hastily wiped the babies clean, wrapped them in swaddling clothes, and brought them to Shen Miao’s side. Tao Guniang said tearfully: “They’re two young masters, very healthy.”

Shen Miao’s gaze fell on the two children. She laboriously reached out her fingers to trace the babies’ features, saying softly: “These two children will surely have beautiful features when they grow up. Whether they resemble their father or mother… Xie Jingxing and I have suffered a lot. If heaven is kind, it surely wouldn’t let them suffer too.”

Tao Guniang had already begun wiping away tears.

Luo Tan turned her head away, using the back of her hand to wipe tears.

“I so wish to watch you grow up…” Her gaze lingered on the two children, with deep, deep affection, as if through the faces of the two babies, she was seeing someone thousands of miles away.

“I miss you so much…”

Her voice gradually weakened.

Thousands of miles away in a large tent, the young commander suddenly felt a pain in his chest. The pain spread from his chest to every corner of his body, so painful that he couldn’t help but bend over. He leaned against the edge of the table, breathing heavily.

Gaoyang lifted the tent flap and entered. Seeing this, he was startled and quickly reached out to check his pulse. After checking, he remarked with surprise: “There’s no problem. What’s wrong with you?”

Xie Jingxing frowned, then suddenly said: “Tomorrow we attack Xunyang.”

“Why this sudden decision?” Gaoyang was startled.

“Quick battle, quick victory.” Xie Jingxing turned and walked out.

…

Daliang captured Xunyang of Qin. With this, the three-kingdom division that had persisted for over a hundred years was finally broken by the young Prince Rui. The contention among heroes thus concluded, and the grand vision and enterprise ultimately fell to Daliang.

The victor becomes the king, the loser a bandit. The Qin Emperor fled, only to be annihilated midway. In the world, there would only be the Daliang Emperor; there would no longer be a Mingqi Emperor or a Qin Emperor.

History only remembers the victors. Though the people of fallen nations suffer, if the old monarch ruled with tyranny and the new king treats the people with kindness and generosity, the hearts of the people will ultimately lean toward the generous side.

The people aren’t fools. Since ancient times, there has been talk of returning kindness for kindness. A wise ruler will gain support wherever they are.

Daliang’s soldiers were returning home.

Returning victorious from war is always a matter of honor. Families with members who joined the army and were still alive naturally felt proud. Even for those who returned wrapped in horsehide, though grieved, they still felt pride.

The civilians of Longyi were almost jubilant, waiting for the victorious army to return.

Compared to the bustling outside, the palace was quiet.

Luo Tan sat in the courtyard. The autumn sun, rarely so warm, felt cozy on her skin. The courtyard was covered with books, with Jingzhe and Guyu airing them out.

Looking at this, Luo Tan laughed and said: “Back in Xiaochun City, she always took these books out to air. I thought books don’t spoil, so what’s the point, but she was still so particular about it. Unexpectedly, now I’m the one voluntarily doing these things for her.”

The blue-robed man standing beside her didn’t speak.

Pei Lang seemed to have aged significantly overnight. He did things in silence. Without Shen Miao’s instructions, he couldn’t read the memorials. Every day, he just read books, unable to do anything else. Such futile days seemed to cause him great pain.

There wasn’t a trace of joy to be seen in the palace.

Tao Guniang came out carrying the two children. Luo Tan quickly stood up and took one.

“The young masters are very healthy,” Tao Guniang smiled. “The wet nurse says they’re very well-behaved at night, not making any fuss.”

Luo Tan’s face also showed some smiles as she said: “Being so well-behaved, they take after their mother’s temperament.” Her voice abruptly stopped.

Pei Lang’s gaze fell on the two children, his eyes slightly dimming.

“Which is the older brother, which is the younger brother? I really can’t tell them apart,” Luo Tan changed the subject. “They look identical. If it’s like this now, what will we do in the future?”

Tao Guniang smiled: “It doesn’t matter. In the future, they can be dressed differently to tell them apart. Besides, as children grow, their temperaments are different; naturally, they can be distinguished.”

“But what should we call them?” Luo Tan worried. “Which is the older brother, which is the younger brother? Little cousin didn’t even have time to name them…” She paused, then laughed ruefully: “I keep saying I won’t mention it, but I always do. Never mind.”

Seeing this, Tao Guniang wanted to console her, but then Guyu and Jingzhe hurriedly came in from outside. Guyu said: “The Prince has returned!”

“What?” Pei Lang and Luo Tan were both startled. According to the pace of Daliang’s army, they should still be more than a month away from returning to the capital.

“The Prince brought troops back ahead of the main force,” Guyu said softly. “But the Madam…”

After a pause, Pei Lang finally said softly: “Let’s go see.”

Xie Jingxing strode toward the palace. In just a year, too many things had changed. Emperor Yongle and Empress Xiande had both passed away, and the vast palace seemed to have become much quieter.

Eunuch Deng smiled and said: “Your Highness, go see the two young masters first. Tao Guniang and Miss Luo are playing with them.”

Xie Jingxing frowned: “Where is Shen Miao?”

Before he finished speaking, he saw Luo Tan and Tao Guniang walking around the screen from behind the main hall, each carrying a child, with Pei Lang following behind.

The infants in the swaddling clothes had just awakened and were lively, waving their little hands. Their chubby little hands in the sunlight looked especially adorable.

Xie Jingxing’s steps halted.

“Where is Shen Miao?” he slowly asked.

Pei Lang stepped forward and said softly: “Go see her.”

…

Gao Zhan stroked his completely white beard and shook his head: “This old man has done his utmost to preserve her life. This body was already like a lamp without oil, but she had a strong will to live, perhaps due to unresolved matters, unwilling to let go of her last breath. With that last breath, this old man used golden needles to seal her acupoints, saving her life, but that’s all that was saved—just her life.”

“Grandfather, what does that mean?” Gaoyang asked. He had left home many years ago. From the time he embarked on an official career, his ideals had diverged from the Gao family’s, leading to his expulsion. It had been many years since he had any dealings with the Gao family. This address of “Grandfather” made Gao Zhan’s body tremble slightly.

“It means she might sleep forever. Though she has breath and a pulse, she may never wake up, never open her eyes. Or if she does wake up,” he looked at Gaoyang, “like the Ye family young master you treated, what she will be like after waking, no one can know.”

In other words, when Shen Miao woke up, she might become foolish like Ye Hongguang. But more likely, she would just sleep like this year after year, finally dying of old age without ever opening her eyes to look at Xie Jingxing.

“Isn’t that…” Ji Yushu swallowed the words “living dead.” But even if he didn’t say it, everyone around understood Gao Zhan’s meaning.

“In that case,” Gao Zhan asked Xie Jingxing, “Your Highness, are you still willing to wait?”

“No matter how long, it doesn’t matter,” Xie Jingxing said. “She fulfilled her promise, waiting for my return. How could I not wait for her for a lifetime? Her life is mine. Without my permission, even the King of Hell cannot take her away.” As he spoke, his brow and eyes were cold and severe, showing Emperor Yongle’s iciness, yet still carrying his wildness, as if nothing mattered in his eyes.

Everyone fell silent.

Shen Miao closed her eyes, unable to hear these sounds. She seemed to be sleeping very peacefully. Luo Tan said, “Let’s go out. Let her rest for a few days. This past year, she hasn’t had a good rest.”

…

Xie Jingxing was extremely good to the twin infants.

Those who had followed him for many years, including friends, nearly dropped their jaws seeing his patience. It’s said that young fathers, though happy when becoming fathers, due to their naturally rough nature and lack of attention to detail, often resist taking care of children.

And Xie Jingxing’s temperament seemed to have nothing to do with “gentle patience.”

But he indeed exceeded everyone’s expectations, spending time with the two children every day. He took care of their needs without complaint and was very picky about the wet nurses. This big man paid attention to every detail. The two children currently only had pet names, both given by Xie Jingxing: one called “Chuyi” (First Day) and one called “Shiwu” (Fifteenth Day).

Everyone thought these pet names were too casual, but Xie Jingxing was insistent: “The moon is fullest on the first and fifteenth. Besides, they’re my sons. What does it matter to you what names they have? Get lost.”

Everyone had no choice but to get lost.

But while he could ignore many things—ignore naming conventions, ignore childcare protocols—there were still matters that had to be addressed.

Emperor Yongle’s decree of succession was known throughout the court. Now that peace reigned, Xie Jingxing would ascend the throne. The ascension would happen naturally, but what about establishing an empress?

Who would it be?

Shen Miao was currently lying there, perhaps never to wake again, or perhaps to wake as a fool. Throughout history, there had been no precedent for such an empress.

It seemed unlikely. The future was too long, and human hearts change easily. Xie Jingxing could claim unwavering faithfulness to Shen Miao now, but who could say what the future held?

Luo Tan was very discontented when she learned of this. The Shen family army had returned with Daliang’s troops but had not yet reached Longyi. Therefore, they didn’t know about Shen Miao’s condition. As Shen Miao’s only relative present, Luo Tan was unwilling to see Shen Miao suffer any injustice. She was even more unhappy that Shen Miao had sacrificed everything yet gained nothing in return.

She couldn’t blame Xie Jingxing because he hadn’t done anything wrong, so she recounted all of Shen Miao’s hardships over the past year. She told him how Shen Miao, heavily pregnant, had guarded Longyi, the palace, and the dignity of the Daliang royal family for him. How many times, in critical moments, despite the danger, Shen Miao had persevered. She didn’t have to do all this.

Xie Jingxing listened to Luo Tan’s words in silence, then looked at her with a half-smile for a while and said: “So?”

Luo Tan didn’t know what to say and replied: “So, as long as you know in your heart.” She couldn’t describe the feeling in her heart—it felt blocked, bitter, yet she didn’t know how to relieve it. As she ran, she bumped into someone. Looking up, it was Gaoyang.

Gaoyang was puzzled and asked what was wrong. Luo Tan glared at him fiercely and walked away.

Xie Jingxing walked to the edge of the pond. He had intended to drink tea but ended up asking Eunuch Deng to remove the tea and bring a pot of wine instead.

By this pond, under the moon in the pavilion, Empress Xiande and Emperor Yongle had shared their last snow wine. Everyone sighed at the deep love between the emperor and empress, yet heaven was unkind. On the surface, he seemed luckier than Emperor Yongle; at least he was still alive, and while alive, anything was possible.

But what if Shen Miao never woke up? Would such a life lose much of its meaning? Xie Jingxing didn’t have a strong passion for the throne and empire. If he also lost the person by his side and lived a lifeless existence for the rest of his life, it would truly be a sad thing.

Footsteps approached, and looking toward the sound, it was Pei Lang.

Pei Lang was like a clear breeze after rain, a true gentleman who seemed to never touch alcohol. Seeing such a person, one would think he should be like a pure bamboo, drinking tea and playing the zither, a solitary scholar. Yet he sat across from Xie Jingxing, independently found a wine cup, and poured himself a drink.

The jade wine cup emitted a faint glow in the moonlight, intoxicating even before drinking.

Pei Lang said: “Tomorrow you will ascend the throne. Congratulations.”

Xie Jingxing curled his lip in a smile, but there was no great joy to be seen.

“What about her?” Pei Lang asked directly. “What do you plan to do?”

Xie Jingxing slowly turned his head, staring at Pei Lang for a moment before saying: “Master Pei is very concerned?”

“I previously had a teacher-student relationship with the Princess Consort,” Pei Lang remained unmoved, continuing calmly. “And during the capital’s crisis, we shared hardships. I don’t intend to criticize or change anything, I’m merely curious.”

“Oh?” Xie Jingxing lowered his head to take a sip of wine, saying indifferently: “What do you think should be done?”

“The Princess Consort once mentioned that regarding the position of empress, or any power and status, she had no greed for it, and even found it burdensome. However, if it were her responsibility, she would also shoulder it. She is not a person with compassion for the entire world, but she is willing to take on responsibilities for those important to her heart.”

“These important people include her family from the Shen household, the child in her belly, and you.”

Pei Lang continued: “The Princess Consort said that her life has been particularly rough, and heaven has been quite harsh with her. Sometimes, thinking back, it seems she has never experienced any good times. So she never dared to hope for heaven’s favor. Her only hope was that those she loved would be safe and happy.”

Xie Jingxing’s eyes moved slightly.

Pei Lang turned to look at him and smiled: “She has never experienced any good times. Things that others obtain effortlessly, she had to rack her brains to acquire. Even small wishes were harder for her than for others. Now that the bitter times have finally given way to sweet ones, before she could taste the sweet dew, she has fallen into slumber. Heaven is indeed too unfair to her. But precisely because she never had extravagant expectations of people’s hearts, she is all the more pitiable and admirable.”

“Your Highness,” Pei Lang held his wine cup, smiling: “Now that you have achieved your great cause, with the throne in sight, mountains and rivers in your possession, perhaps beautiful women in the future as well. But I still must remind you of one thing: don’t let yourself have regrets.” His voice lowered: “If you regret, there will be no chance to turn back in this lifetime. Daily suffering is the true torment.”

Xie Jingxing looked at him thoughtfully and asked: “Have you regretted?”

Once, I spent my entire life trying to make amends. Although I recovered some things, what was lost can never be restored,” Pei Lang sighed.

The two fell silent. Just then, Tao Guniang hurriedly came over. Seeing Xie Jingxing and Pei Lang drinking together, she somewhat awkwardly said: “Your Highness, the two young masters are crying incessantly. The wet nurses and matrons have no way to calm them. You should go see them.”

Chuyi and Shiwu were comforted by Xie Jingxing daily, making their temperaments quite spoiled. No matter how others tried to console them, only Xie Jingxing could succeed. It was strange—Shen Miao had been very calm by nature and never caused trouble for others, yet these two children she bore seemed to have come to collect debts. Before it had been better, but since Xie Jingxing’s return, their tempers had grown exponentially. Fortunately, Xie Jingxing was patient with the children. If it had been any other young father, he would likely have given up already.

Xie Jingxing stood up and said, “I’ll go see.” Then he suddenly thought of something and turned to look at Pei Lang, staring at him and saying: “You’re quite an interesting person. However, thank you for your reminder.” He drained the remaining wine in his cup and said: “I never do things I’ll regret, nor do I do things that make others regret. You are overthinking.”

Xie Jingxing left with Tao Guniang. Watching their retreating figures, Pei Lang shook his head, smiling somewhat self-mockingly, and murmured: “Overthinking?” His expression gradually turned bitter: “Really, not leaving any chance at all, how hateful…”

…

On the day of Xie Jingxing’s ascension to the throne, the sky was bright, the day warm, and the breeze gentle.

His reign title was Xiaojing.

The nine-layered palace stood tall and majestic. In the golden throne hall, angry dragons danced. Officials stood before him, courtiers to the left and right. The young emperor wore a gold-ground silk-threaded peacock feather dragon robe. The yellow robe was intricately embroidered with golden dragon patterns using gold thread. The hem was fine and exquisite, majestic and imposing, so brilliantly golden that it was difficult to look at directly.

His appearance was extraordinarily handsome, his crown proper, yet he had a pair of irreverent phoenix eyes. Despite this, his gaze was like the October cool breeze, naturally carrying a sense of grim authority.

No one dared to underestimate this young emperor. Although he was the youngest to ever ascend the throne in Daliang’s history, he had truly carried the battle flag, been on the battlefield, and was a general who had swept through Qin and Mingqi. In court affairs, he was skilled in using cunning strategies, making people utterly embarrassed.

With the succession decree established and the imperial jade seal in hand, from now on, Daliang had a new master.

After the ceremony, he unexpectedly walked to the side, to everyone’s surprise. The court officials didn’t dare raise their heads until they heard the emperor’s voice: “Establish the empress.”

Everyone knew that the Princess Rui Consort was currently in a deep sleep. What kind of empire was he establishing? The officials were confused. Looking up, they saw the young emperor carrying a woman in his arms, placing her with great care on the empress’s throne beside him. His movements were as careful as if handling a priceless treasure.

Among the court officials, apart from Gaoyang, Ji Yushu, and a few others, the rest showed expressions of great shock. Someone stepped forward and said: “Your Majesty must not!”

“Oh?” Emperor Xiaojing turned his head, looking at him, his gaze shifting as he smiled: “Why not?”

“The… Madam has not yet awakened. How can someone unconscious be the mother of the nation?”

Never had they heard of any country’s empress being an unconscious person.

“Cannot be?” Emperor Xiaojing seemed to be deliberately teasing him, saying: “What if I insist? What then?”

That court official was an elder statesman whom Emperor Yongle had greatly respected when alive. He seemed quite confident and said: “Could it be that Your Majesty plans to leave the empress position vacant forever for her sake?”

The court officials were in an uproar.

An unconscious person eternally occupying the empress position, even if just in name, carried many implications. In the future, even if new beauties entered the palace, as long as this position was occupied, their children’s positions could never surpass Chuyi and Shiwu.

Emperor Xiaojing laughed lightly, laughing until the court officials were somewhat dazed, laughing until the official who had first spoken began to feel anxious.

Then the emperor said: “Vacant empress position? There is only one woman in my harem. How can one speak of vacancy?”

The entire court was shocked!

“Your Majesty…” the elder official was about to speak again.

“Minister Xu, I recall you have two young granddaughters, currently in their prime years,” Emperor Xiaojing said.

The man was startled, feeling apprehensive yet with a glimmer of secret joy. But in the next moment, the joy vanished as the emperor continued: “How about I betroth them to Song, the young commander of the Front Wu Pass?”

That Young Commander Song was young and promising, but unfortunately had lost an eye on the battlefield and would never have a career ahead of him.

“Minister Xu” immediately turned ashen.

“I didn’t come to hear your opinions, nor to listen to your criticisms. I am merely informing you of this result,” he sat on the throne, looking down at all his officials from above. “I am the emperor, the master. If any of you have opinions on my imperial decrees, feel free to express them. But if you wish to interfere with my harem, my private affairs, then I will certainly,” he pondered for a moment, “return it doubly.”

“When that time comes, don’t say I’m forcefully arranging marriages.” He smiled mischievously, momentarily returning to the handsome youth who used to ride horses lazily through the streets of Mingqi. But now, he had concealed all his sharp edges within his sheath. Though the scabbard looked beautiful, no one dared test whether the blade inside could cut through iron like mud.

“If you don’t believe me, feel free to try,” he said with a half-smile.

He truly didn’t seem like an emperor—not proper enough, not serious enough, yet more dangerous than previous emperors. Even compared to Emperor Yongle, he was not inferior. The more he appeared nonchalant, the more people felt anxious. Everyone knew that this Prince Rui was a black-hearted fellow. Once targeted by him, one wouldn’t even know how they died. Most importantly, he completely disregarded propriety and reputation, fearing nothing. People believed that marrying this minister’s granddaughter to another minister’s younger brother, or having this minister’s grandson marry his arch-enemy’s delicate daughter—Emperor Xiaojing would do such things.

It wasn’t just about being mismatched in status; the fear was that there would be controlling consequences. If these controls happened to target the wrong person, a family might not even know how they declined and perished.

No one dared to stake their family as a condition for any gamble.

Everyone thought, let it be, let it be. Currently, the times were sweet as honey. Let Emperor Xiaojing do as he wishes. Perhaps after some days, he would tire of it himself, or become infatuated with a new beauty. Men, when they love, truly love; when they don’t love, they truly don’t love anymore. Why should they do thankless things here?

Thinking this way, the court officials became resigned. They stopped saying anything, and some even flattered, saying Emperor Xiaojing and his wife had a deep conjugal love that would become a beautiful story.

Xie Jingxing coldly observed each official’s face, as if looking at the multitude of people in the world through masks of a thousand colors. Somewhat laughable, yet also pitiful.

He knelt on one knee before Shen Miao.

“A man’s knees have gold beneath them”—even for an ordinary man, such an action would be truly surprising. Moreover, he was not an ordinary person but the current emperor of Daliang, the master of the world. Yet he was kneeling almost reverently before a woman.

Shen Miao was properly supported by him, sitting upright on the high seat. She had also been dressed by Tao Guniang and Jingzhe in magnificent palace attire, with fine gold powder sprinkled at the corners of her eyes, appearing extremely magnificent. Wearing the brilliant gold empress’s court attire, she closed her eyes, her long eyelashes drooping, as if in slumber.

She was truly a beautiful and resilient woman. Gao Zhan had said Shen Miao had unfinished wishes, so she clung to life with her last breath, allowing Gao Zhan to save her life.

What was her final wish?

Was it to see Xie Jingxing once more, to watch Chuyi and Shiwu grow up, or to say goodbye to Shen Xin and the others?

Xie Jingxing leaned close to her ear and teased: “I’ve made you empress. Won’t you open your eyes to see?”

Shen Miao couldn’t hear his words. She slept in her world, as if she would continue sleeping like this for a long, long time, for a lifetime.

Xie Jingxing stared at her and said: “I know you’re tired. When you’ve slept enough, get up. Chuyi and Shiwu want their mother.” He reached out, holding Shen Miao’s cold hand through her sleeve, and said: “I miss you too.”

The court officials silently watched the young emperor do all this. They had been struggling in this court for many years, floating in the sea of officialdom, true and false, false and true, sometimes unable to distinguish even their hearts, let alone being moved by others. Moreover, Prince Rui had never been considered a good person before. Few officials here hadn’t been harmed by him, so they naturally hated him to the bone.

But at this moment, they somehow felt reluctant to disturb this scene. It was as if, through the image of the emperor and the woman, they glimpsed shadows of their youth.

Everyone falls in love, but whether that love can last a lifetime because it’s too difficult, so many people give up along the way. Those who make it to the end are as rare as phoenix feathers and unicorn horns.

Could Emperor Xiaojing do it?

Xie Jingxing adjusted the heavy empress’s crown, placing it properly on Shen Miao’s head. His movements were gentle yet solemn, as if along with the crown, he placed something else on her.

He leaned slightly forward and kissed the woman’s eyes.

Time blurred, rapidly rewinding, as if returning to a day long ago when he was still a carefree, unruly youth riding horses around the city, and she was still cautiously navigating the Mingqi royal family, protecting the Shen family with difficult steps. He had asked: “Shen Miao, do you want to be empress?”

No one had expected that in the end, he would actually become emperor, and she would indeed become empress.

The world had come full circle, returning to the beginning.

Behind the Golden Hall, Luo Tan, who was secretly watching, covered her mouth, seeming both ready to cry and laugh, and whispered: “He established little cousin as empress… Little cousin didn’t misjudge him…”

Behind her, Pei Lang also smiled slightly. His smile contained resignation, some wistfulness, but mostly gratification. He said: “How wonderful.”

…

Spring days with apricot blossoms in full bloom, a gentle breeze passing by, petals fluttering down, covering the ground with fragrance. Birds stood on branches chirping, everything appeared lively and bustling.

Half a year passed in the blink of an eye, so quickly that one could hardly grasp anything.

For the people of Longyi, this half year was extremely pleasant. Perhaps because Qin and Mingqi had been conquered, or perhaps because the new emperor’s ideas were indeed very different, in any case, Emperor Xiaojing was a very competent emperor.

He was very generous to the people, and many new edicts made the world applaud. There were street rumors that because Emperor Xiaojing liked to wander among the people when he was young, experiencing the sufferings of the common folk, he could always put himself in the people’s shoes.

Regardless, Emperor Xiaojing’s reputation among the people was very well-supported.

However, among the court officials, this wasn’t necessarily the case.

When Emperor Yongle was in power, he had to consider reputation in everything he did. But this Emperor Xiaojing was lawless—generous to the people but strict with his officials, not to mention showing any favoritism. Even those self-proclaimed senior officials couldn’t gain any advantage in front of him.

More frightening was how well he balanced various powers, and his sense of smell was sharper than a rat’s. Not only could he detect any movement, but he could also keenly discover even the slightest unusual thoughts. This caused many court officials to constantly suspect their households had informants, leading to frequent major cleanings in their mansions.

What the court officials were most dissatisfied with was that in this half year, Emperor Xiaojing had not taken a single beauty. The only person in his harem was the eternally sleeping Empress Shen.

This was truly perplexing. Initially, some people thought he was just momentarily feeling guilty toward Empress Shen, hence the promise. Besides, even if the empress position couldn’t be moved, taking some other women shouldn’t be a problem, right? But as days passed, this Emperor Xiaojing’s harem remained so clean that a bird could fly through it, and people realized he wasn’t just putting on an act.

Some suspected he had spoken so firmly that he now couldn’t lose face by going back on his word. So they “thoughtfully” sent their daughters to him, only to have Emperor Xiaojing betrothe them to the sons of their mortal enemies the next day. This shocked all the court officials.

Emperor Xiaojing’s methods were truly ruthless—betrothing them to enemies not only eliminated unwanted women but also balanced the situation and warned restless officials… killing three birds with one stone—too wicked.

Over time, the court officials no longer dared to arbitrarily send beauties to Emperor Xiaojing.

But rumors were inevitable. A young man in his prime with no woman besides his comatose wife made people wonder if he preferred men.

But once this rumor emerged, it didn’t seem to affect anything. What if the emperor preferred men? He still had two sons, so there was no worry about the succession of the empire. Besides, this crafty father would live for a very long time yet.

In short, the people submitted, and the officials complied.

The morning light was especially good. Tao Guniang handed the two children to Xie Jingxing, worriedly saying: “Your Majesty, are you taking the two young princes out… for a spring outing?”

Xie Jingxing, with one child in each arm, simply stepped into the carriage and said: “Yes.”

In the carriage, Shen Miao was sleeping. Xie Jingxing looked at her with a headache and said, “Sleeping for half a year, are you a pig?”

Chuyi and Shiwu waved their little hands, curiously turning to look at Xie Jingxing. Xie Jingxing called out to those outside: “Let’s go!”

Tieyi reluctantly raised the horse whip. The master had become emperor, and he, the leader of the Moyu Army, had become a coachman…

Xie Jingxing loved taking the children out for spring outings, though he was always strongly discouraged by Eunuch Deng and Uncle Tang. But his martial arts were too good; they simply couldn’t stop him. He always said he wanted the children to see mountains and waters while they were young, so they wouldn’t be easily blinded by the glamorous world later and would know what they truly wanted.

This was probably just an excuse; he just wanted to take Shen Miao out to play.

The carriage stopped at Zheyang Mountain. The scenery at the foot of the mountain was beautiful everywhere.

Xie Jingxing carried the children up. Mo Qing thoughtfully brought a small pot of rice porridge. Recently, Chuyi and Shiwu were learning to eat rice porridge, but the two children were extremely picky, making a huge fuss over drinking porridge.

Now, Tieyi held Chuyi, Mo Qing held Shiwu, and Xie Jingxing fed them porridge. The two little ones kicked their legs unwillingly, kicking people painfully in the chest.

Xie Jingxing’s temper flared, and he said: “Give me the children.”

He casually found a large red cloth strip that Jingzhe used to tie food baskets, tied Chuyi with the basket to his back, held Shiwu in his arms, and “forcefully” fed Shiwu the rice porridge.

Shiwu threw a tantrum. Xie Jingxing had the Moyu Army members move back, not allowing them to interfere, truly challenging the two little ones.

The dignified ruler of the nation, with one child tied to his back, another in his arms, a large red cloth strip tied around him, feeding porridge to one child with a deeply resentful expression.

The members of the Moyu Army could hardly bear to watch.

Shiwu began to cry loudly with a “wah,” and Chuyi on his back, as if sensing it, also began to cry loudly. Not only that, but Xie Jingxing suddenly felt a warm sensation on his body.

Great, they had urinated.

He was furious and was about to discipline the two little rascals when he suddenly heard Jingzhe exclaim: “Someone laughed!”

Everyone was startled.

Jingzhe, excited to the point of her voice trembling, pointed at the carriage: “I just heard it!”

Shen Miao was sleeping in the carriage.

The surroundings suddenly became quiet.

The mountain breeze gently brushed everyone’s faces, warm and slightly ticklish, as if even the sunlight was smiling.

In the silence, this time they heard it clearly—indeed, someone was laughing softly, a familiar laugh, with a sense of warmth.

Much later, Xie Jingxing strode over.

His hand trembled slightly, but finally, as if having made up his mind, he lifted the carriage curtain.

The woman’s features were gentle, like a begonia just waking from sleep. Her voice still carried a laziness, but the hidden fragments in her eyes betrayed her excited mood.

She tilted her head, smiling slightly, and said: “Long time no see, Young Master Xie.”