Since the Great Emperor had abdicated, Changchun Garden was more lively than the palace during the New Year. The Qi people had the custom of staying up on New Year’s Eve to bid farewell to the old year. The whole family would accompany their elders, sitting leisurely and playing tea games, only permitted to disperse after eating steamed buns at the midnight hour.

Today was New Year’s Eve, and the closest members of the imperial clan had to attend. Not only the princes and Beilei of the direct line but also Hong Zan and his brothers from the old Prince of Zhuang’s branch were all present. The old Prince of Zhuang and the Great Emperor were blood brothers—just these two brothers in the older generation—their affection naturally went without saying. However, the old Prince of Zhuang was a man who found solace in nature and had no desire to remain in power. Even from a young age, he wasn’t much of a homebody. His sons had studied in the Imperial Study from childhood, alongside the Great Emperor’s princes, under the old man’s tutelage. To the Great Emperor, they were like his own sons, so during festivals, he always reserved seats for them.

When Hong Ce entered the garden, it was still early. After paying his respects to the Great Emperor, he withdrew. In the distance, a young eunuch came forward, bowing, saying the princes were all in Yun Song Pavilion, inviting the Twelfth Prince to join them.

Yun Song Pavilion was originally where the princes studied in Changchun Garden. Before he was ten, he had spent over half a year there. It was a quiet place, on the eastern path of Changchun Garden. Passing through the Ruyi Gate and crossing a small bridge led to Wan Fang Studio, beyond which lay Yun Song Pavilion.

The weather remained poor. On New Year’s Eve, snow fell heavily, making it difficult to see clearly at a distance. The young eunuch held a cornel umbrella to guide his way. With the umbrella edge slightly raised, behind the pine needles was an exquisitely curved roof, thoroughly covered with snow, with only intermittent gray ridges visible.

The palace maid on duty curtsied upon seeing him arrive and held the curtain as he entered. The main hall was bustling—more than a dozen brothers rarely gathered together throughout the year, and when they met, they had endless conversations. But as soon as he crossed the threshold, they all fell silent, turning to look at him as if he were a stranger. His heart chilled, knowing that his investigation of Wen Lu’s case had gripped too tightly. The Enfeoffed Marquis of Pacifying the Nation, who ranked just below the Gushui Beizi, was a true member of the imperial clan. By reopening the old case and arresting him, he had inevitably made everyone fearful. In truth, among these princes and marquises, whether themselves or their servants, how many were truly free from corruption? If a thorough investigation were conducted, none could withstand it.

He pretended not to notice, entered, brushed off the snow on his body, and smiled, “Everyone’s here today.” He raised his hands in greeting. “Brothers, I’m late. Forgive me.”

The atmosphere seemed frozen. For a long time, no one responded, until the Thirteenth Prince came forward to save the situation. “You’re not late. Seventh Brother and Tenth Brother haven’t arrived yet.” He came over to pull his arm, gesturing toward the charcoal brazier. “It’s cold outside. Come warm up first. I have something to ask you.”

Hong Ce looked up and saw Hong Zan standing there, smiling and beckoning him over.

Everyone resumed their casual conversations, discussing crickets, quails, and monkeys—avoiding any topic that involved him, though they undoubtedly gossiped about him behind his back. He didn’t mind; after all, he couldn’t hear it and was content to be at ease. However, Hong Zan was truly composed. He appeared untroubled, though he must have been anxious inside, but he concealed it well.

He went over to pay his respects. “Third Brother, when did you arrive? Earlier, I passed through Baihua Deep Lane and looked for you but didn’t see your carriage. So you arrived early.”

Hong Zan continued to smile with cultured grace. “Just moments apart. I’ve only just arrived—the dampness on my robe hasn’t even dried. The snow is heavy today. Even north of the Changbai Mountains might not be this severe.”

The eunuch brought aged rice wine to warm him. He accepted it, took a sip, and said mildly, “Indeed, it has quite an impressive intensity, though compared to the northern regions, it still falls short. Third Brother, if you get the chance, you should go there and see. It’s cold to the bone, but the scenery is truly remarkable.”

Whether intentional or not, Hong Zan certainly detected a different flavor in his words. He waved his hands repeatedly. “I was born and raised in Beijing. Going to the outskirts, I fear I couldn’t endure it.”

Hong Ce smiled slightly. “It gets progressively colder, but you don’t notice it. When I first went to Khalkha, it was like that—once there, I got used to it. Besides, even someone like Seventh Brother, a man of leisure and luxury, after enduring the cold, still praised its beauty. It seems each place has its magnificence.”

They went back and forth, their words concealing sharp edges. The Thirteenth Prince had been learning official duties since he was seven and could detect such undercurrents. He maintained his composure, smiling as he changed the subject. “Government affairs all year round—during the New Year, aren’t people allowed to rest? Let’s not talk about the Changbai Mountains or Ninguta. The other day at Tenth Brother’s mansion, I saw something interesting. In the courtyard of the Tenth Prince’s mansion, they kept a chicken and a ‘great immortal’ freely roaming. These two got along quite well. Their nests weren’t far apart, and they would visit each other occasionally—truly good neighbors.”

The so-called “great immortal” was a yellow weasel. These creatures are natural enemies of chickens—predator and prey. That the Tenth Prince could foster friendship between them was truly astonishing.

Hong Zan shook his head repeatedly. “Old Ten loves to tinker with such things. Last time, I saw him keeping a cat and a parrot in the same cage, probably training them too. But later, it was said the bird was eaten by the cat, so he switched to raising yellow finches and praying mantises. This time, it seems he’s succeeded.”

The aged rice wine in Hong Ce’s hand had cooled, so he placed the cup on the table, smiling. “I don’t believe he could succeed. In a few days, go take a look—nine out of ten chances, the yellow weasel’s teeth have been pulled. Unable to bite the chicken’s neck, its predatory nature is extinguished.”

Everyone held their foreheads in laughter. Just then, a eunuch conveyed the Emperor’s verbal order summoning Hong Zan, who acknowledged it and followed him out.

Hong Run sat closer, and the two brothers spoke with heads together. Hong Run said, “The case you’re investigating is troublesome. Look at all these noble imperial relatives in the room—whose heart is at ease? I fear in the end, you’ll only make yourself the villain, causing everyone to resent you.”

How could he not know the risks? But at this point, the investigation had to proceed whether he wanted it to or not.

“I have received the imperial command; there’s no reason to abandon it midway. In such cases, whoever investigates makes enemies, just like when the Imperial Clan Court was reorganized years ago. Not being well-received—I know that. It’s been like this since childhood. I don’t mind one more instance.” He glanced at his younger brother. “Right now, I’m like wading across a river. The water reaches my neck—one step forward might lead to shallower ground or might submerge me completely. To deal with Hong Zan, I might need your help, though I fear it will put you in a difficult position given your good relationship with him.”

“Rest assured on that matter. I know who’s close and who’s distant. If he has committed crimes, I will show no favoritism.” Hong Run spoke and then smiled, saying in a low voice, “I heard about Twelfth Brother causing a commotion at Lang Run Garden a few days ago. Give my regards to Twelfth Sister-in-law when you return.”

At the mention of Ding Yi, Hong Ce smiled with sunny warmth. He lowered his head to stroke the sachet at his waist—a magpie carrying a copper coin, the embroidery not particularly skilled, yet it was crafted by her, stitch by stitch.

Seeing his expression, Hong Run leaned against the railing and sighed. “I wonder when I’ll meet that person. Father is urging me to take a consort, forgetting what he was like back then.” Realizing he had inadvertently made light of his brother’s mother, he quickly closed his mouth in embarrassment. Looking around, he added, “I’ve heard some rumors. Twelfth Brother, be vigilant. Make arrangements for Sister-in-law early, beware of desperate measures from certain people.”

He had already made such arrangements. Guards from the prince’s mansion were dispatched to the Wine and Vinegar Bureau alley. If anyone attempted foul play, they could certainly repel them.

But while hidden skirmishes could be anticipated, no one could stop an overt, official arrest.

On New Year’s Eve, when families everywhere were enjoying a reunion, brothers, and sisters had worshipped their ancestors and were now playing chess to pass the time until midnight. They were deeply engaged in the game when a series of urgent knocks came from the front courtyard.

Ding Yi hesitated. “Who would be moving about at this hour? Could it be the Twelfth Prince returning?” She put down her chess piece and went to the corridor to look, instructing the gatekeeper, “Find out who it is before opening the door.”

The gatekeeper acknowledged and, pulling the door bolt halfway, asked who was there. Before the words fell, the door was violently kicked off its hinges. An official, accompanied by dozens of soldiers holding torches, burst in. The deputy commander stood in the courtyard and shouted, “Commander of the Five Battalions of the Foot Patrol—responding to a report to arrest a fugitive deserter!” With a wave of his hand, he ordered, “Search!”

It was like disaster descending from the heavens. Ru Jian had no time to hide before being dragged out of the hall.

Ding Yi became frantic, frightened to the point of shock. She stepped forward to embrace her brother and turned to rebuke, “What kind of protocol is this? Coming to arrest someone with just verbal accusations?”

The deputy commander looked at her coldly. “The Foot Patrol makes arrests as needed. For those wrongfully accused, once cleared, they will naturally be released. For those with stains on their character, they might rot in prison—that’s how it is.” Seeing she wouldn’t let go, he raised his voice, “You’re obstructing official business. Considering you’re a woman, I won’t hold it against you. Let go—if you don’t, we’ll take you along as well!”

While they were struggling, Sha Tong arrived with a group of guards, waving his hand, “Block the door! Don’t let even an ant escape! I want to see who dares to make arrests at the Pure Prince Mansion!”

As the two sides confronted each other, the lead official finally spoke. Pressing his hand on his waist sword, he looked Sha Tong up and down. “Isn’t this the Twelfth Prince’s Deputy Steward? How is it you don’t recognize me anymore?”

Sha Tong certainly recognized him. This was Lou Bo Xiao, the Superintendent of the Nine Gates, holding the rank of first-class, responsible for the capital’s security, inspection, night patrol, prohibitions, household registration, and arrests. His appearance meant a battle that couldn’t be won. All Sha Tong could do was secretly send someone to Changchun Garden to inform the Twelfth Prince, while stalling as long as possible. But at present, the Twelfth Prince was fulfilling his filial duties before the Great Emperor. Getting a word in would be difficult. The Prince of Zhuang had chosen an excellent time to strike.

He took a breath, feigning surprise. “Isn’t this Superintendent Lou!” He quickly stepped forward with a bow. “You’re still busy during the New Year! This servant wishes you a happy New Year!”

Superintendent Lou glanced at him, not bothering with pleasantries, and said directly, “This official is handling a case. Irrelevant persons must not interfere, or they will be treated as accomplices. Deputy Steward, having followed the Twelfth Prince for so many years, don’t you understand even this rule?”

Sha Tong inwardly cursed his pedantry but maintained a smiling facade, repeatedly saying he wouldn’t dare. “This servant was ordered to protect the Consort’s household. Superintendent Lou, bursting in to make an arrest so late at night—this servant must at least inquire about the reason to report back to our master.”

Superintendent Lou glanced at the brother and sister. “Is this the Twelfth Prince’s Consort?”

Sha Tong quickly affirmed, “Yes, her name has been submitted to the palace, just awaiting the imperial decree… Look, isn’t this a case of crossing purposes? Your son and our master are on good terms, with exchanges between the two households. Once your son marries the princess, the relationship will deepen further. During this major festival, you’re taking our Consort’s elder brother away. This servant fears it will be difficult to explain. This servant has no intention of hindering your duties, just asking for accommodation. Tomorrow when our master returns from Changchun Garden, he will bring his brother-in-law to your office. Don’t you trust our master’s character? You can be assured.”

Superintendent Lou remained unmoved. “I am following orders. The person must be taken away today. The Superintendent’s office doesn’t hold prisoners; they will be handed over to the Ministry of Punishment for disposition. When the Twelfth Prince returns to the mansion, convey a message to me: This official is bound by duty. Where I have offended the Prince, I shall personally call to apologize another day.”

Seeing the negotiation was fruitless, the deputy commander waved to have the prisoner escorted away, but Ding Yi absolutely could not let go. She had experienced such pain before—when her father and brothers were taken away, they never returned. The nightmare from over a decade ago was repeating, which was more painful than death for her. She trembled with fear, having no other option but to face life or death with Ru Jian.

Ru Jian was also helpless, not expecting them to come at night, disrupting all his plans. Seeing Ding Yi like this made him very sad, but he had to appear composed, saying only, “It’s alright, I’ll go with them. Since it must be clarified sooner or later, there’s no better time than the present. It’s good that it has steeled my resolve.”

While other families were reunited, she had to endure another separation from her flesh and blood, truly unbearable for her. She looked around frantically. In the torchlight, each face was as cold as clay figures. She didn’t know whom to rely on. Sha Tong also seemed helpless, looking at her with a bitter expression. She gripped Ru Jian even tighter, saying fiercely, “I won’t separate from my Third Brother. If you want to arrest him, take me too.”

Superintendent Lou found this thorny. Although there had been no formal wedding yet, she was still the Pure Prince’s beloved. Offending her would not be good in the end. The prisoner had to be taken away no matter what, and further delay wasn’t an option. He turned to Sha Tong and said, “Deputy Steward, don’t just stand and watch. My soldiers are all rough men; we wouldn’t want to accidentally hurt the lady. Since she is the Twelfth Prince’s future Consort, it’s better to preserve her dignity and face.”

At this point, forcibly taking the person away was inevitable. Sha Tong could only offer comforting words: “Consort, don’t be anxious. Your health is important. We’ll make plans once the Twelfth Prince returns.”

She remained silent, clutching Ru Jian’s robe tightly, refusing to let go. As a result, the deputy commander drew his sword and cut off the corner of the robe. She stumbled, nearly falling, fortunately supported by Sha Tong. By the time she turned back to grab it again, Ru Jian had already been taken away by the soldiers.

Snow fell thickly and heavily from the sky. She ran out, watching helplessly as Ru Jian was escorted away. In the cross street, someone was setting off fireworks. With a boom, they soared into the sky, illuminating the heavens with multicolored lights. Then, as if infected, firecrackers and strings of explosives throughout the city created a thunderous noise in all directions, drowning her cries in the waves of sound.