The embassy caught fire at the Hai hour (9-11 PM). By the time the blaze was fully extinguished, it was already the early Yin hour (3-5 AM). Wei Zhao had left the scene at the Zi hour (11 PM-1 AM) to return to the palace and arrange defenses.
Pei Yan, seeing that the fire had been contained, judged from its intensity that there could be no survivors inside the embassy. He ordered Fan Yi to seal off the area, instructing him not to allow anyone to douse the embers with water or search for bodies prematurely, to avoid disturbing the scene. After giving these orders, he hurried to the palace.
By the time he arrived at Yanhui Hall, where the Emperor usually resided, the Crown Prince, Prince Zhuang, Prince Jing, and other high-ranking officials had already gathered due to the embassy fire.
The Emperor’s expression betrayed neither joy nor anger. Seeing Pei Yan enter, he said, “Now that everyone is here, let’s discuss how we should deploy troops and set up defenses.”
Pei Yan was taken aback, not expecting the discussion to have already reached the topic of troop deployment. Noticing Prince Jing giving him a meaningful glance, he realized the situation was unfavorable. He stepped forward and bowed, saying, “Your Majesty, it’s too early to discuss troop deployment.”
Tao Xingde wore a worried expression. “We must deploy troops early. Previously, when our court negotiated peace with the Huan Kingdom, we relaxed our border defenses and withdrew nearly 80,000 troops. Moreover, the martial arts disciples in the army have all taken leave for the selection. We lack commanders. If the Huan Kingdom uses this embassy incident as a pretext for war, our borders will be in jeopardy.”
The Emperor gave a light “hmm” and turned to Pei Yan, asking, “Where are the Changfeng Cavalry currently stationed?”
Pei Yan had no choice but to answer, “After Zhang You and others took leave, no great generals were leading the troops in Yunzhou, Yuzhou, and Gong’an. I exchanged the Changfeng Cavalry with the forces under their command, stationing them in these three areas, and withdrew the troops from these regions to Donglai and Hexi.”
He stepped forward, “Your Majesty, I believe it’s premature to discuss troop deployment and defense arrangements.”
Prince Zhuang interjected, “The time it takes for a military order to reach the northern front from the capital is about the same as it would take for news of the fire to reach the Huan Kingdom. If we don’t issue defense orders early and strictly guard against a Huan attack, we’ll be caught unprepared if war breaks out.”
The Crown Prince nodded, “Second Brother makes a valid point.”
With the Crown Prince’s agreement, Pei Yan found it difficult to immediately refute. As he pondered, the Emperor had already turned to the Crown Prince’s father-in-law, Grand Scholar Dong Fang, asking, “What’s your opinion, Scholar Dong?”
Dong Fang closed his eyes briefly before responding, “We should deploy troops, but not make large movements. Our defense line should be tight internally but loose externally, so as not to overly provoke the Huan Kingdom. I suggest not moving the Changfeng Cavalry, but slightly shifting Prince Wang Lang’s forces eastward. This way, we’ll have Duke Bo in the east, Wang Lang in the west, and the Changfeng Cavalry in the center. Even if war suddenly breaks out, we won’t be in disarray.”
Prince Zhuang, having just convinced the Emperor to agree to troop deployment and defense setup, was unwilling to let Dong Fang’s brother-in-law, Wang Lang, take control of the northwestern front. He secretly glanced at Tao Xingde.
Understanding the prince’s intent, Tao Xingde said, “Wang Lang’s forces are needed to keep the Yueluo Tribe in check. If we rashly withdraw them, and the Xingyue Sect causes trouble or the Yueluo Tribe demands independence, we’ll face endless problems. It would be more appropriate to deploy Gao Cheng’s forces from Jibei.”
Hearing this, the Emperor hesitated. Pei Yan seized the opportunity to step forward, “Your Majesty, I have something to say.”
The Emperor looked up at him with a slight smile, “Go ahead, Minister Pei.”
Pei Yan, rarely seeing the Emperor look at him so amiably, was momentarily stunned. He quickly regained his composure and said, “Scholar Dong is correct; we can deploy troops, but not make large movements. Minister Tao’s concerns are also valid; we shouldn’t move Wang Lang’s forces. I suggest pushing the original troops from Yunzhou and the other two areas toward the northwest. These three units have extensive experience fighting the Huan army. We only need to promote the deputy commanders to acting generals, temporarily taking over the duties of General Zhang and others.
This way, we won’t need to deploy troops from the rear, which could provoke a strong reaction from the Huan Kingdom. Moreover, increasing troops along the northwestern line will strengthen our deterrence against the Yueluo Tribe and the Xingyue Sect, preventing them from causing trouble. I suspect that this embassy fire was the work of the Xingyue Sect, intending to disrupt the peace treaty and create chaos between our two countries, allowing them to benefit from the situation.”
Prince Jing, understanding Pei Yan’s attempt to steer the conversation toward the fire investigation and away from military matters, quickly added, “Father, I share this suspicion. It’s too coincidental that the fire occurred on the eve of signing the peace treaty. It’s extremely suspicious.”
Prince Zhuang thought to himself: You brought up this topic, don’t blame me for pursuing it! He stepped forward and said, “Father, the embassy was heavily guarded, with over a thousand Imperial Guards surrounding it. No matter how brazen the Xingyue Sect might be, how could they possibly infiltrate the embassy and start a fire under such tight security? There must be more to this story.”
Pei Yan frowned briefly before smoothing his expression. He didn’t rush to speak. At this moment, Fan Yi, the Commander of the Imperial Guards, entered the hall and knelt before the throne, repeatedly begging for forgiveness.
The Emperor’s face darkened as he said, “Fan Yi, I’ve always considered you reliable. How could such a major oversight occur?!”
Hearing the Emperor’s ominous tone, Fan Yi quickly kowtowed, his forehead touching the ground. “Your Majesty, my Imperial Guards could only protect the embassy’s perimeter. We did not know about what was happening inside. The Huan envoys were particularly difficult this time, only allowing my men to deliver supplies to the door. They even expelled all the original attendants from the embassy. If this was arson, it could only have been done by someone within the Huan delegation.”
Right Prime Minister Tao Xingde smiled, “Commander Fan, do you intend to present this explanation to the Huan ruler and his ministers as well?”
Grand Scholar Dong stroked his long beard and said, “It seems we’ll have to inconvenience Commander Fan this time.”
Fan Yi continued to kowtow repeatedly. Pei Yan had long known that Fan Yi couldn’t be protected this time. Even if the Huan Kingdom didn’t resort to military action, they would demand punishment, and a scapegoat would be needed. If the conclusion was an accidental fire, Fan Yi, as the Commander of the Imperial Guards, would still bear responsibility for lax security and inadequate protection.
Having resigned himself to sacrificing Fan Yi, Pei Yan immediately considered potential candidates for the new Commander of the Imperial Guards. Although not a high-ranking position, it was crucial, controlling nearly ten thousand Imperial Guards and four city gates. In times of crisis in the capital, these ten thousand troops were a force no one could ignore. At this moment, the three factions in the hall were likely eyeing this position covetously, each hoping to seize it for themselves.
He had spent considerable effort in promoting Fan Yi to the position of Commander of the Imperial Guards, and now, less than half a year later, this incident occurred, which was indeed frustrating. However, given the current situation, he had no time to dwell on it, and he knew it wasn’t appropriate for him to recommend a replacement. So, he composed himself and carefully considered his next move.
Since entering the palace, Prince Zhuang had been thinking about this matter. Tao Xingde, understanding his intentions, stepped forward and said, “The position of Commander of the Imperial Guards should not remain vacant. I would like to recommend someone.”
The Emperor said, “Go ahead.”
Tao Xingde continued, “Xu Xi, the Right Vice Minister of the Ministry of War, is a military scholar who excels in both civil and martial arts. He has served as a deputy general under Gao Cheng and is known for his steadiness. He is capable of handling this responsibility.”
While the Emperor was still hesitating, Pei Yan turned to Shao Zihe, the Minister of War, and asked, “Minister Shao, isn’t Xu Xi a lay disciple of the Shaolin Temple?”
Shao Zihe replied, “Indeed, he is.”
Prince Jing inwardly laughed, knowing that Prince Zhuang’s faction had proposed a candidate that touched on one of the Emperor’s sensitivities. Since the founding of the Hua Dynasty, martial arts forces have been deeply entrenched in the military. The control of the military and even state affairs by martial arts practitioners had always been a hidden concern for emperors throughout the dynasties. However, since the Xie clan had seized power and established the country through martial prowess, there had never been a good excuse to purge the martial arts forces from the military and court.
Since Pei Yan became the leader of the martial arts alliance, he had been in sync with the Emperor on certain matters. Not only had he established the Changfeng Cavalry, which was free from any martial arts sect’s influence, but he had also transferred or dismissed military leaders from various sects. He had resigned from his position as the martial arts alliance leader and used the pretext of organizing a martial arts conference to conduct a major purge of the military, earning the Emperor’s approval.
At this juncture, for Prince Zhuang to still propose Xu Xi, a lay disciple of Shaolin, for the sensitive position of Commander of the Imperial Guards was indeed a major taboo for the Emperor.
Inwardly amused, Prince Jing maintained a calm expression and said, “Although Vice Minister Xu’s martial arts skills are outstanding and his military achievements are noteworthy, he has a history of enmity with Huan Kingdom generals from battlefield encounters. Given the current delicate situation, it might not be appropriate.”
Grand Scholar Dong nodded, “Prince Jing makes a valid point. The Huan Kingdom is already looking for excuses to cause trouble. Appointing someone who has killed their generals to this position might be unwise.”
With both Prince Jing and the Crown Prince’s faction opposing the nomination, Prince Zhuang couldn’t press further. Although others had their plans, they couldn’t gauge the Emperor’s thoughts, and the hall fell into silence.
The Crown Prince seemed a bit impatient and stifled a yawn. Catching the Emperor’s reproachful glance, he startled and hurriedly said, “If that’s the case, we should choose a military officer who has never been to the battlefield and is unknown to the Huan Kingdom.”
Just as Prince Jing was about to speak, Chen Zuwang, the Minister of Personnel, thought of someone and stepped forward, “The Crown Prince’s words have reminded this humble official. In this year’s personnel evaluation, there is one person suitable for this position.”
The Emperor asked, “Who?”
Chen Zuwang replied, “The second son of the late Marquis of Suhai, last year’s martial arts champion, Jiang Yuan. After the Marquis of Suhai passed away, the eldest son inherited the title, while this second son, Jiang Yuan, only excelled in martial arts, practicing his family’s spear techniques. He has a clean background, no past entanglements, and has served competently in the Ministry of War. This official believes he is suitable for this position.”
Chen Zuwang’s words were subtle, but everyone understood his meaning. The position of Commander of the Imperial Guards was too important and sensitive. With the three factions currently vying for it, appointing someone not affiliated with any faction could quell the court’s disputes.
The Emperor shared this thought and nodded, “The Marquis of Suhai was my close friend during my time as Crown Prince, and he served the country with utmost loyalty. A tiger father doesn’t beget a dog son. Jiang Yuan is also a martial arts champion and has gained experience in the Ministry of War. He is capable of this task. Let’s follow Minister Chen’s recommendation.”
Pei Yan knew this matter was settled and had his considerations. There were more pressing matters at hand, so he said, “Your Majesty, I believe the most urgent task now is to uncover the mastermind behind this fire and provide an explanation to the Huan Kingdom. This is the best way to defuse the situation and reopen peace negotiations.”
“Who should lead this investigation?” the Emperor asked.
Grand Scholar Dong said, “This official suggests that the Ministry of Justice take the lead, dispatching experienced judicial officers and coroners to examine the scene. The Censorate should also send officials to participate in and oversee the investigation.”
Qin Yang, the Minister of Justice, shuddered, knowing he was now in a precarious position. But he couldn’t back down, so he looked to Prince Zhuang for support. Prince Zhuang, unwilling to put his “favored general” in the line of fire, said, “It’s appropriate for the Ministry of Justice to investigate, but this matter involves the Huan Kingdom’s envoys, and their deputy envoy Lei Yuan escaped the fire. They will likely demand to be involved in the entire investigation process. We need to appoint someone who can handle the Huan envoys to lead the investigation.”
As soon as Prince Zhuang spoke, all eyes turned to Pei Yan. In the great hall, if anyone could handle the Huan Kingdom’s envoys, it would be him.
Everyone vividly remembered the battle against the Huan Kingdom two years ago, where Pei Yan had taken the enemy general’s head amidst thousands of troops. The Changfeng Cavalry had swept across three provinces, defeating the Huan Kingdom’s right army near Cheng County. If not for this victory, the Huan Kingdom might not have easily agreed to peace talks with the Hua Dynasty.
Pei Yan had his plans. The embassy fire and Jin You Lang’s death in the flames had caught him off guard, and he had a nagging feeling that the waters behind this incident ran deep. Now, the best strategy was to thoroughly investigate the case, provide an explanation to the Huan Kingdom, and then restart peace negotiations.
With this in mind, Pei Yan stepped forward: “I am willing to lead this investigation and will get to the bottom of the embassy fire case.”
The Emperor nodded approvingly: “Very well. Pei Yan will lead the investigation, and officials from other departments should assist without delay or evasion.”
All the officials bowed and acknowledged the order in unison. Prince Zhuang spoke again: “Then, about the troop deployment we discussed earlier—”
The Emperor stood up: “We’ll follow Minister Pei’s earlier suggestion. Leave the rest unchanged, but move the troops from the original three areas of Yunzhou towards the northwest. Promote the deputy generals to full generals, and be on high alert for a Huan Kingdom attack.”
As Prince Zhuang was about to speak again, the Emperor said: “I’m tired. You may all disperse now. Follow today’s discussions and attend to your respective duties.”
As they left Yanhui Hall, dawn was breaking, with the first light appearing and a chilly morning breeze blowing.
Pei Yan had something on his mind and hurriedly left through the Qianqing Gate. Prince Jing caught up with him and said as they walked: “Young Lord, you’ve taken on quite a hot potato.”
Pei Yan didn’t slow his pace: “It can’t be helped. We’ll have to deal with things as they come. I’ll look into Jiang Yuan’s background later.”
He cupped his hands in farewell: “Your Highness, I need to see someone. I’ll take my leave.” With that, he mounted his horse and rode back to the Prime Minister’s residence.
Pei Yang had been waiting at the entrance. Seeing Pei Yan return, he approached and said: “My Lord, the Madam asks that you go to her immediately.”
Pei Yan was startled but headed towards Butterfly Garden. As he walked, he instructed: “Quickly send someone to the West Garden to tell Ziming not to go to Master Fang’s place today. I have urgent matters to discuss with him and will go there shortly. Also, send someone to Master Fang’s to request three days’ leave for him.”
Pei Yan entered Butterfly Garden to find Madam Pei crouched in the garden, tending to bonsai trees with pruning shears in hand. He hurriedly approached and bowed: “Mother, you’re up so early? These tasks can be left to the servants.”
Madam Pei didn’t look up, focusing on trimming the bonsai. After a moment, she said: “Your uncle has sent a letter.”
Pei Yan was taken aback and lowered his head.
“That matter can’t be delayed any longer. You need to expedite it.”
Pei Yan replied softly: “Yes, I’ve already arranged for Ziming to enter Master Fang’s household. We can proceed with the matter after some time.”
Madam Pei cut off a forked branch from the bonsai and said: “As for Cui Liang, you’ve left him be for two years. It’s time to make use of him. Don’t be too soft-hearted.”
“Yes, I’ve found his weakness. Since he’s agreed to enter Master Fang’s household, he should follow my instructions.”
“Good.” Madam Pei turned to a pot of autumn begonias and shook her head: “Look, with just a moment’s inattention, it’s become infested. What do you think should be done?”
Pei Yan dared not respond. Madam Pei had already begun cutting away the overgrown branches, saying: “These leaves are too lush, attracting ants and insects. It’s better to cut them away for a cleaner look.”
She straightened up, and Pei Yan quickly stepped forward to take the shears. Madam Pei stared at him for a moment before saying calmly: “There are some things you shouldn’t ask me about, and I won’t tell you. Just follow your ideas. I’ve done all I can for you. Just remember one thing: His Majesty was able to stand out among the princes, ascend to the throne, and maintain his position for over twenty years for a reason. Keep that in mind.”
Pei Yan smiled: “I will remember Mother’s teachings.”
“You have much to do. Go on.” Madam Pei headed inside.
Pei Yan helped her up the steps and said: “I’ll take my leave.”
As he was about to step away, Madam Pei said: “Wait.”
Pei Yan turned back. Madam Pei looked down at him and calmly asked: “Has Shu Yun done something wrong? Are you planning to drive her out of Shen Garden?”
Pei Yan lowered his head and replied: “I wouldn’t dare.”
“When you were in the military a few years ago, I allowed you to delay marriage and taking concubines. Now that you’re in the capital, you’ve rejected all the young ladies from various noble families, and I haven’t said anything. You can delay taking a primary wife, but I’ve chosen Shu Yun to be your concubine. Even if she’s made mistakes, you should be more tolerant for my sake.”
Pei Yan was silent for a moment before saying: “I understand.”
As dawn broke, Jiang Ci awoke, remembering that Brother Cui had to report for duty at the palace. She got up early to prepare breakfast for him.
Soon, she heard Cui Liang getting up to wash. Then she heard a servant from the Prime Minister’s residence saying that the Prime Minister had urgent business and asked Young Master Cui not to go to the palace for duty, but to wait for him in the West Garden.
Jiang Ci finished cooking the millet porridge, but the neck sprain from the previous night was getting more painful. She put down the bowl and ran to her room to look in the mirror, only to find her neck was very swollen.
Grumbling, she left the room and saw Cui Liang turning from the courtyard. Noticing her constantly rubbing her neck, he looked closely and asked: “Xiao Ci, did you sprain your neck?”
Jiang Ci tilted her head and said: “Yes, I sprained it last night. I thought it wasn’t a big deal, but when I woke up this morning, it was like this.”
Cui Liang beckoned her: “Come here, let me take a look.”
Knowing his medical skills were excellent, Jiang Ci quickly went over and sat on a bamboo stool. Cui Liang looked down and shook his head: “You’ve strained a tendon. How did you manage to sprain it so badly?”
Jiang Ci laughed: “I was startled by a wild cat and twisted it.”
Cui Liang chuckled: “I thought you were quite brave. How did a cat scare you so much?”
Jiang Ci tilted her head and said: “You don’t know, that cat was really scary. It looked quite pretty, but its claws were very sharp and could easily scratch someone.”
Cui Liang went into the room and came out with a porcelain bottle. He hesitated behind Jiang Ci for a moment before saying: “Xiao Ci, let me apply some herbal medicine for you.”
Jiang Ci smiled: “Alright.”
“Xiao Ci, I need to massage it first, then adjust your neck.”
“Okay, Brother Cui, please hurry and massage it. It’s really painful.”
Seeing her completely unaware, and knowing her innocent nature didn’t consider the propriety between men and women, Cui Liang sighed inwardly. He poured the herbal medicine into his palm and placed his hand on the back of Jiang Ci’s neck, gently massaging it.
Jiang Ci felt a cool sensation from Cui Liang’s palm, and his massage technique was very skilled. After a moment, the pain lessened, and the massaged area felt comfortably numb and tingly.
Pleased, she smiled and said: “Brother Cui, your medical skills are really good. Why don’t you open your clinic and help people?”
Cui Liang was about to speak when she suddenly cried out “Ah!” He quickly stopped and leaned forward, asking: “What’s wrong? Was I too rough?”
Jiang Ci looked up and smiled: “No, it’s fine. I just thought of something else.”
At this moment, Cui Liang was leaning down, and Jiang Ci was looking up. Their faces were very close, close enough to see each other’s clear reflections in their pupils.
Cui Liang’s hand was still on Jiang Ci’s neck, feeling the smooth, delicate skin. The eyes before him were dark and bright, her smile pure and radiant. His emotions gradually became complex and indescribable.
Jiang Ci, however, didn’t notice anything and still looked up smiling: “Keep massaging, Brother Cui.”
Cui Liang came back to his senses and was about to speak when Pei Yan walked into the garden with a smile.