In the days that followed, I lived a life so comfortable it bordered on boring. Day in and day out, I did nothing but eat, drink, sleep, and accompany Jiayi in games of chess. Even Eunuch Cheng, who occasionally came to gauge the situation, remarked: “The Princess appears to have grown quite round.”

Given his frankness, I once again politely declined his request for me to appease the Crown Prince.

Ever since my falling out with Jingyan, he had not set foot in my Changle Palace even once, and naturally I had never visited the Eastern Palace. We remained at this impasse for some time, until even my usually taciturn Mother Empress came to my door to persuade me about “siblings united in heart can cut through metal” and such platitudes.

Mother Empress had always favored my younger brother, but most of the time she would not interfere in matters between us siblings. Her personal intervention was truly due to two recent events.

The first was the Heaven Worship Ceremony.

Speaking of which, the winter sacrifice had been an extremely important matter throughout all dynasties. From the numerous tedious preparations before the ritual to the arrangement of sacrificial positions and ceremonies, not the slightest negligence could be tolerated. Once, Father Emperor had directly dismissed and exiled the Minister of Works to the frontier simply because one fewer sky lantern was hung than required. Not to mention the words and conduct of the accompanying officials on that day – the slightest misstep would require them to prepare their heads. Thus, the entire court lived in constant trepidation, as if facing a great enemy.

In previous years, it was naturally the reigning emperor who performed the heaven worship. Ever since Father Emperor collapsed two years ago and never awakened, this heaven worship ceremony had been suspended for two years.

It was indeed strange – these past two years had seen continuous natural disasters. Just as drought was somewhat alleviated here, floods would arise there, causing unrest among the people and instability in the court. After several intense discussions in court, everyone unanimously decided to resume the heaven worship.

Now, with Father Emperor still unconscious, no one dared to carry him to perform the heaven worship, so this heavy responsibility naturally fell upon the Crown Prince.

Thus, this heaven worship held extraordinary significance for the Crown Prince.

Since ancient times, the reason rulers treated every sacrifice with such gravity was not merely to pray for heavenly blessing, but more importantly to demonstrate imperial majesty to all people. The so-called “divine right of kings” meant that if even Heaven recognized your position as ruler, who under heaven could still question it?

In truth, Father Emperor’s illness had dragged on for so long without improvement, only worsening daily. The court had already proposed letting the Crown Prince ascend the throne. However, the Crown Prince had not been prepared before, so there had been no movement. Later, with Prince Kang’s schemes before and Marquis Xia Yang’s military threat after, the Inner Cabinet led by Zhao Gengnian once again proposed the view that “the state cannot be without a ruler for a single day,” which all civil and military officials supported.

This time, the Crown Prince did not refuse, merely saying that since the matter was of great importance, it would be discussed again after the heaven worship.

In short, this heaven worship was of critical importance. If any disturbance or disaster occurred, the Crown Prince might very well be interpreted as “not mandated by Heaven,” making his path to the throne even more difficult and treacherous.

When Mother Empress came to find me, frankly speaking, she too felt that Jingyan was not entirely reliable in handling affairs. If I could step forward to assist, it would naturally be more secure, and of course it would be even better if I could accompany the Crown Prince throughout the entire process.

I looked at Mother Empress with great frustration and said: “Mother Empress, I am Jingyan’s sister, not his wet nurse. If he wants to sit on that position, he must be able to stand on his own. If he always needs someone watching over him as if he were never weaned, how will the civil and military officials view him?”

Mother Empress said: “Do you still remember your Father Emperor’s instructions to you?”

“You’ve repeated that sentence structure seven times already…” I cleared my throat: “Moreover, don’t say that what Father Emperor entrusted to me has all been handed over to the Crown Prince. Now the powerful ministers in court no longer take me seriously. Even if you ask me to help, you must say where I should start helping?”

Mother Empress said: “Setting aside the heaven worship matter for now, are you also powerless regarding Yan’er’s marriage?”

This referred to the second matter – the Crown Prince wished to establish the Chief Minister’s daughter as his consort. Although Zhao Gengnian also had this intention, Zhao Yanran seemed to resist unto death. It was heard that she had been locked in the mansion by Chief Minister Zhao and had been on hunger strike for three days.

I let out a long sigh, “How could I possibly have power over such matters of unrequited love? If I had such ability, I might as well open a shop within ten li of the capital. Anyone with one-sided affection who couldn’t marry their beloved could come to my door, and it would surely bring rolling wealth, even solving the treasury’s urgent needs…”

Mother Empress’s gaze swept over sharply: “The Crown Prince has told this palace everything. You abandon state affairs for personal feelings – have you cast your Father Emperor’s instructions to the back of your mind?”

“Even if you change the sentence structure, I am still powerless. The key to this problem doesn’t lie with me at all…”

Mother Empress slammed the table, smashing the teacup in her hand to pieces, “Good! Truly this palace’s good princess!”

Mother Empress rarely showed anger. Seeing her like this now, I couldn’t help but feel alarmed. She said: “Do you think this palace doesn’t understand your nature? Regardless of whether you have means to assist Jingyan, these past days you haven’t stepped foot in the Eastern Palace – isn’t that because you’re unwilling to interfere in this matter? You and your imperial brother are the same, looking down on so-called political marriages, always pursuing those genuine emotions. Hmph, in this palace’s view, those are merely excuses you make to satisfy your private desires!”

“Mother Empress…”

“One abandons his responsibilities for romantic feelings and walks away; another turns against her own brother for romantic feelings,” Mother Empress trembled as she spoke: “Do you think Jingyan is willing to shoulder this burden, willing to marry a woman who doesn’t love him?! You resent your brother for not considering your feelings, but when have you ever considered his?” After saying this, she didn’t wait for me to finish expressing my views before sweeping away in anger, leaving the little palace maids silent as cicadas, frantically gathering the broken pieces.

I didn’t tell Mother Empress that actually I had never intended to stay out of it. These past days I had already done many things in secret, just waiting for the right opportunity.

The tea-serving little palace maid looked carefully at my expression, tiptoeing to brew a fresh pot of tea. I said: “This Princess has cravings. For dinner I want flower-cut soft beef intestines, grilled shrimp, tenderloin, West Lake fish soup, and milk-stewed chicken. Stir-fry a plate of bamboo shoots, and bring a steamer of golden milk pastries.”

The little palace maid looked somewhat dumbfounded: “Your, Your Highness will dine alone?”

“What’s inappropriate about that?”

The little palace maid shook her head repeatedly, “This servant will immediately instruct the imperial kitchen.”

It’s just ordering a few extra dishes – why make such a big fuss?

If everyone could transform their grief and anger into appetite when things didn’t go their way, who knows how many disputes could be avoided.

I reached into my robe and unfolded the note in my palm. This was a message from Song Langsheng via flying eagle last night at the third watch: “At the Heaven Worship Ceremony, the Nie faction will surely make their move.”

I gazed toward the window following the gentle breeze. The clouds on the horizon were soft and gentle, but the calm before the storm inexplicably made one shudder. I pondered that I should go remind the Crown Prince to increase troops and defenses both inside and outside the palace. Although Song Langsheng told me to rest assured, being at ease definitely didn’t mean one could let down their guard.

Since I had specifically prepared the Crown Prince’s favorite foods, inviting him to dine at Changle Palace would be appropriate. I casually gathered my outer robe and was about to go out when I heard a palace maid’s voice: “Your Highness Princess, Princess Jiayi has arrived.”

Before I could speak, Jiayi pushed open the door, waving a kite in her hand with a beaming smile: “Imperial Sister!”

I rubbed my forehead, only then remembering that I had casually promised Jiayi yesterday to accompany her to fly kites in the courtyard. I said: “Imperial Sister has important matters to discuss with the Crown Prince. Why don’t we postpone the kite flying to another day?”

Jiayi showed disappointment but didn’t dare throw a tantrum, only nodding obediently. Seeing this, I felt some pity and quickly called her back, telling her to wait for me outside for a moment.

I rummaged through the cabinet, turning things upside down. From childhood to now, I had collected countless rare treasures, most of which had been stored away at the bottom without being touched again. Taking them out now for my imperial sister to play with would be fine.

Sure enough, several large wooden boxes at the bottom of the cabinet contained many interesting items. I picked up an armful and was about to take them to Jiayi when I inadvertently glimpsed a sword.

This sword’s scabbard was cast of bronze, carved with soaring dragons and auspicious clouds, extremely magnificent and imposing. Unsheathed, it could cut hair by blowing on it and slice through iron like mud. When wielded, it was like a pool of autumn water with inexhaustible strength.

This sword was the one Father Emperor used when conquering the realm. Later he gave this sword to Imperial Elder Brother, and at that time all the other brothers envied it without exception. When Imperial Brother left the imperial city with his beauty, on the day of parting he gave me the sword, saying he had no face to personally return it to Father Emperor.

When I brought the sword before Father Emperor, he said: “Since he gave the sword to you, keep it well.”

I then put the sword away, thinking that one day when Imperial Elder Brother returned I would give this sword back to him. But after that farewell, he never had news again, disappearing like the wind…

Thinking of this, my heart sank heavily.

“Lan” means mountain wind, departing with the wind, hence “Fengli.”

I closed my eyes, telling myself not to indulge in wild speculation, that I should focus on helping Jingyan overcome his difficulties.

At noon, Jingyan indeed had not rested and was still bent over his desk writing furiously, reviewing memorials piled like mountains.

I didn’t have Eunuch Cheng announce me, so when he looked up and saw that the visitor was me, he was obviously startled, “Imperial Sister…”

I knelt beside him and casually picked up a memorial, looking at it and saying: “It seems the pure-minded officials in court don’t greatly approve of your forceful seizure approach…”

Jingyan lowered his head, “Has Imperial Sister come to mock me?”

“How could I not understand the Crown Prince’s intentions? Now Daqing faces both internal troubles and external threats. Chief Minister Zhao possesses such tremendous power yet remains aloof, his heart unfathomable. If he were to turn against us, the Crown Prince’s future path would be extremely difficult… Honestly speaking, apart from political marriage, I can’t think of a better way to win over Zhao Gengnian either…” I put down the memorial and sighed, “It’s just that you don’t understand Zhao Yanran at all. I’ve had some contact with her. Although she’s the Chief Minister’s daughter, she’s quite different from other noble young ladies, having no attachment whatsoever to the power and glory behind the high walls of the rear palace. If she’s unwilling to marry, you wanting to wed her doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll succeed. To truly win over a woman who’s persistent about emotions, this move shouldn’t be played this way.”

Jingyan turned toward me in surprise, “You, you mean…”

“I will personally visit the Chief Minister’s mansion,” I said: “Man proposes, Heaven disposes.”

Seeing me rise and adjust my robes, Jingyan hurriedly stood up, “Since Imperial Sister is on good terms with Miss Zhao, Jingyan really doesn’t wish to force you into a difficult position. This matter should still…”

“Protecting Daqing is not only your responsibility, but also Imperial Sister’s.” I smiled slightly and said: “Mother Empress was right. You’ve always done very well – it’s I who have been too willful.”

Jingyan shook his head, “If it weren’t for me, Imperial Sister would be living more freely than now…”

I didn’t follow his words, patting his shoulder instead, “When I return later, come directly to Changle Palace to dine with me. Imperial Sister has already had the imperial kitchen prepare your favorites.”

Jingyan looked at me steadily and nodded, “Mm.”

When I turned to leave, I let out a soft breath.

Perhaps the days when Imperial Sister can stay by your side, the opportunities to dine with you, were never meant to be many to begin with—

Second Update

At dusk, the autumn waters of a lake in the Zhao mansion rippled with light under the setting sun.

I followed behind the Zhao mansion servants, walking leisurely by the waterside pavilion. Looking back, I saw Zhao Gengnian hurrying through the long corridor. When he came near and finished his prostrations, he gestured for me to enter the hall and take a seat, saying respectfully: “This old minister didn’t know of the Princess’s arrival and failed to welcome you properly. I hope the Princess won’t take offense.”

I slowly looked at him – his complexion appeared more haggard than when I last saw him. “The Minister is busy with official duties. It is Xiangyi who has been presumptuous in disturbing the Minister.”

Zhao Gengnian instructed servants to serve tea. After pastries were arranged, he said: “I wonder what brings Your Highness here today?”

I said: “This palace has come today specifically to visit younger sister Yanran.”

Zhao Gengnian’s expression remained unchanged, but his eyes showed slight surprise, “Oh? I didn’t expect the Princess to be acquainted with my daughter?”

I smiled and said: “I’ve met your daughter several times and we get along quite well. Recently I heard that younger sister Yanran has lost her appetite due to the Crown Prince’s selection of a consort, and I’m quite worried, so I came uninvited. If the Minister has any difficulties, please speak frankly. If there’s anything I can help with, this palace will certainly assist.”

Zhao Gengnian showed a grateful expression: “I’m deeply grateful for the Princess’s kindness. It’s only that this old minister has been too indulgent with my daughter in daily life, actually spoiling her to the point where she doesn’t know the height of heaven and earth, even daring to defy His Highness the Crown Prince’s marriage. Sigh, this old minister truly has no face to meet the Crown Prince…”

“This is Yanran’s natural disposition. The Minister need not blame yourself.” I said: “Since this is the case, could the Minister take this palace to see her?”

Zhao Gengnian nodded slightly and stood to lead the way, “Princess, this way please.”

I guessed that Zhao Yanran must have been on hunger strike for several days.

When I entered the room, the sound of opening and closing the door was so loud, yet she remained completely unmoved, sitting motionlessly by the window gazing at the rosy clouds on the horizon. It seemed the blow she had received was truly severe.

I pulled a chair to sit beside her and stared at her for quite a while. She finally noticed my presence and slowly turned around, startled: “Princess?!”

Looking at her dark-circled eyes, I sighed: “Long time no see. You’ve grown much thinner.”

She inquired with her eyes, “How did you come to my home?” After a moment’s thought she immediately understood, “Ah yes, the Crown Prince wants to take me as consort – how could you not know? Princess, have you come to help me?”

My heart felt bitter. Zhao Yanran had already placed both hands on my shoulders, her eyes flashing with light like ashes returning to flame: “You know, you know who I truly love in my heart. I cannot marry the Crown Prince, cannot marry into the imperial palace. Princess, will you help me? You’re the Crown Prince’s sister – perhaps he’ll listen to what you say…”

“Yanran, I…” My lips moved, about to speak but saying nothing. Zhao Yanran was so intelligent – she seemed to read the helplessness in my eyes. She slowly let go of my hands, “You didn’t come to help me… Why? Is it because I took your Xu Fang?”

I shook my head. Her gaze gradually turned angry, “Then why?”

“For the Crown Prince.” I was silent for a moment, “The Crown Prince needs your father’s assistance, but your father also has his concerns. If he makes you consort and the Crown Prince makes you empress when he ascends the throne… for your father, only this way can ensure your Zhao family stands firm and unshakeable. For the Crown Prince, only this way can he gain your father’s full support…”

Zhao Yanran raised her hand to interrupt me, “What does this have to do with me?! When you decided this privately, did you ask my wishes?! Just to consolidate power, you can sacrifice my feelings, sacrifice my life? Princess, you won’t help me, fine, but now you’re even joining them against me. Search your conscience – how has this Zhao Yanran treated you, and how have you treated me?!”

I lowered my head, involuntarily choking up: “You’ve treated me extremely well. When I was in trouble, you tried hard to save my life. After Xu Fang disappeared, you even told Nie Ran the truth…”

Zhao Yanran was stunned: “Did, did Ran Gege tell you these things?”

I nodded.

“Since that’s the case, how can you…”

“Yanran,” I said in a low voice: “Even if you’re unwilling to marry the Crown Prince, you still cannot be with Nie Ran.”

“Why?”

“You may still be kept in the dark, so let me tell you – Marquis Xia Yang Nie Guang intends to rebel, and Nie Ran is also involved,” I said: “The Crown Prince has already ordered people to secretly monitor him, just waiting for evidence to emerge before immediate arrest.”

Zhao Yanran suddenly stood up, her face full of disbelief: “You’re talking nonsense! How could Ran Gege have rebellious intentions…”

“He told me personally.” I closed my eyes, then opened them again, “You’ve known him for so long – I don’t believe you truly can’t see any signs. If you still don’t believe, go ask your father. If you still don’t believe that, personally go to the Imperial Academy to find Nie Ran and see what he says.”

She tremblingly supported herself against the window frame with her fingertips, as if lost in memories. After a long while, she asked: “If this is truly the case, why are you telling me all this? Aren’t you afraid I’ll go tell Ran Gege and let him escape in time?”

I said: “You’re welcome to try, but best ensure he can escape safely. Otherwise, fleeing in fear of punishment and being captured would be pushing him into mortal danger early, confirming his guilt.”

Zhao Yanran’s whole body shook, her face pale as snow. I gritted my teeth and said: “However, regardless of whether this succeeds or fails, you would be viewed as an accomplice, and the Zhao family would face complete destruction. You might be able to sacrifice your own life to save Nie Ran, but can you truly abandon your relatives and your family?”

She looked as if she might collapse at any moment. The strength she had been maintaining since I entered completely dissipated without a trace. “You’re telling me these things to make me give up on Ran Gege and then marry the Crown Prince…”

“You value loyalty and righteousness, naturally unwilling to let your family suffer because of you. If Nie Ran dies because of this, your heart would surely be filled with guilt and hatred – how could you possibly marry the Crown Prince?” I turned my head away, “You would follow Nie Ran in death. Only thus would you not betray your deep feelings in this life.”

Zhao Yanran’s beautiful eyes showed despair, “The Princess truly understands Yanran best…”

I secretly clenched my fists in my sleeves, warning myself not to reveal any flaws, “Yanran, do you want to save Nie Ran?”

Hearing this, Zhao Yanran suddenly raised her eyes. I said: “I can ensure he leaves the imperial city safely.”

“…But he’s going to rebel – how could the Crown Prince possibly allow him to leave…”

“Don’t say the Crown Prince won’t allow it – I’m afraid all the civil and military officials wouldn’t agree to letting the tiger return to the mountain…” I took a deep breath, “But if you wish it, I can make it happen. However, you must marry the Crown Prince – this is the only condition.”

Zhao Yanran bit her lips tightly, drawing bright red blood. After an unknown amount of time, her voice came like a thread: “I’ll marry.”

“As long as you can save Ran Gege, I’ll marry.”

Though this was the expected answer, hearing her say it still made my heart ache bitterly. I slowly stood up, “Since you’ve thought it through, eat well and rest well. You probably don’t want me to stay here…”

“Princess…” Zhao Yanran called out to stop me, “May I… ask you a question?”

I didn’t dare turn back to look at her, “Mm.”

“Do you still remember how you answered me years ago in the forest when I asked you, ‘Why did you block that arrow for Ran Gege’?”

Those words from that day seemed to echo hazily in my ears.

“You said, ‘He will remember me someday. Just thinking about it makes me feel very happy.'” She spoke slowly: “I felt so sad hearing that, but… also so envious… I not only envied his love for you, but even more envied your unreserved heart toward him.”

I lowered my eyelids.

She said: “Tell me, if the He Feng of that time knew that a year later, to achieve her goals, she could even threaten the life of the person she swore to protect unto death – could she still say those words without shame?”

“Miss Zhao, the person standing before you now is no longer He Feng. I cannot answer this question.” I took a deep breath and said: “I take my leave.”

Third Update

I slowly turned and left the room. After walking a few steps, I saw Zhao Gengnian standing by the window corner. His expression was quite complex and unfathomable at this moment, yet he remained silent, probably fearing that Zhao Yanran would discover he had been outside the room all along. I gestured for him to go first, then quickly followed.

Passing through the courtyard and returning to the main reception hall, Zhao Gengnian waved to dismiss the servants in the hall, leaving only the two of us alone.

I took a seat and casually picked up a honey cake. Seeing Zhao Gengnian standing with his hands behind his back in silence, I asked: “Does the Minister have something to say to this palace?”

Zhao Gengnian narrowed his eyes slightly, “This old minister believes it should be the Princess who speaks first.”

I said: “I have already persuaded your daughter. The wedding preparations can begin soon. This matter is quite satisfactory – I can return to the palace and report back. What else is there to say?”

Zhao Gengnian looked at me deeply, “Forgive this old minister’s confusion. Since the Princess’s actions were intended to help His Highness the Crown Prince strategize and win allies, then simply persuading my daughter privately would suffice. Why deliberately let this old man eavesdrop in secret?”

“The Minister misunderstands. This palace did not come today to win over the Minister…” I looked back at him, “I just had some confusion that needed resolution.”

Zhao Gengnian said: “The Princess’s words make this old minister even more confused.”

I brushed the cake crumbs from my sleeves, “Since the Minister hopes this palace will speak more clearly, I’ll be direct.”

I considered my words carefully, then said: “All along, does the Minister know what kind of person you are in my heart? Thinking back to those years, you and my teacher Fang Liang were both highly valued by Father Emperor, enjoying unlimited glory. From the capital to the provinces, countless officials wanted to curry favor with you both. You, Minister, engaged in everything from befriending the powerful to forming factions for personal gain. Now you have followers throughout the realm and hold the highest position. Yet teacher Fang Liang, who devoted himself wholeheartedly to the people, met such an end…” I twisted my lips, “I once lamented the injustice of worldly affairs, once resented Father Emperor’s unfairness, and even thought that someday I must bring down all the Zhao faction to show all officials and people the bright sun and moon, the cycle of heavenly justice. I imagine the Crown Prince’s thoughts align perfectly with mine.”

He said nothing, only continued listening as I spoke: “When this palace first supervised the state, all matters great and small in court could not be properly handled without the Minister’s approval. The Crown Prince and I exerted every effort to investigate openly and secretly, win people’s hearts, and cultivate capable ministers to counter you. In the end we achieved some success – though we couldn’t bring you down, we could at least contend with you somewhat.”

“Later, when this palace was harmed by Nie Guang and wandered among the common people, the Crown Prince feared that he alone could not match your power, so he hastily found a substitute to deceive you…” Thinking of this, I smiled, “Minister Zhao, tell me – isn’t it amusing? The Crown Prince still thinks you know nothing about it.”

I slowly stood up and said: “After this palace returned to the palace, I was quite unfamiliar with many things. When Minister Zhao proposed Nie Ran for disaster relief, the Crown Prince feared treachery and strongly promoted Han Fei to go instead. Recently I learned that the floods in Jiangzhe were actually caused single-handedly by Marquis Xia Yang, with the precise purpose of creating more disasters and chaos. Thinking back now, if we had really sent Nie Ran then, if the relief efforts failed the court would surely punish him, but if they succeeded, wouldn’t it be the tiresome work of the father digging holes for the son to fill? I was truly puzzled, so I went to check the records from that time. Only then did I discover that all the connections Marquis Xia Yang had made and the memorials he submitted were to get Nie Ran to come to the capital – not a single word mentioned disaster relief. I suddenly understood – Minister Zhao, when you nominated Nie Ran that day, on the surface you were seeking an opportunity for Marquis Xia Yang, but the person you were truly helping was His Highness the Crown Prince, wasn’t it?”

At this question, Zhao Gengnian’s brow finally showed a trace of turbulence. I said: “Throughout my time assisting the Crown Prince in governing the state, I often found it puzzling – why was it that despite constant setbacks, we could still achieve success? Take the appointment for disaster relief – even if Minister Zhao showed some obstruction, didn’t you ultimately agree to let Han Fei go? And in Prince Kang’s treason case, without Chief Minister Zhao’s statement that ‘harming the Princess is like harming the Emperor,’ how could we have forced Jiang Feng to identify Prince Kang and made all civil and military officials submit?”

Zhao Gengnian said quietly: “These are merely the Princess’s speculations…”

I smiled faintly: “A year ago in Suiyang, your daughter, Nie Ran and I were attacked in a forest. Logically, to defeat the enemy through surprise, one should choose the weakest to hold hostage, yet so many assassins only targeted Nie Ran, with almost no one laying hands on us two women…”

Even the arrow I took was because I foolishly threw myself in front of it as a human shield.

I had also discussed this matter with Song Langsheng. Regarding who exactly sent assassins to kill Nie Ran, we were completely at a loss, since the most likely person was Father Emperor, but how could an unconscious Father Emperor secretly dispatch assassins?

Later Song Langsheng suddenly asked me: You and Young Master Nie were in Chen Family Village for so long without any assassins appearing. Why did assassins appear when you arranged to meet Zhao Yanran in the forest?

“I was puzzled, so I sent people to investigate where the assassins came from and who exactly hired them,” I looked at Zhao Gengnian, “Chief Minister Zhao, must you still hide this from this palace?”

Zhao Gengnian’s clouded eyes gradually became more revealing, “The assassination of Nie Ran was indeed ordered by this old minister. I truly didn’t know Your Highness was also in Suiyang that day. I thought this matter was handled without leaving any traces – even Nie Guang couldn’t find any clues. It seems I truly underestimated Your Highness.”

I smiled nervously – those assassins that day had no distinguishing features except their black clothes. After a year, who could still trace any leads?

I said: “Years ago when the Crown Prince was first established, he was merely a naive youth with no prestige in court. Now all civil and military officials willingly petition for the Crown Prince to ascend the throne. Without your behind-the-scenes assistance, Minister, this palace could never believe it. You took such pains to help the Crown Prince learn to govern through adversity, learn to balance various forces…”

Speaking to this point, I gathered my sleeves and respectfully bowed to Zhao Gengnian, “Xiangyi is deeply grateful.”

Zhao Gengnian quickly returned the bow, “How dare I… All this was originally His Majesty’s intention. This old minister merely fulfilled his duty of loyalty to his ruler. I hope the Princess won’t blame this old minister for the sin of deception…”

I was slightly stunned, then immediately understood, “Since Father Emperor values you highly, he must have good reason. So the initial marriage alliance between the Nie and Zhao families was also merely your means of gaining Nie Guang’s trust?”

“Exactly.”

It seemed that when the Nie family established their independent territory, Father Emperor had already kept an eye on them. The friendship between the Zhao and Nie families was calculated from the very beginning.

It was just a pity that Zhao Yanran was always kept in the dark, giving her true feelings to Nie Ran.

I sighed, “The Minister really shouldn’t have used Yanran to achieve your goals – not in the past, and certainly not now.”

Zhao Gengnian stroked his beard and asked: “What does the Princess mean by this…”

I raised my eyes slightly, “When the Minister asked why this palace deliberately let you hear our conversation, there were actually two purposes. The first was simply to prove to you that Yanran has emotional attachments, so persuading her isn’t difficult – even this palace could do it. Why could you only let her waste away on hunger strike? Was your performance meant for the Crown Prince to see, or for Nie Guang?”

Zhao Gengnian’s whole body shook. Under my steady gaze, he even began to stutter, “This old minister… this old minister absolutely had no such intention…”

I looked at him quietly.

After all, he had his own selfish motives. His invisible assistance to the Crown Prince was also a way of leaving himself an escape route.

He was indeed loyal to Father Emperor, but he wasn’t necessarily wholehearted toward the court.

When the Crown Prince proposed the marriage alliance, he spread news of Zhao Yanran’s refusal – even now he still wanted to maintain surface neutrality because he was unwilling to openly become enemies with Nie Guang.

“You know well that a conflict between the Crown Prince and Nie Guang is imminent, yet you’re unwilling to be involved. You don’t want Nie Guang to realize you’ve already switched sides, nor do you want to offend the Crown Prince. So you use Yanran as an excuse to delay this marriage, wanting to wait until the Crown Prince ascends the throne and everything is settled before making your decision, right?” I stared at him, “Unfortunately, from this moment on, you can no longer stay out of it.”

Zhao Gengnian wearily closed his eyes, “So the Princess persuading my daughter to marry was actually to make everyone see that I, Zhao Gengnian, am on the Crown Prince’s side… If this old minister now proposes to refuse the marriage, the Princess would likely reveal the matter of assassinating Young Master Nie to Nie Guang. Thus this old minister can neither advance nor retreat…”

I said lightly: “Serve your ruler loyally in return for his favor – didn’t you just say this yourself, Minister?”

Zhao Gengnian opened his eyes, which showed the deep, still waters of an ancient well, “What is the Princess’s second purpose?”

I walked forward a few steps, then stopped, slowly saying: “The second purpose… is rather simple. I just wanted you to see your daughter Yanran – even though she loves deeply and would disregard her own life for Nie Ran, she can even more readily abandon her beliefs and her life for you, for your family’s safety. Actually… this palace privately planned to find a way to have the Crown Prince cancel the marriage after this crisis passes. After all, the Crown Prince’s purpose in marrying Yanran is to gain your strength and assistance. If you can give your full effort to help the Crown Prince win this battle, then whether there’s a marriage alliance or not wouldn’t matter so much to the Crown Prince…” I paused, “But I’m afraid the one who will insist on the marriage then will be you, Minister…”

Zhao Gengnian remained silent for a long time.

This chief of the Inner Cabinet whom Father Emperor valued most had too many entangled threads at his current position.

With each new emperor comes new ministers – the greater the power, the greater the worries.

Even if he gave everything to help the Crown Prince, he might not be able to maintain his current power.

Marriage alliance was the most direct and secure method.

Zhao Gengnian’s figure appeared quite desolate under the play of light and shadow. He covered his forehead with his hand and said hoarsely: “What parent under heaven doesn’t cherish their own children…”

After saying this, he could say no more.

Even when I left the Zhao mansion, I wasn’t certain whether Zhao Gengnian had taken my words to heart.

Forcing him to openly stand on the Crown Prince’s side was already asking too much – expecting him to also abandon the marriage alliance seemed rather unlikely.

Sigh, I could only hope that Yanran’s tears might stir his paternal love. Otherwise, when the time came, I’d have to think of other ways to help Zhao Yanran escape the marriage.

I rubbed my temples with a headache.

I wondered if there was any possibility of getting Yanran to transfer her affections to the Crown Prince.

After comparing Nie Ran’s face with Jingyan’s face in my mind, I quickly dismissed this thought.

The sky had darkened. In a moment of distraction, the carriage passed through the palace gates, palace lanterns flashing by on both sides, pure moonlight spilling over red walls and high tiles.

In a few days would be the Heaven Worship Ceremony. For many people, success or failure would be determined in this single stroke.

Song Langsheng said he was confident of victory. I believed him.

I thought that after eliminating Feng Li and resolving the current crisis, it would be time to leave the imperial city with Song Langsheng and completely let go.

Completely bringing Chief Minister Zhao into our camp should be the last thing I could do for the Crown Prince.

With Zhao Gengnian there, even if Nie Guang raised troops in rebellion, the Crown Prince would have sufficient ability to respond.

Snow filled the courtyards of Changle Palace. I stepped on it, making crunching sounds that alerted those inside, who hurried out to greet me.

“Princess, His Highness the Crown Prince arrived earlier and is waiting in the hall for the Princess to return.”

Only then did I remember inviting the Crown Prince to dine with me in my palace before leaving. I ordered dinner to be served, then walked straight up the steps into the hall.

Jingyan was sitting in an ebony chair. Seeing me enter, he immediately came forward, disregarding the dusty cold air I brought from outside, taking my hands and saying: “Imperial Sister, you’ve finally returned. You were gone so long that Jingyan was very worried. Did Chief Minister Zhao make things difficult for you?”

Feeling the warmth of his palms, I was stunned for a moment, unconsciously glancing at the high table beside the wooden chair. The table was completely empty. Jingyan followed my gaze, “What’s wrong?”

“I was just thinking that the servants in Changle Palace are so lacking in manners – you came and no one served tea. Someone come—”

Jingyan smiled, “They naturally served tea, but Jingyan thought that in this cold weather, drinking tea isn’t as satisfying as drinking wine, so I had the imperial kitchen select a jar of good wine to heat up…”

At this moment, a palace maid approached to report that dinner and heated wine were both ready, asking us to move to the side hall.

“Exactly right,” I smiled, “It just so happens that when I was searching through boxes this morning, I found a set of bronze cups that Father Emperor gave me. They’re exquisite antiques. Tonight with such fine mood, good wine with good vessels – we won’t return until we’re drunk.”

“Good! We won’t return until we’re drunk!”

When plates of delicious food were spread across the dinner table, I immediately felt ravenous. Jingyan was also quite appetized, smiling as he said: “Imperial Sister still dotes on me, preparing all my favorites.”

I picked up beef and chewed it with relish, “Imperial Sister can’t do without meat anyway. Having meat to eat puts me in a good mood.”

Jingyan picked up his chopsticks while asking: “Imperial Sister hasn’t said yet – how did things go at the Zhao mansion today?”

I smiled mysteriously, “Guess?”

“Imperial Sister…”

“Zhao Yanran compromised.” I raised my cup and took a light sip of plum wine, “As for Chief Minister Zhao… he didn’t seem particularly willing, but since this marriage was proposed by the Crown Prince, he couldn’t very well refuse it. However, the Crown Prince needn’t worry too much – as long as Yanran is willing to marry, this marriage is more than half successful.”

Hearing this, Jingyan was delighted, “Is Imperial Sister telling the truth?”

“When has Imperial Sister ever deceived you?”

Jingyan drained his wine in one gulp, “Your younger brother thanks Imperial Sister.”

After three rounds of drinks, the night grew deeper.

Jingyan couldn’t hold his liquor well and was already showing signs of intoxication, saying he should return early to rest.

I rose to see him off, then suddenly remembered something. I asked him to wait a moment, turned back to my bedchamber to take the bronze sword from the desk, and returned to hand it to him. Jingyan sobered up slightly and said in surprise: “This sword…”

I smiled and said: “This is Imperial Sister’s gift to you – the Autumn Water Sword. I wish you success in the Heaven Worship and early ascension to the throne.”

His eyes flashed slightly, and he nodded in thanks: “Such kindness is hard to refuse. Your younger brother accepts it gratefully.”

After Jingyan had walked just a few steps, my legs went weak and I nearly lost my balance.

The attending palace maid was startled, “Prin…”

“Shh—” I raised my finger in a silencing gesture. She was quite clever and immediately covered her mouth, supporting me.

I felt as if I’d been doused with a bucket of cold water, frozen from head to toe, my mind in complete chaos.

From the moment I entered Changle Palace, everything had become so strange.

Jingyan had been weak and sickly since childhood, carrying a hand warmer even in the cool autumn season. Yet on such a cold winter day, with no incense burner lit in the hall and no hand warmer in sight, his hands were warm when he held mine.

Setting that aside, the Crown Prince who usually collapsed after three cups actually invited me to drink, and after half a jar of strong wine, his expression remained unchanged. Even more incomprehensible was that when I mentioned being unable to do without meat, he showed no doubt – everyone in the palace knew that I had always loved fish and disliked meat since childhood.

And that sword of Imperial Elder Brother’s – the Soaring Sky Sword that Jingyan had yearned for since childhood, symbolizing a dragon soaring through the nine heavens – when I called it Autumn Water, he not only noticed nothing amiss, but his eyes looked as if seeing this sword for the first time.

I was so terrified I could barely breathe.

How was this possible?

How could this be!

This Crown Prince was fake.

(End of Chapter)

Author’s Note:

The Feng Li arc will completely end in the next chapter~~ The grand finale arc is about to begin~~~ Ta-da!

Rong Ge’s personal suggestion is that if you want to buy the book, you can pause after the next chapter. After all, you know my speed is quite erratic, and my writing while rushing drafts is completely thoughtless – just like writing a script, focusing only on plot~~ Although I love reading comments, I hope you enjoy reading rather than forgetting everything that came before~~~

Of course, if you want to see the Princess and Prince Consort’s romantic scenes, you can persist for two or three more chapters ==

Well then, good night~~~