When XiaoJian approached his godparents, they knew with one glance that something serious had happened.

Before XiaoJian could even open his mouth, Uncle spoke, "Well, Jian-er, you're off to another adventure, aren't you?"

XiaoJian nodded, "Yes. The scroll came from BeiJing. HuangShang wants to send us on a diplomatic trip to Burma. Yongqi, ErTai, and ErKang think I can help by being in charge of gathering information."

Aunty looked worried, "Jian-er, how do you feel about it?"

XiaoJian sighed, "Aunty, Uncle, I know you two have always supported my old Master's point of view, that I need to forgive and forget. Even when I decided to seek out revenge, you still let me know I always had a home here. But after all that has happened, especially after knowing XYZ and everyone else, I think I can finally do as the Master said…"

Uncle replied, "So you're saying…"

XiaoJian nodeed, "Yes. I'm saying I will help them. I can't stand by as my little sister walks off into a foreign nation…"

Uncle nodded, "And there's also Qing-er to think about, isn't there?"

XiaoJian smiled ruefully, "Yes. Yes there is. I never thought I would find someone like her. During our previous travels, ZiWei and XYZ were both so full of praise for Qing-er that I couldn't quite believe she could really exist. But then I met her and…I don't know what happened…but nothing else seemed important anymore, just her happiness."

Aunty smiled, "Jian-er, your Uncle and I are happy you have found someone like her. I can tell that her presence helps calm and sooth you. Your old Master, after you left to find your sister, told us that he really hoped you would find peace someday, that to be so consumed vengeance in one so young would eventually destroy you if you didn't eventually let it go. I'm so happy that Qing-er has been able to help you with your rage."

Uncle agreed, "Qing-er's a good girl. We'll be glad to add her to our family."

XiaoJian's smile broadened as he thought of Qing-er but then grew serious, "Aunty, Uncle, Qing-er had a thought…one I needed to talk over with you. I thought we would have more time together, but as things are…I don't know when we'll get another chance…Qing-er thought that maybe, maybe, there was more to my parents' deaths than we know."

Uncle sat up straighter, "What do you mean more?"

XiaoJian sighed, "Well. When I first traveled with XYZ and everyone, they were running for their lives. At least, we all thought so. It turns out that Huang Shang didn't want to kill them, that is was Huang Hou who sent out her own assassins all along. Qing-er thought that maybe, maybe something like that happened to my father. Perhaps he was framed."

Uncle and Aunty looked at each other.

Uncle, "You know, we've never really thought about that possibility…"

XiaoJian nodded, "I know. I haven't ever thought of it either until Qing-er spoke of it. But, do you think it's possible? After all, if it was Huang Shang, why would my mother send my sister to BeiJing? Why would she send her daughter closer to danger?"

Aunty said, "Jian-er, you have given us a lot to think about…But I'm afraid it'll have to wait until all of you return from Burma. This is much too serious a topic not to ponder thoroughly."

Uncle agreed, "One thing at a time. Jian-er, you take care. We'll be waiting for you to come home safely. All of you."

XiaoJian nodded, "I promise, we'll try our best."

In ErKang and ZiWei's room

ErKang held ZiWei close to him, "ZiWei, I see the logic of letting you come with us. But still…I don't know what I would do if something were to happen…This trip, we can plan all we want, but we're entering a foreign land, where we don't really have control…I'm so afraid that I won't be able to protect you…"

ZiWei leaned into him, "ErKang, I know. But we're both born into privilege and with that comes great responsibilities. And you know we can't deny the logic of having me and Qing-er accompany everyone. I am still hopefully for peace... I won't tell you not to worry, because to be honest, I am well aware of the possible dangers we're walking towards, but I have faith that everything will be alright. Remember, ErKang? I told you once that as long as you're by my side, I'm not afraid of anything. And it's still true. Besides, it's better that we be together. XiaoYanZi might think that I can sit here and wait for you to come back, but I know I cannot. If I can come with you, I will."

ErKang replied, "Thank you, ZiWei, thank you for your faith in me. If we're truly to negotiate with the Burmese, then I can't imagine bringing better examples of Manchu culture than you and Qing-er. I won't worry any less, but if you feel truly resolute, then we'll just have to make plans within plans. I am taking no risks with your safety."

ZiWei nodded, "I would expect no less from you."

In ErTai and SaiYa's room

ErTai was looking at SaiYa worriedly, "SaiYa, you know you don't have to come, right?"

SaiYa looked at him with raised eyebrows, "Are you saying you don't think I can handle it?"

ErTai shook his head, "Of course not. In the time I've lived in your father's court, I've seen your hidden shrewdness. Others tend to underestimate you and you use that to your advantage. I know you can hold your own in matters of diplomacy. But still…"

SaiYa took his hand in hers, "I know, ErTai. When my father brought me to BeiJing, I didn't quite know what to expect. In a way, I felt like I was walking to my doom. But I also knew it was my responsibility, for the good of our people, to maintain the peace. And in a way, this trip will be similar, only I won't be used as a bargaining chip…There's also another key difference…"

ErTai asked curiously, "Oh? And what is that?"

SaiYa smiled, "You. You and all of our friends, no, they're more than our friends. Our family. I won't be alone. I think as long as we plan right and make sure we communicate well with each other, we will succeed."

ErTai frowned, "How can you be so sure?"

SaiYa remained resolute, "Think about it. You, Yongqi, ErKang, and XiaoJian are among the most exemplary of Qing dynasty men. But we'll also have the benefits of us girls. Between the four of us, we represent a different façade of our country, the court, and even the Emperor. Qing-er is the traditional princess, representing many of the traditional Manchu values. The fact that Huang Shang treats her as a daughter after the death of her parents speaks to his appreciation for family. ZiWei is the reclaimed princess, with the blood of both the Manchu and the Han people flowing in her veins. Huang Shang's acceptance of her speaks of his humanity, particularly with regards to love and appreciation for true talent. Xiao Yan Zi is truly the princess of the people; her status as Huan Zhu Ge Ge and her marriage to Wu Ah Ge reflects the Emperor's great care for the happiness of his children and his people. And me, as your brother said, I am a bride of the Qing dynasty, made for political gain. But Huang Shang still allows me to keep my traditional garb and customs. Even though I know there are many at court who would prefer that I assimilate to your Manchu styles, Huang Shang has not pressed the issue. Have you not noticed? Ever since we returned to BeiJing, every time we visit the Palace, the Imperial kitchen always has a dish from my homeland ready. Indeed, even when Hang Xiang was Xiang Fei Niang Niang (back when she was a concubine), the Emperor actually built her a dwelling based on the customs of her homeland. Even if Huang Shang wants to expand his empire, he is still willing to allow us border countries to retain some level of autonomy. If the Burmese are smart, then they should see the implications of our presence."

ErTai shook his head in wonderment, "You present such sound reasoning and I know you're right. Still…I can't help but worry." He smiled ruefully, "I remember when ZiWei took the knife for the Emperor before we straightened out her identity and status. I had to restrain my brother from physically hurting himself in his anxiety. I had never seen him so agitated; he has always been the model son, the ever logical, ever calm one. And to see him lose his cool like that…it was a revelation. But now I think I understand. With you, I can see how I might lose my self control as well."

SaiYai leaned her head on her husband's shoulder, "ZiWei asked me, before we came on this trip, if I was happy with you…and though I never expected to be, I really am. And in a way, I think that will benefit us on this trip too. After taking me as your bride, you were willing to come live in my homeland and adapt to our customs, get to know our culture. I think based on our happiness, the Burmese king will be more willing to give up a daughter if another political marriage is truly needed. Indeed, the general way your brother and Yongqi treat their wives should allay his fears about his daughter's happiness."

ErTai wrapped an arm around his wife, "I'm glad you're happy with me. Truth be told, after witnessing the devotion my brother and ZiWei have for each other, I thought that I would never find similar happiness for myself. I also didn't really expect to since it really wasn't practical and that level of devotion is rare in the world in which I grew up. But with you, I have found more than mere contentment; I have found a partner…because I am as much a bargaining chip as you were. Your father took a risk bringing back a Manchu husband for you, but I think we have managed to be ambassadors for both of our respective countries… I just hope and pray that the Burmese are as astute as you are…Alright, so we've decided, we'll go together."

SaiYa nodded resolutely, "Yes. We're partners to the end, whatever that end may be."

In Yongqi and Xiao Yan Zi's room

Yongqi sat worriedly at the tea table, his hands fiddling with the scroll that had been delivered earlier.

Xiao Yan Zi sat observing him for a bit before breaking the silence, "Yongqi, stop worrying. I'll be on my best behavior, I promise. I may not be as smart as ZiWei or Qing-er, but even I know this is an important trip. Even though I wish I didn't have to deal with this, I have come to accept this as part of the price of marrying you. As much as I hate being told what to do, in this case, I'll listen, I will. You might not believe it, but I promise I can be serious too."

Yongqi sighed and looked at Xiao Yan Zi, "I believe you, I do…It's just, I didn't expect Huang Ah Ma to trust me with so large a responsibility…"

XYZ blinked, "Why wouldn't he? You've always been so responsible and level headed. You can do anything! Besides, he always seems so delighted with all those papers you wrote for him."

Her faith in him made Yongqi smile despite himself, "Thank you XYZ, for your faith in me…But writing solutions is one thing, actually carrying it out…It's just that I'm concerned…why he would put me in charge…I'm worried…never mind, I don't want to worry you."

XYZ cocked her head and said softly, "You can't always protect me, you know."

Yonqi blinked at her perceptiveness, "Doesn't mean I'll stop trying."

XYZ nodded, "I know. But Yonqi, I'm not some wilting flower. I know when I first entered the Palace, my headstrongness constantly got me in trouble. I understand now that ErKang tried so hard to make sure ZiWei made it into the Palace not just so he could ultimately marry her but also to keep me safe. But I'd like to think I'm not the same irresponsible girl that I was. With all the time I spend with Qing-er and all that she has been teaching me about the history of the dynasty and your family, I know a little bit better the responsibilities I face as your wife. And I don't just mean all the bowing and all the handkerchief maneuvers. I know you have responsibilities; ones that I can't even hope to comprehend much less help you with, but I promised myself that I wouldn't hold you back. I know you said you didn't want the throne, but that doesn't mean you won't keep being a dutiful prince. I know you and your dedication; it's one of the things I admire most about you."

Yongqi grabbed her hands and held them in his own, "XYZ, you're always able to surprise me. I'm so humbled by you and your willingness to change for me, especially since I know it's against your very nature to be so constrained by rules and customs. I'm grateful for your efforts, even though I never wanted to burden you with my responsibilities. I don't want you to lose your laughter…"

XYZ smiled, a little wistfully, "I know. But Yongqi, I don't think I'm losing my laughter; I'm just learning the proper times to laugh. You needn't worry about burdening me since I don't think I'll ever actually be able to help you with your responsibilities and various tasks. But I can be here for you. HAM said I'm his kai xin guo, and I really think that's my talent. Just like how ZiWei can recite poetry and play the zither, so I can be relied on always to be a little foolish. I guess…I guess what I mean is that everyone has to grow up a little sometimes, even me, but it doesn't mean I'm not me anymore."

Yongqi nodded and sighed, "Alright…XYZ, you've convinced me…I'm worried that that I'll fail in this task and make it worse. I'm worried about leading all of us into Burma. Er Kang had always been the planner, the leader in the all our adventures. Your brother too. The two of them are older, more experienced. I'm not used to having to take charge. And I can't make any mistakes, because it's not just my life at stake. Not even just our family's lives, but the fate of a nation. For all the glorified poetic phrases about war and battle, I've seen the death tallies too. And the burden the common people have, the increases taxes to raise revenue for war. And it's all just senseless killing in the end. No, there is no honor in war, just bloodshed. I don't want that to happen. I can't let that happen. But I don't know if I'm ready for this responsibility. I feel so alone."

XYZ replied, "You're not alone Yongqi. If nothing else, you have me. But it's really not just me. You still have Er Kang and my brother to help. And Qing-er and ZiWei are both so smart. Not to mention we have Er Tai and SaiYa now too! Besides, you did a wonderful job with the Wang-Da-Ye situation; I heard him say so. When we were traveling, that was different. You had no expertise in the commoners' world. But in this instance, you've had training. If HAM believes in you, then I see no reason why you shouldn't believe in yourself. Yongqi…come now… I hate to see you so worried..."

Yongqi smiled gratefully at XYZ and gave her a quick peck on the lips, "Thank you XYZ. Thank you for your faith in me."

XYZ smiled back and quipped, "No problem. Who knows, maybe Burma will have some new martial arts masters I can learn from!"

Yonqi looked surprised for a moment but then laughed, the tension easing out of him, "Oh XYZ, only you! Only you would see a treaty discussion trip as an opportunity to gain more masters!"

In the pagoda in the Xiao estate garden

Qing-er had her head raised to look at the moon when XiaoJian came to find her. She lowered her head when she heard his footsteps and smiled in greeting, "How did the talk go?"

XiaoJian, upon seeing her, couldn't help the smile that broke across his countenance. He immediately sat down next to her and nodded, "Uncle and Aunty are very understanding…I think they're used to me running off on adventures now."

Qing-er chuckled along with XiaoJian, "They're both such wonderful people; they welcomed all of us with open arms and no questions asked. Did you know, your Aunty sought me out earlier this week, to make sure that I knew she and Uncle accept me wholeheartedly into the family?"

XiaoJian looked surprised, but delighted, "She did that?!"

Qing-er nodded, "Yes, it was a bit embarrassing at first, since, well, it's not like we're officially betrothed, that will have to wait until we go back to BeiJing, but she was so kind and so…motherly."

XiaoJian smiled, "That she is. I think that's part of why I feel guilty about how XYZ grew up; I had the benefits of a loving family, with Uncle and Aunty here in DaLi. Whereas she grew up having only herself to rely upon."

Qing-er shook her head, "That may be true, but you needn't feel guilty about it. Particularly since XYZ just ended up building a family of her own…Come now, we have gotten off topic, what do you truly think about this whole Burma situation?"

XiaoJian also grew serious, "I agree with ErTai. As much as our goal is for peace, we must also plan for war. We must tread very carefully."

Qing-er nodded in agreement as XiaoJian continued, "And I agree with your comment about including you and ZiWei…at least in principal and logic I understand it. But somehow, in my heart…I've hardly ever made decisions with my heart before…I've always been careful to stay objective. For some reason, however, in this case, I can't. I just want you to stay here, safe and secure."

He looked at her so earnestly, so trustingly as he shared his insecurities, that Qing-er felt her heart melt even more so that when she spoke, it was in a voice choked with emotion, "XiaoJian…That really means a lot to me, that you're willing to open up to me like this. I know I should apologize for running your peace of mind, but somehow I can't bring myself to, since it's only serving to bring us closer. But you needn't worry. ZiWei and I will both be well-protected. If we can't always be with you men for negotiations, then we will protect one another. With everything that you've taught XYZ, she's perfectly capable of defending us."

XiaoJian drew her into his arms as he sighed and nodded silently. Qing-er understood his need for reassurance and leaned into him. And so the couple drew strength from one another as the moon bathed them in its soft glow.