Volume III, Real Ancient Capital, Chapter 77: The day will be over
By Xiao Xiang Dong'Er | Translated and Arranged by Angel Chua
The world is full of surprises!
As the day ended, the grand hall fell into a deep silence. People stood still for a long time, trying to absorb the little princess's startling words. Then, as if unleashed by a sudden storm, a loud noise erupted like waves crashing on the shore, swallowing the thin figure entirely.
"Nonsense!" Shu Guiyu snapped coldly. Her once delicate face hardened into a frosty mask. Queen Mu He, who oversaw Zhao's marriage arrangements, was equally stunned. At that moment, hearing the little princess publicly express such rebellious thoughts felt profoundly unsettling.
Zhao Hao's daughter knelt on the ground, her eyes reddened, face pale, and lips trembling. Yet she raised her head again and said firmly, "Father, please reclaim your command. I will not marry."
Shu Guiyu's brow twitched, and she retorted coldly, "The Yanbei North wedding procession has already reached the city gates. Your marriage was announced to the world a month ago. And now you say you won't marry, in front of the envoys from various nations? Is this what Mu He taught you?"
"The deceased are at rest, and Shu sister shouldn't disturb them," Zhuge Yue said softly. His eyes, narrow and calculating, flicked briefly toward Zhao Yi'er. His face, as delicate as a spring peach blossom, looked serene, but there was a smile playing on his lips. "If you don't want to leave your father, why not marry? You can still visit him often."
Zhao Chun'er, her eyes misty with unshed tears, remained resolute. "Father, I don't want to marry. If I must, please ask for my father's permission to take back his order."
The hall's atmosphere grew tense. The emperor, Xia Huang, remained silent, his face flickering in the dim light. His expression was unreadable as the palace gongs echoed outside. The imperial guards approached Zhao Chun'er, ready to escort her to the Yanbei carriage.
"Let me go!" the little princess shouted. She swatted away the maid's hands and crawled forward on her knees. Tears streamed down her face, but she bravely wiped them away. Despite her fear of her father, she pushed on, her voice quivering yet determined. "Father, please take back your order."
"Chun'er!" Zhao Che's voice was sharp and cold as he commanded, "Stop this nonsense!"
The warriors in the hall exchanged uneasy glances, the heavy silence punctuated only by the distant sounds of the palace doors opening and closing.
"Seventh brother," Zhao Chun'er's voice cracked as she turned toward Zhao Che, her eyes pleading. "Please help me. I don't want to marry. Beg father for me."
Zhao Che hesitated, but eventually, he nodded and said firmly, "The sons and daughters of the emperor obey his will."
"Father!" Zhao Chun'er cried, her voice breaking. She fell into a desperate sob, "I would rather marry into the wilderness, to southern Xinjiang, or even to the frontiers than to Yanbei. Please, father, change your order!"
"Enough!" Xia Huang interrupted, not even glancing at her. His voice was flat, as if he hadn't heard her pleas. "Go with your brother. Prepare yourself for the wedding."
Zhao Chun'er, still kneeling, began to sob loudly, her forehead striking the floor with each desperate plea. Blood from her head stained the white carpet, shocking those present. But no one dared to meet the emperor's gaze. He sat still, his eyes cold and unyielding.
"Chun'er is always so filial," someone finally ventured, trying to ease the tension. "She's probably just reluctant to leave her family."
Xuan Chai's remark had barely settled when the Manchu guests unanimously agreed, and the atmosphere in the hall suddenly became lively. The Cui University Scholar from the Shangshu Bureau shook his head and said, "Princess Ren Xiao, it is indeed rare to see someone cry on the eve of marriage. The princess's actions speak to her sense of righteousness."
"Your Majesty is kind and protective of the princess. Naturally, the children are sad when they have to leave home and will no longer be able to hear the emperor's teachings regularly," another courtier chimed in.
"Indeed, that must be it," the crowd murmured in agreement.
Amidst the bustling scene, no one noticed Chu Qiao quietly standing up and preparing to leave. But just as she got to her feet, someone grabbed her sleeve. Zhuge Yue, seated and sipping wine, glanced up at her. His lips were still stained with the remnants of red wine, and a mischievous smirk played on his face. His voice, low and scratchy, rose slightly, "Where are you going?"
Chu Qiao crouched down to meet his gaze, her face close to Zhuge Yue's, and replied sarcastically, "Are we so close that you need to interfere in my business, Fourth Young Master?"
Zhuge Yue leaned in further, his nose almost touching hers, his warm breath brushing against her cheek. "Leaving before the feast is over is quite rude," he remarked softly, his eyes gleaming with amusement.
Chu Qiao's expression hardened, her eyes narrowing as she shot back, "This is the Grand Summer Palace, not your Aoyama estate. You seem to enjoy overstepping your boundaries, Fourth Young Master."
As her words faded, Chu Qiao swiftly grabbed Zhuge Yue's wrist and knocked it aside. Pressing her palm firmly on the floor, she smoothly rose and stepped away from him.
Zhuge Yue's eyes narrowed, dark as ink, as he gave a cold smile. "You may walk on rough roads, but I'm still a busybody."
Before he could finish his sentence, his hand snaked out to grab her wrist, but Chu Qiao was quick. His grip slipped, and she skillfully dodged.
"Is that so? It's been years, and I see the Fourth Young Master has changed. I always thought you were a cold-blooded, emotionless man, unmoved by the world around you."
With a precise movement, she struck at his elbow, aiming sharply, only to be met with Zhuge Yue's swift counter. His arm folded back smoothly, avoiding her grasp.
"You're quite skilled, but cold-blooded or not, it seems I still have my moments of sentimentality," Zhuge Yue said, his voice laced with irony.
Beneath the long tablecloth, hidden from the rest of the hall, the two sparred quickly and quietly. The festive air in the room covered their brief skirmish, and none of the guests paid them any attention.
Suddenly, Li Ce jumped up behind them, grinning broadly. "What are you two talking about so eagerly? Mind if I join?"
His sudden appearance startled both Zhuge Yue and Chu Qiao, interrupting their silent battle. Li Ce's eyes flashed with playful curiosity, though there was an edge of irritation in his voice.
Chu Qiao cast a cold glance at Li Ce before turning away. Zhuge Yue, still smiling, teased, "I'm just heading to the bathroom. Does the Fourth Young Master plan to accompany me?"
Zhuge Yue blinked, momentarily surprised. He hadn't expected Chu Qiao, a young woman, to use such an excuse to evade him. His indifferent expression flickered, and his cheeks flushed slightly, the mischievous charm momentarily slipping.
Chu Qiao stood up, clearly pleased with herself. She even reached out and patted Zhuge Yue's cheek lightly, whispering, "Don't follow me. Remember your place. You're a nobleman of the Seven Great Clans, and yet you're trailing after a mere commoner. What would people think of that?"
The crisp sound of her words hung in the air as Zhuge Yue's expression darkened. He looked furious, ready to retort, but before he could, Chu Qiao had already turned and swaggered out of the hall, disappearing into the shadows. Behind her, the crowd of ladies and daughters stared in shock, their eyes wide with disbelief at the scene that had just unfolded.
The once-untouchable Zhuge Yue, scion of one of the most powerful families, had been outwitted by a lowly commoner—and in public, no less.
With a heavy thud, Zhuge Yue slammed his glass onto the table, his brow furrowing in anger.
"Quite the opportunity!" muttered the Bian Tang prince seated nearby, eyeing Zhuge Yue with envy.
Zhuge Yue shot him a disgusted look and turned away, boredly watching the entertainment in the hall.
A crisp sound suddenly echoed through the hall as Zhuge Yue, his face flushed with anger, slammed his glass down. Just as he was about to speak, he noticed that Chu Qiao had swaggered out of the side hall and disappeared into the thick darkness outside. All around, strange and curious glances followed her, especially from the young ladies of the court. They stared in disbelief at the once-lofty and untouchable Zhuge Yue, who had just been humiliated by a commoner in front of them.
The shock was palpable. The Fourth Young Master of the mighty Zhuge family, tricked and outwitted by a lowly commoner?
A sharp "pop" sounded as Zhuge Yue gripped his glass tightly, his brow furrowed into a deep frown, forming the character of "Sichuan" between his eyes.
"Opportunities like this are rare!" remarked the Bian Tang prince, who sat nearby, his eyes gleaming with envy. Zhuge Yue, however, found this man increasingly irritating.
Turning away in disgust, Zhuge Yue boredly shifted his attention back to the songs and dances unfolding in the main hall, but his thoughts were elsewhere.
Just outside the palace, Chu Qiao felt the cool wind blowing against her. She turned to look back and noticed Li Ce slipping out from behind her, his long robe trailing behind him. He wore an embarrassed smile as he rubbed his hands together and said quietly, "Out of the darkness... I'll accompany you."
Chu Qiao raised an eyebrow, her expression darkening. Li Ce, sensing the change in her mood, quickly took two steps back and, with a slightly awkward laugh, added, "I'll just wait for you out here."
"Where exactly do you plan to go?" Chu Qiao smiled sweetly, but there was a cold, dangerous edge to her voice.
Li Ce felt a shiver run up his spine as he quickly waved his hands in protest, saying, "I'll just wait right here!"
Satisfied with his response, Chu Qiao patted him lightly on the head and smiled. "Good boy. Stay obedient."
Li Ce couldn't shake the feeling that her smile, though sweet, was more menacing than ever.
With her plan set in motion, Chu Qiao moved swiftly through the night, her thoughts on Yan Xun. She needed to attend the meeting and play her part to ensure the success of their plan. The situation had to appear stable, and any suspicion needed to be deflected. Thankfully, Zhao Yi'er (Chun'er) had provided an excellent distraction, giving Chu Qiao the cover she needed to slip away unnoticed.
The timing was perfect. As Chu Qiao moved stealthily through the shadows, she signaled to the hidden forces scattered across the Imperial City. In response, countless figures moved swiftly, their movements shrouded by the night. The dark sky became their ally, their best protection. Watching from the shadows, Chu Qiao's lips curled into a cold smile.
"Brilliant. Welcome to hell."
With the grace of a predator, Chu Qiao darted through the dark corridors, the chilly wind whipping against her face like a hidden beast stalking its prey. Her target was a seemingly humble outpost located near the northwest Xi'an Gate of the Imperial City.
Inside, the guard on duty was whistling lazily, his legs propped up on the bed, completely unaware of the danger approaching.
Without hesitation, Chu Qiao slipped inside.
No more pretense, no more disguise. Moving silently, she approached the guard. He barely had time to register her presence before her hand shot out like lightning. With one swift motion, she clamped a hand over his mouth, stifling his cry, while her other hand held a blade that sliced across his throat in a clean, practiced motion.
Deep stab. Horizontal pull. No theatrics. No hesitation.
Murder, in many cases, is a simple thing.
Blood bloomed from the guard's throat, the red beads quickly becoming a stream. As his body slumped to the floor, his pupils dilated, and the life drained out of him. The soft, gurgling sound of his last breath was the only noise he made as the red blood soaked into the bed, staining the sheets.
Chu Qiao calmly pulled the quilt over the body and slipped out of the room, heading for her next destination.
This was her mission, alongside her comrades. With the outside forces moving into position and the palace forces paralyzed, the empire's defenses were collapsing from within. Within the first hour of Yan Qiong raising her banner of rebellion, the empire's military and communication systems were brought to their knees, turning the mighty Imperial City into a sleeping giant.
In that short span of time, the Datong Association's plans bore fruit. The blue fireworks signaling success lit up the sky outside the city. The "night owl" sound echoed repeatedly throughout the Imperial City as Chu Qiao watched from a hidden corner in the dead silence of the Royal Garden. The final piece of the plan was now in place. On the ground before her was a dense series of markings, a "positive" character carved into the earth, symbolizing that the task was complete.
That night, far too many lives were lost without reason. They came from different walks of life, never having met one another or shared any common ground in their lifetimes.
Among the dead were the liaison officers of the Royal Metropolitan Security Service, senior military officials of the 7th Army, low-ranking gate guards, horse traders with critical information, messenger soldiers from the Outer City Office, soldiers from the Water Dragons Bureau, and the eunuch Sun Yi Pu. Guard posts from each city gate were left abandoned, their watchmen among the casualties.
The Great Peer Association's mission was to safeguard justice, build a fair society, eradicate slavery, and promote equality for all. The organization's leaders held enough power to influence the course of the world, yet they refrained from resorting to killing unless absolutely necessary.
Chu Qiao was no mass murderer. Her method of killing was precise and calculated, each target chosen for a specific purpose. Every death achieved a certain effect, and she mastered this art with cold efficiency. Each life she took was part of a larger design, a thread woven into the grander scheme, and now, she was ready to pull it tight.
With the preparatory work completed, everything was falling into place.
Chu Qiao rose to her feet and turned to leave. But in the dim light of the endless night, she saw a slender figure standing still. The cold moonlight bathed the figure in a silvery glow, making it appear like a lone peak of silver in the dark landscape.
"Smart move," the man in the shadows said in a low, indifferent voice.
The initial shock she had felt was long gone. Chu Qiao looked ahead coldly, her eyes scanning the surroundings to check if anyone else was present.
"You don't need to look around," the man said, taking two steps forward. The moonlight revealed a purple robe that shimmered as though dusted with silver. His face was strikingly beautiful, almost feminine, but his eyes were as cold as ice. Walking slowly toward her, his voice was calm as he asked, "Where are you going? And who's your next target?"
The young woman's expression darkened, and she spat two cold words: "Get lost."
"How naïve," Zhuge Yue scoffed, a sneer curling on his lips.
The sound of "squeak" echoed as they shifted their stances. Chu Qiao moved like the wind, her fists flying, waist twisting, her body fluid like a leaf in the breeze. Zhuge Yue didn't expect her attack, but he countered immediately. The two exchanged blows rapidly, their movements quick and elegant. For a moment, they were perfectly matched, their fight precise and controlled.
Suddenly, the cold wind swept through, and two muffled blows landed as their fists collided with each other's chests. The force was enough to make them both grunt and step back, a momentary stalemate forming between them.
"Yan Xun will never succeed in leading this rebellion," Zhuge Yue said coldly, wiping the sweat from his brow with the back of his hand. "General Bali and Wei Shu Ye have laid the trap, and the empire's forces will crush the rebellion. Yan Xun has no chance."
Chu Qiao glared at him, her voice cutting as she replied, "A slave!"
Zhuge Yue's expression twisted in fury. "What did you say?"
"Zhuge Yue," Chu Qiao sneered. "I used to think you were just another noble, self-righteous and blinded by privilege. But now I see clearly—you're nothing more than a slave to the Zhao family."
Zhuge Yue's face paled. "I'm not loyal to Zhao. I'm loyal to the great Xia dynasty."
"And what's the difference?" Chu Qiao retorted, her voice dripping with scorn. "Don't delude yourself with grand ideals. History is written by the victors, and if Yan Xun wins, your name will go down as nothing more than a lackey who served a dying empire."
"You really believe in him, don't you?" Zhuge Yue smiled coldly. "Well, let's see how he escapes from this situation."
Chu Qiao's eyes gleamed with deadly intent. "I'm afraid you won't get that chance."
Her killing intent was unmistakable as their fight resumed. Chu Qiao drew her dagger, and the two clashed fiercely under the moonlight. Their figures, dark and swift, darted among the trees and bushes like shadows locked in a deadly dance.
"You're following him straight to your own death!" Zhuge Yue snarled, his hand deftly disarming her wrist and gaining the upper hand.
"Thank you for your concern, but perhaps you should worry about yourself first!" Chu Qiao countered, twisting away and leaping onto Zhuge Yue's shoulders, swinging her dagger mercilessly.
"Many who walk the path of injustice meet their demise. Don't force me to kill you!" Zhuge Yue warned, blocking her strike.
"You and I are enemies. There's no reason to hold back," Chu Qiao snapped back.
Suddenly, the sound of hurried footsteps approached. Both of them froze mid-fight, instinctively stopping to assess the situation. They heard the approaching guards and quickly dove to the left, hiding in the thick foliage.
But they weren't safe for long. Another group of soldiers appeared, and the two of them were forced to scramble once more, forgetting their own fight as they evaded detection.
"To the east! Keep up!" one of the guards shouted as the palace soldiers closed in.
Zhuge Yue, now frustrated, grabbed Chu Qiao by the wrist and growled quietly, "Are you trying to die? Stop this!"
Chu Qiao scowled angrily and said, "Why are you following me?"
Zhuge Yue, equally furious, retorted, "Who's following you?"
"Just ahead, move fast!" she snapped.
With a swift kick, Chu Qiao struck Zhuge's shin. His eyes flared with anger, exposing his murderous intent as he growled, "I don't know any madwoman like you!"
Half-kneeling on the ground, Chu Qiao sneered, her voice icy, "Stalker of lowly men!"
"Move quickly!" came the sound of soldiers closing in, now just ten steps away. Both Chu Qiao and Zhuge Yue exchanged startled looks, immediately releasing each other's hands and rolling sideways into the dense flowers to hide.
"Where?" one of the guards asked.
The lead guard shook his head cautiously. "Impossible, I'm sure I saw shadows moving."
"Sir, it's just a cat, a garden cat," one of the soldiers suggested.
"No, I know what I saw," the leader replied coldly. "Search everywhere. Tonight is His Majesty's birthday—don't make any mistakes."
"Yes, sir!"
The soldiers moved away, their figures fading into the distance. Chu Qiao and Zhuge Yue remained hidden, their vigilant eyes watching until the guards were out of sight.
Suddenly, there was a sharp "bang" as Zhuge Yue felt a stabbing pain in his abdomen. Before he could react, Chu Qiao's body was on top of him, pinning him down. Zhuge Yue hadn't expected her to strike at that moment, and his momentary lapse allowed her to overpower him. He was almost about to cry out from the pain, but in the next second, Chu Qiao had tied him up with a rope.
"Look at you," Chu Qiao said coldly, glaring down at him. "You were about to call for help to capture me. I'm not going to kill you today."
She stood up, her gaze still locked on him as she continued icily, "Zhuge Yue, eight years ago, you didn't expose me—you gave me a way to survive. I won't forget that. But that doesn't erase the hatred between us. You, a noble gatekeeper, killed innocent slaves, and those people mattered to me. You also attacked Yan Xun, forcing us into eight years of captivity. You and I have always been enemies, and we'll never be able to reconcile. I hope you understand this: the only reason I'm not killing you today is because I choose not to. But next time we meet, you'd better be prepared."
Zhuge Yue's face turned pale with anger as he watched her turn to leave. His voice, cold and biting, called out after her, "You've made it out of the Imperial City for now, but tell me, how do you plan to kill me later?"
Chu Qiao glanced back with a smile. "You don't have faith in Yan Xun? I think you'll be surprised. Care to make a bet?"
Zhuge Yue's expression remained indifferent, a mocking smile tugging at his lips, but he said nothing.
"You think we won't escape and that we'll all die," Chu Qiao continued. "But I'm sure that not only will we escape, we'll leave in such grand fashion that all of Ximeng Continent will know about it. The people of Yanbei will know: their king is coming back!"
At that moment, her face shone with a light that seemed to cut through the darkness, a light of confidence and determination. In that dark night, she appeared radiant, as if bathed in a miraculous glow.
It was a kind of unwavering trust and respect, a belief so strong that it left no room for doubt. And in that moment, Zhuge Yue's smile faltered. Why, he thought bitterly, was he not the one to whom she gave such trust?
As she looked back at him, her confidence was unmistakable. "Zhuge Yue," she said calmly, "watch closely."
That night became a memory that Zhuge Yue could never forget. Even after many years had passed, he still remembered the look on the young girl's face as she left—full of confidence. She had told him, "Zhuge Yue, just watch." And so, he had watched her, as she briskly disappeared from his sight like a gust of wind, like a passing cloud, just as she had done eight years ago when she had screamed in defiance, "I will not die!"
She was always a woman who meant what she said. As the world plunged into turmoil, with chaos sweeping across their lives, disrupting their paths and destroying their dreams, Zhuge Yue would always regret that night. If he had known what would happen, would he have let her leave? Would he have stood by silently? But hindsight was worthless, and so he lay quietly in the cold grass, watching the girl's figure disappear into the layers of darkness. Like a proud phoenix, she left his sight and entered a new world, where unparalleled brilliance awaited her.
Under the endless night sky, fireworks lit up the heavens, dazzling and unparalleled.
"The Emperor!" A panicked voice suddenly rang out from outside the hall. A eunuch burst in, falling to his knees, his voice trembling with tears. "Your Majesty! Princess Chun'er—Princess Chun'er—she…"
"What happened to the eighth princess?" Zhao Song demanded angrily as he stood up.
The eunuch's face crumpled in distress as he wailed, "Princess Chun, she has run away!"
"What?" Shu Guixi's eyebrows shot up, and her face tightened with fury. "How did she run away? Where did she go? How could you let the princess escape? What use are you?"
"Your servant deserves death! Your servant deserves death!" the eunuch cried, kowtowing furiously. "Your Majesty, please show mercy!"
The wedding was fast approaching, and yet the bride had run away. Everyone exchanged tense looks. Zhao Che stood up and spoke coldly, "Quiet! First, explain when and where the princess disappeared."
Just as the eunuch opened his mouth to respond, loud gongs and a sharp horn blared from outside. The urgency of the sound made the entire hall tremble.
"What's happening outside?" the Emperor asked quietly, his brows furrowed.
"Report!" A bodyguard dressed in Tsing Yi burst through the long curtain, breathless. "Your Majesty, Your Royal Highnesses, we must move to safety. A fire has broken out in the palace, and it is spreading uncontrollably."
"Fire?" The third prince, Zhao Qi, was incredulous. "Where is the fire? Where is the Water Dragon Bureau? Why aren't they responding?"
"We sent word to the Water Dragon Bureau, but we've yet to receive any response. As for the fire, Your Highness, the flames are everywhere. We can't determine the source, but the palace is burning. We must move quickly."
"Outrageous!" Zhao Qi shouted coldly. "Sun Yun Park at the Dragon Bureau won't escape punishment for this failure!"
"There's no point arguing over whose responsibility it is, Father. The fire is too dangerous. We need to leave this place quickly," Zhao Che urged.
Xia Huang frowned but nodded, rising from his seat. Eunuchs hurried forward to assist on either side, though they had no time to smooth the folds of his robes. Before they could move, another cry came from outside. A soldier rushed in, kneeling as he loudly proclaimed, "Your Majesty, please don't leave Fang Gui Hall. It's not safe outside. A large group of assassins has infiltrated the palace. Over sixty people have been killed, and the death toll is still rising!"
The moment these words were uttered, the hall descended into chaos. Officials who had been holding their fear at bay were now visibly panicking, and murmurs of concern filled the room. Zhao Che's brow furrowed deeply as he quickly asked, "Who has been assassinated?"
The soldier listed the dead grimly: "A commander of the Royal Guard, the army commander, the garrison commander of the west gate, the garrison commander of the south gate, a sentinel at each communication post, an officer of the Dragon Guard, Sun Sungpu, and the guards at the southwest gate..."
As the soldier continued naming those who had been killed, Zhao Che exchanged tense looks with the Mongolian generals, both of whom had extensive military experience. The names seemed random at first glance, but upon deeper analysis, it was clear these assassinations were deliberate and highly strategic. The empire's mid-level command structure had been decimated, leaving the military's leadership paralyzed. This sudden weakness in the chain of command made the imperial forces vulnerable and unable to respond quickly.
The gravity of the situation was apparent: they had no idea what they were up against that night.
"Report!" another urgent cry rang out, causing the officials to tremble in fear. At this point, they almost flinched instinctively at the sound of another report, dreading more bad news. Before the soldier could speak, Zhao Qi anxiously asked, "Has anyone else been killed?"
The soldier looked momentarily confused, then shook his head. "No, Your Highness."
There was a collective sigh of relief, but the respite was short-lived as the soldier continued, "Your Majesty, something serious has happened! Fires have broken out all across the city: at Ectopicostachyus Square, Southwest Temple, Daan Temple, Jiujie Street, South Chishui, Xizhimen Huarong City, the west residential areas, Curio City to the east, East Bank Camp, and the Southern School. Shops are being looted, thieves are running rampant, and Jiuwei Street has descended into chaos. Casualties are numerous. We estimate that over 30,000 people have joined the riots."
As the soldier's words sank in, several veteran officials nearly fainted from shock. Zhao Song, his face pale, asked urgently, "Is this an organized attack? Is it the Green Camp? Is it the southwestern government?"
The soldier responded quickly, "Your Highness, General Song Sen has already deployed troops to try and restore order in the city. The rioters include local rogue bands, students from Taixue, foreign merchants, and ordinary citizens who were robbed. Some are trying to reclaim their possessions, but many of the city's security soldiers have also joined in the looting."
Zhao Song frowned in disbelief. "The Security Service soldiers are looting? Didn't you order them to maintain order?"
The soldier's expression darkened. "Your Highness, the soldiers of the Guard Department were sent out to control the crowds, but some of them were overwhelmed. Some gave in to fear, others were tempted by money, and they discarded their uniforms and joined the looters. The situation has spiraled out of control. This is no ordinary riot—there are clearly people behind the scenes inciting the violence. General Song Sen reports that more and more citizens are joining the chaos. If we don't act quickly, the entire capital will fall into anarchy. Your Majesty, we need to make a decision now."
All eyes turned to the emperor. Xia Huang stood on the dais, his face pale and grim. The weight of the situation bore down on him, and for a long time, he didn't speak.
"The Emperor! The Emperor!" Another panicked voice broke the silence. A bloodied soldier stumbled into the hall, his face pale with terror. The sight of him sent a chill through the room, and fear gripped everyone's hearts. No one dared ask what had happened.
Zhao Che stepped forward, his expression calm despite the growing chaos. "What's the situation?" he asked quietly.
"Yan Xun has rebelled!" the soldier blurted. "He's leading the army of the southwestern township. They've taken over the Green Camp army, Xiaoqi riding camp, the Seventh Army, the Ninth Army, and sixteen battalions of cavalry. Communication between the Royal Palace and the Yinmen Gate has been severed. The entire city's communication lines are cut off. No one survived the attacks at the South, North, and East Gates—they've all been overrun by Yan Xun's forces. Twelve divisions, nineteen divisions, and thirty-six other division commanders are en route to the Imperial City for support, but they've been intercepted by mobs. Yan Xun's army is now attacking Zijin Gate. General Song Sen is holding them off, but with less than 3,000 imperial defenders left, they won't last long!"
The news was like a thunderbolt, striking everyone in the hall. Many of the older veterans were visibly shaken, their faces white with fear, their bodies weak. They stared at the ground, and a sense of impending doom hung over the room like a shadow.
Was this the day everything would fall apart?
Xia Huang slowly closed his eyes. In that moment, he was forced to admit that General Bali and Wei Shu Ye's plan to assassinate Yan Xun had completely failed. They had deployed 1,000 elite soldiers to eliminate a man they believed to be a caged bird, powerless and without allies. Yet Yan Xun had not only survived but used the turmoil in the city to reclaim control over the southwestern township and strike back. What had they overlooked in these eight long years?
The old Xia Emperor sighed deeply, his voice filled with sorrow. "The original Yan Schicheng of the world... how could I forget? He is your son!"
Throughout the Great Dynasties and the entire land of Ximeng, no one ever imagined that Xia Huang, Zhao Zhengde, would allow Yanbei's son, who had been imprisoned for eight years, to return to Yanbei. Nor did anyone believe that Yanbei's son would ever marry into the imperial family. Everyone assumed that Yan Xun, who had dared to defy the imperial court in the public square, would meet a tragic end, concocting futile escape plans. They imagined him fleeing like a hunted dog, pursued by the armies of the Great Xia. He would take on various disguises, hiding his identity, desperately trying to evade capture. Eventually, they thought, he would die an ignoble death, with no chance to wreak havoc, and his bones would be lost to the dust.
To their eyes, Yan Xun, who had been trapped in the capital for years, had no more than that in him. How much power could one retain after eight years under the suffocating watch of the Xia Dynasty?
But no one could have predicted the precision and ferocity of Yan Xun's return strike. The man who appeared humble and hesitant day after day turned out to be a thunderbolt waiting to strike. He orchestrated bloodshed, incited rebellion, assassinated key figures, and set the emperor's capital ablaze in chaos. He showed no hesitation, no scruples, and no mercy, plunging straight into the heart of the empire with ruthless determination.
Yan Xun was indeed the son of the Lion King of Yanbei, Yan Schicheng! Deep in his heart, he harbored unmatched patience, a relentless will, and the audacity to become the most dangerous man in the world.
"Report!"
The sharp sound of a report echoed through the hall, followed by a resounding "bang." Cui Shih-yao, unable to bear the shock, collapsed to the floor unconscious.
"Panic! Shouts! What's happening? Has Yan Xun struck?" came the frantic voices.
The soldier, startled by the outburst, quickly replied, "No, Your Highness, not yet."
"Then why the panic?" Zhao Che demanded.
"Your Majesty," the soldier continued, "we must leave immediately. The fire is spreading!"
That night, the entire capital of Real City turned into scorched earth, with screams of agony piercing the night air. Real City had become a living hell.
"Master! We've been searching everywhere for you!" cried a servant, frantically rushing toward Zhuge Yue.
Zhu Cheng, a loyal retainer, urgently reported, "The old master ordered us to find you, but it took too long. The palace is on fire!"
Zhuge Yue frowned deeply, his voice cold. "Zhu Cheng, what's happening outside?"
"Yan Shi Zi has struck! The southwestern township's forces have stormed the imperial gates. The city is in chaos! The various divisions have been paralyzed, and there's been no communication. It's total disorder!"
Zhuge Yue's face darkened with a steely resolve. "No more delays. I'm returning home to mobilize the Zhuge army and take revenge."
"Master," Zhu Cheng hesitated, "the old master has ordered you not to act rashly. He hasn't received a response from the elders yet, and…"
"I've heard enough!" Zhuge Yue's face was flushed with fury, his eyes ablaze. "What is my father thinking? At a time like this, are we still focused on internal struggles? I warned them that General Bali wouldn't be able to kill Yan Xun!"
Zhu Cheng looked increasingly alarmed. "The master said the Elder Shrine would handle it, and that this matter doesn't concern you. You shouldn't interfere."
"The Elder Shrine?" Zhuge Yue spat the words out angrily. "What do they know? They're too busy with infighting, gathering wealth, and seeking personal benefits! They care more about their own gains than about the survival of the country! If the Xia Empire falls, where will the Zhuge family go? Zhu Cheng, get out of my way!"
"Master," Zhu Cheng said, his face pale, his voice pleading, "why are you doing this? None of the other nobles are deploying their forces. What will people think of the Zhuge family if we act first?"
"I control what they think!" Zhuge Yue said, frowning and sneering. "If the empire falls but the Zhuge family survives, where would we go? If the Xia Dynasty collapses, what remains for the Zhuge family? I'm not here for the Zhao royal family—I'm here for the Real City of Manchu, for the millions of people, for the future of Xia!"
"Is it really that serious?" Zhu Cheng asked skeptically. "The master said the walls of the Imperial City are strong enough to withstand an assault by a hundred thousand troops for three consecutive days. The chaos outside will die down within an hour, and once the twelve divisions arrive, Yan Xun's people will be crushed. It's just a small rebellion."
"A small rebellion?" Zhuge Yue was stunned for a moment, then burst into laughter. "You think Yan Xun is a fool? That he'll wait for the imperial army to rescue him? Once he escapes, who will stop him? The empire is in chaos, and no one will be able to pursue him. Do you understand the consequences of letting such a dangerous and vengeful man return to Yanbei? He's ten thousand times more dangerous than anyone in Yancheng. A small rebellion? This is a storm powerful enough to destroy the entire empire! These idiots are walking straight to their deaths!"
"Master!"
"Get out of my way!"
"Bang!" A sudden strike hit Zhuge Yue on the head, causing him to frown as he lost consciousness.
"I'm sorry, Master," Zhu Cheng said, shaking his head slowly. "But this is what your father ordered. You're right about many things, but we are part of the noble clans, and noble clans follow their own rules. All these years, you still haven't been able to forget about Yan Xun, have you?"
Chu Qiao had lived in the imperial capital for eight years, but she had never seen anything like this.
The city was burning. Looting was rampant, people wept openly, and the streets were filled with madness. Screams and abuse echoed everywhere as fires roared and the clash of steel reverberated through the night. Ordinary people—those once thought of as good, moral, or benevolent—now became beasts, taking full advantage of the chaos.
Thugs pried open shop doors, killing anyone who tried to resist. A shopkeeper begged for mercy but was cut down along with his son, who had rushed to defend him. The mob laughed maniacally as they left the shop soaked in blood, moving on to their next target. Some were motivated by greed, seizing everything they could carry, while others simply destroyed for the sake of it, smashing and burning anything left behind.
Bodies littered the streets, dirty and broken. Flames crackled, consuming everything in their path.
A drunken man staggered down the street, a bottle in one hand and a knife in the other, crying out, "Doomsday! It's the end of the world!"
The air in the capital city was thick with desperation and madness. The stench of death filled the Imperial City.
This was the chaos Yan Xun had envisioned. The Twelfth Division and the Nineteen Division, the empire's so-called heaven-sent protectors, were nowhere to be seen.
Chu Qiao felt a cold chill seize her body, spreading through her limbs. She hadn't anticipated that their plan to set fires and create chaos would lead to such devastating consequences. Too many had gone mad, too many had died, and too many innocent lives had been caught up in the carnage. Desperation reigned supreme, as provocations fueled by thugs celebrating the end of order threw the entire city into hell. The Imperial City was now a smoldering wasteland, incinerated by fire and consumed by chaos.
On the night of May 20th, after years of mounting pressure, the people of Real City finally collapsed.
"Girl!"
A rider on a fast horse galloped toward her. The people on the streets scattered in panic as the rider approached, his body drenched in blood. His clothes were so stained that their original color was impossible to discern. "The world is falling! Head west, come with me!"
Chu Qiao nodded silently, shaking off her chaotic thoughts, and followed the rider, A'Jing, as they moved through the city.
The cries of terror continued behind them, stretching far into the distance.
As they turned toward Ziwei Square, the Iron Eagle flag of Yanbei fluttered under the blood-red night sky. Veterans stood on the street in front of the square, their sharp blades glinting ominously. A man in a black robe sat atop a horse, his posture proud and unyielding. His face was pale like jade, but his eyes were bright like stars, handsome and elegant. He stood like a sword drawn from its scabbard, emanating a powerful and murderous aura.
Chu Qiao froze in place, unable to move for a long moment, as if she didn't recognize the figure before her. A'Jing, standing behind her, noticed her hesitation and asked, "Girl, why aren't you moving?"
"Oh… nothing," Chu Qiao muttered, her voice barely audible amidst the night's chaos.
However, the man, standing a hundred paces away, suddenly frowned. His sharp gaze found her instantly, like a sword piercing the night. His grim expression softened as frost melted from his features, and Yan Xun smiled, galloping toward her. "A'Chu!"
In eight years, Chu Qiao had never seen him smile like that. She exhaled slowly, all of her chaotic thoughts fading away. Forget it. Even if they had to wade through rivers of blood and walk over corpses, she would stay by his side. Nothing else mattered—not the destruction, the carnage, or the sea of death. As long as he was safe, as long as they could still smile together, that was enough.
Before the girl could respond, she smiled brightly.
Just then, the crisp sound of horses' hooves approached from the direction of the Purple Gate. Chu Qiao and Yan Xun both looked up, surprised. At this hour, who would be leaving the palace?
"Yan Xun!" A figure in a red robe jumped from his horse, rushing forward with a panicked expression. "Don't do this! Princess Chun'er didn't mean to defy you! She's not forcing you—please don't leave! It's my fault, Yan Xun—it's Chun'er's fault!"
Yan Xun frowned and looked toward Chu Qiao, confused. Chu Qiao's heart sank. She turned to see Zhao Chun'er, her hair disheveled and her face pale. Chu Qiao's earlier disdain for the princess dissolved as pity washed over her. The poor girl still didn't understand what was happening.
"Yan Xun," Zhao Chun'er sobbed, falling weakly to the ground. She covered her face with her hands, tears falling onto her bright red dress. "Don't do this…"
Yan Xun remained cold, his patience wearing thin.
"Yan Xun! You madman! How could you rebel like this?" Another rider appeared—Zhao Song, clad in green. His expression was one of fury as he rode toward them. He spotted Zhao Chun'er and bellowed, "Chun'er! You're still with him?"
Zhao Chun'er, terrified, scrambled to her feet and turned to face her brother. Though frightened, she did something that shocked everyone present—she raised her arms and stood in front of Yan Xun, shielding him from her brother's men. She shook her head stubbornly. "Thirteenth Brother, no. He doesn't want to marry me. He's only protesting to Father…"
"Fool!" Zhao Song shouted in fury. "He's after military power! Can't you see that?"
Zhao Chun'er's face went even paler as she whispered, "Military power…?"
"Don't believe me? Ask him yourself!"
Zhao Chun'er slowly lowered her arms and turned toward Yan Xun, her eyes wide with disbelief. She whispered, her voice trembling, "You… you're not rebelling, are you? You just want to talk to Father, right?"
The cold wind howled, and the stench of smoke and blood filled the air. Zhao Chun'er's thin, fragile figure trembled as she stared at Yan Xun, her face drained of color, her eyes searching for any sign of hope.
Yan Xun's brow furrowed slightly in impatience. Finally, he replied coldly, "This rebellion has been in the making for years. It has nothing to do with you. I never wanted to marry you."
The wind whipped through the ancient capital, now reduced to ruins. Screams echoed across the city. On May 20th, the drama of the Great Alliance had only just begun.
AC Afterthought
This chapter is a vivid depiction of a royal confrontation, showcasing the conflict between duty and personal desire in an imperial setting. Zhao Chun'er's defiance against an arranged marriage reveals the deep emotional strain placed on members of the royal family, especially women, whose lives are often governed by political alliances. The contrast between her desperation and the cold, unrelenting attitude of her father highlights the rigid nature of imperial duty. The tension is palpable, with familial bonds at stake, and it serves as a compelling introduction to the larger themes of power, authority, and individual agency. This moment also sets the stage for future conflict, as Zhao Chun'er's rebellion may have far-reaching consequences.
This chapter showcases a tense and dynamic interaction between Chu Qiao and Zhuge Yue. It highlights their mutual hostility, yet also hints at an underlying connection that transcends simple enmity. Chu Qiao, sharp and quick-witted, stands in stark contrast to Zhuge Yue's cool, calculating demeanor. Their brief but fierce skirmish underlines the tension in their relationship, and it's clear that there's more beneath the surface.
The introduction of Li Ce, with his lighthearted yet slightly disruptive presence, adds a moment of levity, but his appearance also serves as a reminder of the broader social structure these characters are navigating. While Zhuge Yue and Chu Qiao spar in private, the public perception of their actions looms large, especially for someone of Zhuge Yue's status.
The chapter subtly builds on the tension between personal freedom and societal expectations, particularly in the way Chu Qiao challenges Zhuge Yue's authority and status. It also deepens the intrigue between the characters, setting up further conflicts and potential alliances.
In this chapter, the tension escalates significantly, bringing the stakes to a boiling point. Chu Qiao's ruthlessness in executing her mission is juxtaposed with the initial, almost light-hearted banter with Li Ce. This contrast highlights her dual nature: a quick-witted and playful individual, yet capable of cold and calculated violence when the situation demands it.
Her lethal efficiency during the assassination scenes emphasizes how far she's willing to go for her cause. The brutality of her actions—described in stark, simple terms—underscores the pragmatism of her character. For her, murder is not an emotional act but a necessary step in achieving her goals.
This chapter also sets the stage for a larger, city-wide upheaval. The political and military machinations that Chu Qiao and her group have orchestrated culminate in the slow unraveling of the empire's defenses, highlighting the vulnerability of even the mightiest powers when their foundations are shaken from within. There's a sense of inevitability here: the fall of the Imperial City feels less like a sudden collapse and more like a carefully orchestrated descent into chaos.
The chapter's dark and stealthy atmosphere, with its emphasis on shadows, secrecy, and sudden violence, creates a palpable tension. It's a foreboding glimpse of the larger conflict that is about to erupt.
This chapter continues to build upon the intense tension between Chu Qiao and Zhuge Yue. Their dynamic is one of deep conflict, fueled by opposing loyalties and simmering personal enmity. The fierce exchange of blows between them mirrors their inner struggles: Chu Qiao, committed to rebellion and the destruction of the old order, and Zhuge Yue, desperately clinging to his role within the existing power structure.
Zhuge Yue's disdain for Yan Xun's rebellion highlights his belief in the strength of the empire, while Chu Qiao's cutting words expose the cracks in his self-righteous exterior. The dialogue here is sharp and biting, each word laced with personal jabs and political commentary. It also serves as a deeper exploration of Zhuge Yue's character: his pride, his inner conflict, and the realization that he is bound by a system he may not fully believe in.
The introduction of palace guards further escalates the danger, forcing Chu Qiao and Zhuge Yue into an uneasy truce as they evade capture. The chapter emphasizes the blurred lines between enemy and ally in times of political upheaval, and the personal stakes are rising for both characters.
The chapter is filled with a palpable sense of urgency, as both the physical fight and the larger rebellion loom over the characters' fates. It effectively heightens the drama while deepening the complex relationship between Chu Qiao and Zhuge Yue.
This chapter amplifies the tension as the stakes rise higher for both Chu Qiao and Zhuge Yue. Their confrontational exchange captures the core of their relationship—deeply antagonistic, yet with a complicated history that adds layers to their interaction. Chu Qiao's sharp words reveal the depth of her resentment toward Zhuge Yue, but at the same time, she acknowledges that he spared her life once. This makes her decision not to kill him more meaningful, although it's clear she won't show such mercy again.
The escalating danger, from their personal confrontation to the sudden fire in the palace, keeps the pacing intense. Chu Qiao's unshakable confidence in her ability to escape, and her faith in Yan Xun, contrasts sharply with Zhuge Yue's more cynical outlook. The chapter also paints a vivid picture of Chu Qiao as a powerful figure, determined and capable of shaping her own fate. Her confidence, which visibly affects Zhuge Yue, adds emotional depth to their rivalry.
The backdrop of the palace fire introduces an additional layer of chaos, setting the stage for even larger confrontations to come. As the situation in the palace unravels, it's clear that the rebellion is reaching a critical point.
This chapter takes the tension to new heights, with chaos erupting both within the palace and across the capital. The scope of the rebellion is revealed, and the empire's command structure crumbles in real-time as the assassination of key military figures leaves the imperial forces vulnerable. The overwhelming sense of impending disaster pervades the narrative, as Yan Xun's rebellion is shown to be much more than a simple uprising—it's a carefully orchestrated coup.
Xia Huang's gradual realization of his failure adds a somber note, and the chapter effectively captures the sense of inevitability that comes with the collapse of long-standing power structures. The juxtaposition of personal fear among the officials with the larger political turmoil adds to the dramatic tension.
The riot scenes paint a vivid picture of social unrest, where the breakdown of order allows ordinary people to participate in the chaos, either out of desperation or greed. This chaotic background further heightens the sense of the empire unraveling from within.
The sense of urgency, the palpable fear, and the looming sense of defeat make this chapter a powerful turning point in the story.
This chapter sheds light on the complexity of Zhuge Yue's internal struggles. The focus shifts to his frustration with the politics of the empire, particularly the priorities of the Elder Shrine and his own family. The Zhuge family's reluctance to act despite the chaos outside speaks to the power struggles within the empire—an empire too consumed with its own conflicts to recognize the larger threat posed by Yan Xun.
Yan Xun's transformation from a seemingly broken captive into a powerful rebel leader shows his strategic brilliance and ruthless efficiency. The portrayal of Yan Xun as the son of Yan Schicheng emphasizes his legacy and his ability to turn the tables on his enemies when they least expect it. His return to power is framed as both inevitable and shocking.
Zhuge Yue's anger at his family's hesitation underscores his own sense of responsibility and his growing disillusionment with the political elite. His internal conflict and decision to act independently reflect his determination to break free from the constraints imposed by his family and the Elder Shrine. His relationship with Yan Xun adds layers to his character, showing that even though they are on opposite sides of the rebellion, there is a grudging respect and awareness of each other's power.
This chapter raises the stakes as the empire teeters on the edge of collapse, with rebellion and betrayal all around. Zhuge Yue's decision to act, despite his family's orders, sets him apart from the other nobles and highlights his growing role in the unfolding drama.
This chapter marks a climactic moment, where the rebellion escalates into full-scale chaos. Yan Xun's unwavering determination contrasts sharply with Zhao Chun'er's naivety, highlighting the tragic collision of personal emotions with political ambition. Yan Xun's dismissive attitude toward the princess's feelings serves as a brutal reminder of the cold realities of war and power, where personal desires are crushed beneath the weight of larger goals.
The vivid descriptions of the capital burning and descending into anarchy add to the tension, showcasing how quickly order can fall apart. Chu Qiao's internal conflict deepens as she realizes the true cost of their rebellion, but her loyalty to Yan Xun keeps her committed, even as the chaos spirals out of control.
Zhao Chun'er's actions in defending Yan Xun, despite everything, speak to her innocence and deep-rooted love for him, even as it becomes clear that her feelings are unreciprocated. The chapter ends on a note of impending disaster, with the Great Alliance just beginning, and the fates of all the characters hanging in the balance.