PART 6. MORE REVELATION

Chapter 51

Fighting Beauties

Like in a trance of white snow, a woman was walking through the endless cold and fierce snowstorm.

The heavy snow was falling, and her eyes hurt from the wind. Her skin was bruised, but her determination to reach her destination lingered.

The woman saw a drop of blood gradually spreading on the white snow. Then she realized she was in a bloodbath field. Aware of it now, she spread her gaze and saw many dead bodies—some with their necks slashed by sharp blades, others struck by arrows.

Suddenly, the girl began breathing heavily and became conscious. She ran, shouting into the distance, repeatedly crying: "Yuwen Yue!" until her voice dried up like a desert.

Like an upside-down world, she saw blocks of ice in the middle of the bloodbath field. Still distant from where she stood, she saw a man dressed in white, lying on the snow. An arrow was lodged in the left side of his chest.

Tears wouldn't stop falling when she saw the man breathing heavily. Finally, he slid down from the slab of ice.

She tried to run toward him, but no matter how hard she tried, her feet were stuck in the cold snow. All she could do was watch as the man sank into the frozen lake. She strained to see his face, but for some reason, it remained bleak.

Her tears didn't stop until she screamed in a bitter voice: "This isn't happening!" Her words echoed until she became voiceless. The place exploded in white light, and the picturesque moment faded away.

On some tiring nights, she experienced nightmares, and it all went back to that time when the man drowned in the frozen lake. No matter how hard she tried to see who the man was, Chu Qiao was always stuck, and suddenly the dream would fade into a nightmare.

Chu Qiao suddenly opened her eyes, gasping for air. She looked around the small room and found everything in order, including the man beside her, who was sleeping peacefully. Chu Qiao felt at ease looking at Yuwen Yue's face. Her husband's handsome features made her wish she could freeze that moment in time and gaze at him forever.

After half an hour of staring at her husband's face, she drifted back to sleep.

Yuwen Yue woke up first. Ever since they got married, his sleep had improved. There hadn't been days of rest this good until now.

As cold as he seemed, he looked at the beauty sleeping in his arms and felt content.

Though familiar with this feeling, he suddenly shut it off and became composed. Yuwen Yue put on his cotton robe, went to the kitchen, gathered some wood, and started a fire to boil water for tea.

He didn't need to work, but for some reason, he felt he had to continue this facade until he knew the truth. He stepped outside the back of his lodge, ensuring no one was watching or listening. He whistled, and a bird from the forest flew to his shoulder. Yuwen Yue glanced at the sunlight filtering through the tall pine trees and took a deep breath of the fresh morning air.

Chu Qiao was startled by the whistle and the noise of the bird. She woke up and noticed her husband wasn't beside her as usual. Every day, Yuwen Yue woke up first and left a note for her on the dining table.

She heard footsteps approaching and pretended to be asleep, half-opening her eyes to see what her husband was doing. Yuwen Yue walked to a nearby cabinet, took his clothes, and smelled them. "Good smell," he remarked.

Chu Qiao secretly felt happy that her husband appreciated her laundry work and continued to pretend she was asleep. Yuwen Yue took his clothes and went to bathe outside.

Chu Qiao, feeling mischievous, thought about wanting her husband to see her body and whispered to herself, "What if I make the first move?" Giggling at the thought, she added, "I have a plan."

Yuwen Yue enjoyed a cold shower in the summer morning. Afterward, he changed into fresh clothes while Chu Qiao continued to fake its sleep. Yuwen Yue returned to the room, his attention drawn to his wife's small feet and jade-like skin.

He wondered, "Did she sleep in her innerwear?" His mind filled with erotic thoughts as he stared, curious about what lay beneath.

Feeling more attracted to her, Yuwen Yue became reluctant to leave for work. His thoughts grew more intense as Chu Qiao shifted, exposing her clear skin and the small red tattoo on her back.

Yuwen Yue's gaze lingered, but he wrestled with himself, his manhood telling him to touch her, while his mind advised against it.

He snapped out of it and sat at the table to write his usual note.

He wrote to his wife: "Wifey, your hot tea is ready. You know where I am. Please do not expose your back, especially when you are asleep. – Ra Yue"

Yuwen Yue left the note on the dining table and went out.

Yuwen Yue had always cherished writing letters as a means of connecting with the outside world. This practice rekindled memories of a special relationship he had with Princess Xiao Yu of Liang, Skyshadow martial arts Master, and Leader of the Liang's Elite spies network, Sister of Xiao Ce and now Wife of Yan Xun, the Queen of Yanbei bond forged during their youthful years. Their correspondences was a cherished tradition, reminiscent of modern penpals, with Xiao Yu effortlessly recognizing his distinctive penmanship.

Despite being archenemies, Yuwen Yue and Xiao Yu's relationship blossomed through their letters. Both held significant titles and harbored secrets that could sway thrones, yet their mutual respect and affection grew stronger with each exchange. Xiao Yu, in particular, found herself deeply in love with Yuwen Yue, a sentiment she came to accept with time. But Yuwen Yue considers her only a friend and continued being true until today.

Her assistant, Tao Ye, was well aware of this hidden friendship with a hint of one-sided love for Xiao Yu. Tao Ye, a skilled spy courier, managed the delicate task of delivering Xiao Yu's responses to the Yuwen Household while deftly evading the numerous traps set by their adversaries. Her role was crucial in maintaining the secrecy of their correspondence and protecting her own life in the process.

Chu Qiao now knew this was her husband's routine every morning. She waited until he left, then tiptoed to the dining table. Her eyes widened, and goosebumps spread over her skin as she read the note.

Feeling a sudden warmth, she realized how much her husband was controlling himself. It had never felt sweeter, knowing their bodies hadn't been fully united yet, which made her desire grow even stronger.

She checked the date and thought it wasn't an auspicious day yet. She kissed the letter, placed it against her chest, and went happily about her household chores.

Chu Qiao stepped outside to dry her laundry when she noticed the Cangwu bird hovering near their lodge again. She realized the bird was also a resident of their home. "Come here, I'll give you some food," she said.

Chu Qiao put down her laundry basket, fetched some rice, and scattered it on the ground.

The bird did not go to eat, but Chu Qiao was surprised to hear the bird speak: "Xinger, Xinger, Xinger…" three times.

Chu Qiao felt the bird was doing it on purpose. She repeated, "Xinger? What is this?" But the bird just flew by to the nearby trees and never ate the grain on the ground.

She thought, "Ah, what a foolish bird! Do you not want some grains from the heavens? Fine!"

Chu Qiao felt rejected by the bird, taking it personally, but then she smiled again and uttered, "Xinger?!"

She was deep in thought and suddenly wondered:Did the bird just call me Xinger?Chu Qiao thought that was a crazy and foolish thing to believe, so she dismissed the thought and continued her chores.

Suddenly, the summer ground turned to dust as she began practicing her martial arts.

The sounds of her movements filled the air as she threw star darts at a nearby tree. She leapt into the air to catch them swiftly, finishing with a high leap before landing on the ground, bowing her head, and breathing deeply.

After her intense martial arts session, she cooled down and meditated, sharpening her senses tenfold.

All of a sudden, a woman dressed in a black ninja suit threw three needles aimed at her head. Chu Qiao, with her eyes closed and her power heightened, defied gravity.

The needles stopped, suspended in midair. Time froze for a moment. Not a single hair on her head was touched. Suddenly, the three needles dropped to the ground. Chu Qiao opened her eyes to see who the intruder was, but it was too late—the intruder's presence had vanished.

Slightly worried, she sensed that the unknown attacker had discovered her and would return for another strike. She picked up the three needles.

Chu Qiao recognized that they were not poisoned but resembled the needles that once poisoned Zhong Yu.

"This is not Viper," she thought. Chu Qiao knew that Viper wouldn't waste any time asking her to return to the Chu Jing Kingdom.

Chu Qiao narrowed her eyes, recalling the mysterious woman in a black ninja suit who ambushed them on their way to Xuili Mountain. Zhong Yu had interrupted what was supposed to be their first encounter.

Chu Qiao remembered the woman's feminine tone and her words: "I'm not here to kill you, but just to see your face." Chu Qiao was still puzzled by this unknown entity following her, as the figure hadn't bothered her again until today.

It was quite late in the afternoon, and the summer sunset had just arrived, casting twilight over the cold forest.

Her husband came home while she prepared his clothes for him to change. She asked, "Did you check on the kids? How are they doing with Master Zuo?"

In his usual cold tone, Yuwen Yue replied, "Master Zuo enrolled them at Liang's Martial Arts Temple on Kong Sang Mountain, where they will be trained mentally and physically to defend themselves."

Chu Qiao was surprised and said, "Really? Is it safe there?"

Yuwen Yue answered, "I believe so. Some of their best are absorbed by the palace and become the crown prince's envoys."

Chu Qiao replied, "Wow, what a great idea and bright future ahead," then sighed.

Yuwen Yue noticed her sigh and asked, "Are you sad that you won't see them as often?"

Chu Qiao said, "No, they're in good hands now. With the temple masters, they'll be able to discover their strengths and master their weaknesses as they grow… but I… I just miss those three kids and hope to see them again one day."

Yuwen Yue sensed his wife's longing and offered a solution. "We can visit them."

Chu Qiao's face lit up as she said, "Oh husband, thank you in advance! When?"

"It's restricted to visit them at the moment, so maybe…" Yuwen Yue looked up, thinking for a moment before replying honestly, "Maybe in a few months."

Chu Qiao shook her head and said, "Okay... Do I have any choice?"

"You do," Yuwen Yue replied.

"How about this? You cook for them, and we'll travel to Kong Sang Mountain to deliver the food to the kids," Yuwen Yue suggested, waiting for Chu Qiao's approval, hoping to see her happy cheeks agree.

Chu Qiao looked into her husband's eyes, as if silently telling him something, wanting him to decipher her thoughts.

Yuwen Yue read her expression and said, "I know what you're thinking. It won't happen again…" He paused and added, "Hopefully."

Chu Qiao thought of the dangers that lay ahead. Just like what happened at the jewelry shop, if they traveled and faced unforeseen threats, she might not be able to control her defensive instincts, potentially exposing her powers and her superb gongfu martial arts, which had already leaked to her cold-hearted husband.

The last time she did, Yuwen Yue closed the story by telling her, "The walls have ears. You don't have to explain if you don't want to pass this through illegal channels."

Chu Qiao suddenly remembered those words vividly as they echoed in her ears. She thought she might have heard them somewhere before. And of course, there was the engagement ring. She admired how pretty it looked on her hand, and Yuwen Yue was gazing at it too.

Chu Qiao teased, "You're looking at my ring—are you going to regret having to pay for it for a lifetime?"

Yuwen Yue replied, "No, I was just remembering how that ring came to be on your little fingers again."

Yuwen Yue looked at her with the desire to kiss her. Unable to keep his self-control, he said, "Tell me you are her…"

Yuwen Yue's voice was full of longing and sadness. The cold air between them grew hot as Yuwen Yue moved closer, placing his hands gently on her waist and locking eyes with her.

Chu Qiao's eyes questioned him, but she was speechless. She suddenly felt goosebumps as Yuwen Yue's hands rested on her waist, and she gently asked, "Who? Xinger?"

Yuwen Yue blinked at her when he heard the name, but no words came.

Chu Qiao thought she was foolish for uttering the bird's name in front of her husband, who was gazing intensely into her eyes. She felt like she might melt from the heat of the moment.

Breaking the silence, Yuwen Yue coldly asked, "Xinger? Where did you hear that name?" His eyes questioned hers, but Chu Qiao didn't respond. Yuwen Yue turned away, walking back to sit at the dining table.

Chu Qiao was left in suspense, unsure of what to tell her husband. Should she tell him about the talking bird perched on their roof? What if her husband killed the bird? Would he think she was crazy?

Yuwen Yue interrupted Chu Qiao's deep thoughts, asking, "Hey! Did you happen to hear or even meet a talking bird?"

Chu Qiao couldn't believe what she was hearing, but she admitted, "Yes." She thought to herself,Oh, my gorgeous husband knows about the talking bird on our roof.She waited for Yuwen Yue to say more about the bird.

Yuwen Yue thought to himself,If she's Xinger, she would have recognized the bird immediately. She would know who I am, and the past would unravel like a book. But instead, she's talking about a bird…Yuwen Yue pondered.If she were Xinger, she would know.

But it seemed Yuwen Yue was with a woman who didn't know about the bird or who Xinger was to him. He began to wonder if his wife was an imposter, even though he strongly believed she was the real Xinger. Why didn't she recognize him?

Yuwen Yue didn't know how long he could maintain this facade, but he planned to do nothing until he could prove whether Chu Qiao was the real Xinger or just an imposter. His extended vacation leave couldn't last forever, and with an empire to rule, he needed to know before stepping back onto his Qinghai throne.

Downplaying the moment, Yuwen Yue said lightly, "Oh, the talking bird! Wifey, you don't mind if this little pet on our roof keeps us company, do you?"

Suddenly, the bird flew to the open window and chirped the name again: "Xinger."

Yuwen Yue turned around, frowning and glaring coldly at the bird. Startled, the bird flew away. Chu Qiao laughed, "Ha ha ha! What have you done? You scared the bird!"

Yuwen Yue looked at her and said, "That bird is obsessed with Xinger."

Chu Qiao casually replied, "Maybe the bird's original owner was obsessed with Xinger. You know, birds never forget."

Yuwen Yue gave her a helpless, pleading look. Chu Qiao noticed and asked, "What did I say?"

Yuwen Yue replied, "Maybe the owner is the one obsessed with Xinger."

Chu Qiao laughed again, "Poor bird, poor owner."

Yuwen Yue decided to reveal more and said gently, "What if I told you I'm the owner?"

Chu Qiao looked at him seriously and asked, "Are you serious?"

Their eyes locked in a silent conversation, as if they were begging each other to reveal the truth.

Yuwen Yue hesitated and finally said, "No, I'm not." But the truth was, he was dying to tell her he was the owner, to end the day by kissing her and hearing her admit she was Xinger.

Chu Qiao laughed out loud, "Why do I have this instinct to believe you are the owner? Why else would the bird camp on our roof?"

Yuwen Yue, at a loss for words, replied in a gentle tone, "It's not mine until my crazy, foolish wife tells the story of a talking bird."

Chu Qiao ignored his comment, laughing heartily at her cold and mysterious husband. She knew he was clever and wouldn't admit anything easily, even about a talking bird.

After dinner, Yuwen Yue went outside to look at the summer moon shining behind the trees. Chu Qiao brought him a cup of cold tea, and Yuwen Yue looked at her before taking a sip.

Chu Qiao sat down beside him, sipping her tea as they enjoyed the cool summer air together, quietly soaking in the peaceful night until they grew tired and returned to their warm Kang bed.

As Chu Qiao was about to close her eyes, thoughts of the talking bird and Xinger stirred in her mind. She couldn't help but wonder,If Xinger is real, who is she to my husband?

That night, they both slept soundly until Chu Qiao, feeling like she was in a dream, woke up again. This time, it felt real.

She sensed an intruder had entered their home. Moving quietly, she lit another stick of plum incense and placed it in the burner to ensure her husband wouldn't wake while she secured the house from an imminent attack.

Chu Qiao extinguished the tea candle, relying on the light of the summer moon, which flickered on and off as clouds passed overhead, revealing shadows surrounding the lodge.

She was fearless, but she feared her husband discovering who she truly was.

In this new life, she wanted her marriage to work, but her past as the General of the Xuili Army, the Wei State crown princess (escaped though she may be), and the secret princess of a distant kingdom followed her like a shadow. She didn't want this night to become more complicated.

"There are only two shadows—this won't take much effort," she thought confidently as she prepared to strike the first.

Chu Qiao engaged the first shadow, and they danced in combat through martial arts. She observed the black-clad ninja's moves—Skyshadow Sleeve martial arts, a technique foreign to her Chu Jing Kingdom.

Her training allowed her to counter these attacks. She recalled learning this skill from none other than the old woman, the Skyshadow gatekeeper.

The memories of Chu Jing grounds echoed in her ears, and she could still hear the drums.

The second black ninja made a mistake, and Chu Qiao took advantage of it, wounding her shoulder. The ninja's suit fell to the ground, revealing her body and face. Chu Qiao looked at the face—she resembled her.

The other ninja, practicing Skyshadow martial arts, drew a belt sword and revealed herself by removing her black mask.

Chu Qiao momentarily froze, startled by their identities.

Chu Qiao knew who it was. She finally understood but was still somewhat confused by her doppelgänger.

Earlier, she had been using her cold daggers, but now she felt the need to wield her Canhong sword. As she recognized the two women in front of her, she slowly walked back inside the lodge.

She calmly went to check on Yuwen Yue, who was sleeping soundly, undisturbed by the commotion. Not a single noise had woken him up. She thought to herself,Why am I so good at hiding, just to maintain the peace in this marriage?

Quietly, she left the room to defend the man of the house. Chu Qiao spotted the bird outside, and as if the bird could understand, she gave it a silent gesture. The bird understood and didn't move.

Chu Qiao resumed the confrontation and found only one person outside, calmly waiting for her. She greeted her with a sharp tone: "Your Highness, Queen of Yanbei, Xiao Yu, where is your puppet crown princess of Wei?"

Xiao Yu, standing with a calm posture, did not notice the bird. She didn't strike and kept her composure despite the harshness of Chu Qiao's greeting. "I believe she escaped and married a peddler to hide her identity. My brother was too cunning not to detect that I was also involved in his plan, but we had different purposes," Xiao Yu said.

Chu Qiao's ears rang with Xiao Yu's words. She couldn't believe what she was hearing.This ex-princess, now Queen of Yanbei, is trying to wreck my marriage,she thought.

She rebutted, mocking Xiao Yu: "Look at you, a Queen of Yanbei by chance, still following the supposed Queen of Yanbei..." Chu Qiao paused, watching for Xiao Yu's reaction.

Xiao Yu remained calm, though clearly hurt inside. She didn't need Yan Xun to confirm her suspicions, but hearing it now proved her assumptions right—the night she had inserted the needle into Yan Xun's neck was the night they were together.

Chu Qiao's words cut like a double-edged sword into Xiao Yu's heart. Xiao Yu replied, "You don't deserve him, so I took him. That night, you were considered a traitor to Yanbei for trying to kill its King."

Chu Qiao retorted, "Who deserves who? Neither you nor I are worthy of him. So, if I'm a traitor to Yanbei, what does that make you? A hero? Besides, I'm a happily married woman now and don't follow people around because of my insecurities."

Xiao Yu, still calm but no longer able to contain her anger, raised her belt sword and attacked Chu Qiao. Chu Qiao countered with her Canhong sword, and the clash of swords rang through the air. They fought a useless battle as the bird watched silently from a distance, making no attempt to wake its master, who was still sleeping peacefully.

Xiao Yu had no knowledge of Yuwen Yue's presence or his whereabouts. The Queen of Yanbei was only interested in tracking Chu Qiao, who had long been her target. She had silently watched Chu Qiao meet her brother, Xiao Ce, but had never considered where Chu Qiao was staying in the old Xue Fu streets of Liang.

During that time, Xiao Yu had been too preoccupied with her new responsibilities as Queen of Yanbei, confined within the four walls of Yan Palace. She no longer had time to roam or spy as she once did—until tonight.

Chu Qiao, careful with her movements, caught various objects to prevent making noise and waking the "Lion King" from his slumber. But Xiao Yu fed her envy and resentment, continuing her attacks on Chu Qiao.

Chu Qiao, growing tired of catching things and fighting, finally stopped and said, "You already have the position and control over the King of Yanbei. I don't understand why you're still doing this in the middle of the night."

Xiao Yu, now calm again, replied in a gentle tone, "It's too easy if I just say it plainly to your face." Preparing to leave, she added, "You won't have peace until I get what I want."

With that, she disappeared into the dark forest, leaving Chu Qiao alone to pick up the scattered items and cover up the mess from their fight.

The morning came, and everything returned to normal.

Yuwen Yue woke up early while Chu Qiao was still sleeping. He was tempted to touch her back, but then he noticed something on the floor.

Chapter 52

Flip of cards

Yuwen Yue froze when he saw the Canhong sword. In that moment, he suddenly realized and confirmed that she was the real Chu Qiao. However, there was one more test his wife had to pass before he could fully believe she was indeed Chu Qiao and restore order to everything.

Filled with happiness, Yuwen Yue picked up the Canhong sword from the floor and placed it aside. He decided not to go to work that day and instead become a carpenter, crafting a beautiful wall-mounted sword holder.

While Chu Qiao was still asleep, Yuwen Yue gazed at her face, noticing everything seemed peaceful. He left her and ventured into the woods to gather materials.

The Yuwen family parrot flew behind him but kept its distance. After half an hour, Yuwen Yue passed through a bamboo forest about ten kilometers from their lodge and suddenly sensed danger—a lingering feeling from midnight. As a master investigator from Green Hills Courtyard, Yuwen Yue examined the footprints. He memorized the soles, determining there had been three people present. The prints were smaller than a man's, leading him to believe they belonged to three women.

Analyzing the footprints, Yuwen Yue closed his eyes and mentally reconstructed the martial arts and swordplay associated with the tracks. The sound of rustling bamboo leaves filled the air as a cold wind brushed his face. He opened his eyes to see the perfectly cut bamboo trees.

He murmured, "Someone was wounded, someone escaped, and someone stayed." Yuwen Yue then recalled the Canhong sword he had found earlier in their room. He began to suspect that his wife might be hiding something that happened the previous night, something she didn't want him to know.

These thoughts stirred doubts in Yuwen Yue, but he chose not to confront Chu Qiao immediately. Instead, he set aside his suspicions and continued with his plans for the day. He decided to surprise Chu Qiao and hoped the truth would eventually reveal itself.

Yuwen Yue had yet to display his true abilities, including the use of his Poe Yue Jian sword. He believed his wife was unaware of his present identity and even his past remained a mystery to her. He wondered what had transpired after the icy lake tragedy... What had Yan Xun done to her? Was she broken by the grandeur of Yuan Song's power?

He remembered how Chu Qiao had loathed such displays when he first saw her, walking confidently along the red carpet, beautiful and brave, but with sadness in her eyes. His heart beat in sync with hers, both filled with sorrow.

Meanwhile, back at Shen Jin Palace, the Wei Emperor ordered the royal eunuch to summon Yuan Song. The emperor had not seen his son since his first night with the crown princess of Wei.

Rumors had spread that the 13th Prince of Wei, Crown Prince Yuan Song, spent his nights drinking heavily and had not shared a bed with the Wei crown princess. Instead, he entertained a harem of women and sometimes even invited maidservants to join him. The Wei Emperor was disturbed by this behavior—this womanizing son who spent his nights with five or six women was unfamiliar to him.

The emperor pondered whether the issue was Chu Qiao's strong-willed nature or her lack of submission. Nonetheless, Yuan Song had succeeded in defeating Yan Xun, or so it seemed. But did he truly win? Yan Xun, now King of Yanbei, had been silent ever since his coronation and marriage to his queen.

Although King of Yanbei, Yan Xun remained a declared traitor and rebel of Wei. Yet, the emperor had heard rumors that Yan Xun treated his queen, Xiao Yu, with great affection. Before and after their marriage, he sent lavish gifts of gold, silver, and bronze to her father, King Tang of Southern Liang.

Yan Xun even took his queen on a honeymoon tour of the XuiXui Mountains. There were rumors that he had secretly built a palace near the mountains, dedicated to a Lady Yan General who resembled Chu Qiao. The palace was closed to the public, and only Yan Xun had access to it.

The Wei Emperor asked himself: Who is this Yan General that resembles Chu Qiao? Is she someone more important than Chu Qiao, or are they the same person? The emperor couldn't clear his mind of these rumors, though they remained unconfirmed.

Yan Xun was a master at controlling information. Since his return to Yanbei, he had mastered the art of managing the flow of news in and out of his palace.

Yuan Song awoke, as usual, with five women in his bed and one on the floor, all half-naked in their expensive silk Hanfu dresses, evidence of a wild night.

Xiao Ba, his first concubine, entered the room, looking at him with pity. "When will you stop these wild parties?" she asked. "You honored your word and made me your first concubine, but you've only gotten worse since then."

Yuan Song's mind wandered back to the time he had eagerly awaited his wedding day with Chu Qiao. He had waited nine days, and when the moment arrived, Chu Qiao walked down the aisle in her grand wedding gown, stunning everyone in attendance.

Her hair was styled traditionally, adorned with gold hairpins and jade crystals, almost too heavy to wear. Despite this, Chu Qiao walked proudly and confidently, and Yuan Song, the joyful crown prince, took her hand in marriage, making her the Wei crown princess.

From nobles to military officers, all had attended the lavish three-day celebration, complete with endless wine and feasting. The Yuwen family had brought extravagant gifts and prime war horses, while palace ministers, shrine elders, and Wei masters raised their goblets in a toast, shouting, "Cheers!" as they celebrated the new crown prince and princess of Wei.

Among the Eastern royal guests who stayed at the palace after the engagement ceremony were Queen Zhejue of Qinghai, Second Prince Ra Zheng, and Sixth Prince Ra Zhun, but not Seventh Prince Ra Yue and his bodyguard Zuo Zong.

Since the night Yuwen Yue breached the Wei crown princess's palace, he had remained silent, unable to act on his desire to speak with Chu Qiao.

Though the Wei royal guards had found men unconscious that night, they had woken up without any harm. Nothing seemed out of place.

Ra Yue had been unable to bear the sight of Chu Qiao walking down the aisle to marry Yuan Song. Two days before the wedding, he approached the Wei Emperor to apologize, explaining that he had pressing princely duties and war preparations in the eastern tribes under his control.

The Qinghai Queen thought it was too soon for Ra Yue to leave Wei, and his brothers, Prince Ra Zheng and Ra Zhun, were equally surprised. Nevertheless, they allowed him to depart with his thousand-strong army dressed in white. Yuwen Yue resumed his journey to the Qinghai Empire.

Upon arriving at his palace, Yuwen Yue immediately wrote a letter to his father. Though he appeared depressed, he refused to give in to despair. Instead, he vowed to uncover the truth about his family and Chu Qiao.

Questions haunted him. How had Chu Qiao ended up here? Why didn't she even recognize him, not even a glimmer of recognition in her eyes?

These events made Yuwen Yue believe something was wrong. He wasn't there to witness it firsthand, but he knew something needed to be addressed.

After three nights of banquets and fulfilling all traditions, the Wei Empire's health ministry selected an auspicious date for the union and consummation of the crown prince and crown princess. Yuan Song, looking groomed and handsome, was eager to meet Chu Qiao when Xia Chong suddenly threw a needle at him.

Blinded by his first love for Chu Qiao, Yuan Song fell where Xia Chong stood, and Xiao Ba replaced her that night.

When morning came, the truth was revealed—Yuan Song had been with another woman, not Chu Qiao. Xia Chong, pretending to be consumed with jealousy and betrayal, declared that she would refuse any summons from the 13th Prince. She also stated that she would not share his bed until everything was resolved.

It was supposed to be their first night together, but Yuan Song had spent it with someone else. Xia Chong's performance convinced everyone that she was the real Chu Qiao, allowing her to defy both the Wei Emperor and the 13th Prince of Wei.

This turn of events left the 13th Prince deeply saddened, and his only comfort was seeking solace in his harem. Xiao Ba seized this opportunity to pressure Yuan Song into fulfilling his promise to make her his first concubine. However, Yuan Song, lost in confusion and immaturity, couldn't see things clearly.

He descended into the troubled state that now worried the Wei Emperor.

While Yuan Song was drunk with desperation over his first love and longing for Chu Qiao, Yuan Che took advantage of the situation to run the empire. The Wei Emperor entrusted more troops to Yuan Che, while Yuan Yang, ever the competitor, constantly opposed his brother. Yuan Yang intentionally undermined Yuan Che's efforts in pursuit of his own ambition for the Wei throne.

Yuan Yang frequently created obstacles to hinder Yuan Che's progress, but Yuan Che, knowing his brother's tactics, skillfully maneuvered around them, using his military expertise to stay ahead.

Little is known about Yuan Yang, but it is clear that he is biding his time, waiting for the right moment to claim the Wei throne. His past actions speak to this: when the Wei Emperor temporarily handed over his seal to Yuan Yang, he was the only eligible prince to take on his father's duties while Yuan Che was away defending the empire against external threats.

Yuan Yang, a quiet observer of the royal throne, distanced himself from the ministers and Yuwen nobles. Cold and unpredictable, he was known for making decisions based on the current situation, revealing his intentions only when the time was right.

Meanwhile, Xia Chong's replacement of Chu Qiao on the night of her escape left a significant mark, as she defied Wei traditions. The length of time she would continue her mission was unknown, and her fate depended on Xiao Ce's orders. He had facilitated their entry into the Wei palace, along with Xiao Ba, and they had agreed to free Chu Qiao—or Xia Chong would rot in Liang's secret prison.

After Chu Qiao's faked death, Yan Xun targeted the two sisters to locate Chu Qiao, imprisoning them until she could be found. Xiao Ce, upon learning of their captivity, arranged for an assassin to break them out of Yanbei's prison, but the mission failed.

Later, Xiao Ce discovered that his plans had been intercepted, and the two sisters were captured and sold to a brothel. Xiao Ce blamed himself for the leak, as he had no knowledge of their exact location.

The crown prince was furious at his inability to find the two sisters. By chance, Tie You eventually located them, but this put Tie You's life at risk and embroiled Xiao Ce in Liang Empire's political schemes.

Xiao Ce ultimately rescued Xiao Ba and Xiao Qi from the brothel in Liang, but it was too late—Xiao Ba had been exploited by the bandits, and Xiao Qi was in critical condition due to lack of medical care.

Outraged by the sisters' suffering, Xiao Ce ordered the brothel to be destroyed and its inhabitants killed.

For the first time, Xiao Ce was genuinely determined to set things right. With Yue Qi, Xiao Ba, and Xiao Qi by his side, he sought to gather more allies close to Chu Qiao. He even searched for Yuwen Yue, but Zao Baocung failed to return with any positive information, choosing instead to protect Yuwen Yue's new identity.

Zao Baocung had learned that the Qinghai crown prince, Yuwen Yue, was still alive, and he kept this secret from Xiao Ce. When Xiao Ce eventually accepted the news of Yuwen Yue's death, he was heartbroken, knowing his hope for a brighter future was gone.

Those sleepless nights in Liang's red district, spent drinking wine, brought little comfort. Though he had briefly experienced the joy of a relationship with an archer coach from Wei's hunting grounds, it wasn't enough to heal his broken heart.

Then, Xiao Ce received a rumor that Chu Qiao was alive, secretly leading the Xuili army in the Xuili mountains. Though it was just a rumor with no evidence, Xiao Ce longed for concrete proof.

Later, more rumors spread that Chu Qiao was in love with Yuan Song, and the news spread like wildfire. Xiao Ce, overwhelmed with mixed emotions, felt both happy and sad at the same time.

Xiao Ce was filled with mixed emotions: happy because he believed he had a chance to win Chu Qiao's heart, yet sorrowful, wondering why she chose someone like Yuan Song.

After the eve of Chu Qiao's engagement, when his Pandora's box was opened, Xiao Ce operated in the shadows of Wei's royal palace, but Chu Qiao had vanished without a trace. She had disappeared once again.

Xiao Ce couldn't help but blame himself. He feared he might have lost her forever.

Yuan Song's attitude began to change, especially in how he handled his affairs. He made sure everyone, including the fake Chu Qiao (Xia Chong), was aware of his actions. Xia Chong, seizing the opportunity, declared a cold war against Yuan Song, using his first concubine, Xiao Ba—the woman who had spent the night with him when he should have been with Chu Qiao.

Yan Xun remained silent on the news, but he suspected that Chu Qiao might be deliberately spreading this information. He couldn't tell if it was a trap or a lure to provoke a response that could lead to his downfall.

Yan Xun found himself in a difficult position. He couldn't act to save her, recalling the night with Chu Qiao when Xiao Yu had not poisoned the needle but had poisoned his mind, making him believe that Chu Qiao had tried to kill him that night.

Ever since then, Yan Xun carried a heavy heart, though he concealed it from everyone, including A'jing and Zhong Yu. He kept his emotions hidden, and that bitterness festered into a desire for revenge.

Yan Xun reverted to his old self, abandoning his responsibilities as King of Yanbei to the Xuili army. He was determined that for every misfortune Chu Qiao faced on the Wei palace throne as a married woman, he would repay it tenfold with the success of his own marriage to the new Queen of Yanbei.

In secret, Yan Xun hoped that when Chu Qiao heard about his wedding and their honeymoon at the XuiXui mountains—where he and Chu Qiao had once stayed for three nights—she would feel jealousy and regret. Yan Xun and Xiao Yu had stayed there for a month, and he wondered what Chu Qiao might think about what married couples do.

He hoped that Chu Qiao would regret rejecting him when he had asked her for the last time to become his queen. Yan Xun still had feelings for her but wanted her to make the first move to return to him. He promised himself that he would make her regret her decision.

How much this would hurt Chu Qiao was not the issue. The unfolding events had become complicated for everyone except her. Chu Qiao, completely out of the loop, had found her freedom. She had long been like a desert, barren and empty, even of time itself. Her memories were slowly returning to her mortal self, but it was a gradual process.

Meanwhile, Yuwen Yue, the only person who saw Chu Qiao from a different perspective, knew he had to act. In his heart and mind, he finally concluded:

Loving you is not easy.
It is like going to war unarmed.
It is like holding a bow and giving you the arrows.
So brace yourself, for I am coming to redeem you.
As I embrace you, my heart is in a bloodbath.
Whatever lies ahead, it should always be you.

Chapter 53

Serpent of the Day, Fox of the Night

At the Liang Palace, a prince in his flashy red robe walks back and forth on the palace's beautiful veranda, gazing at the flowers and the magnificent Chinese garden. It is truly a breathtaking sight.

However, the prince cannot appreciate its beauty. He is too preoccupied with thoughts of breaking some palace rules today and venturing into the streets in disguise once again.

The last time he did this, he almost lost his life.

Thanks to Chu Qiao and Sun Di, he was brought back alive, even though he had been gravely wounded by deadly arrows.

The servants and eunuchs are already exhausted from fanning the crown prince to keep him cool in the summer heat. They follow him wherever he goes, under strict orders from Emperor Tang. If the prince slips from their sight, heads will roll, and there will be no pardon.

Prince Xiao Ce has been confined to the palace for a long time, unable to evade his heavy guards, no matter how much he threatens or tries to trick them. His father, the emperor, has decreed that he remain grounded.

Suddenly, he goes inside his room and writes a letter. A sly smile spreads across his face as he orders, "Deliver this to Kong Sang Mountain. A friend must see me."

The guard servant nods and replies, "Yes, Your Highness."

After sending the letter, Xiao Ce begins planning his escape for the day.

He calls in his servants and arranges it so that they appear too busy to follow or guard him. Yesterday, he had already prepared items to use in his disguise for walking the streets.

But this time, he won't be alone. It's been a long time since he spoke with this friend. Although his friend still views him as royalty, Xiao Ce considers him one of the few people he would call a true friend, due to the loyal, unchanging character he had admired since they both served their original master.

His friend is also highly skilled in various areas: sword fighting, spying, demolition work—you name it, he can do it, as his impressive past record shows.

Meanwhile, Yuwen Yue returns to the lodge and sees his beloved still sleeping. He can't help but feel joy as he gazes at her lovely, peaceful face.

He prepares a hearty breakfast, and while waiting for her to wake up, he begins his carpentry work. Yuwen Yue is precise, measuring every inch of the sword's dimensions. He doesn't even need to look at the sword; he has memorized every detail.

Having been raised in a noble family of Mohists, with his grandfather Yuwen Gao and foster father Yuwen Hao, the original masters who designed the stratagems around Merlin, Castle Peak, Red and Green Hills Courtyard, and their empire's famous repository and intelligence center, the Eyes of God, Yuwen Yue has learned much about traps, lures, and other secret skills known only to the Yuwen heirs.

This carpentry task is easy for him, though it will take some time to complete this artistic work.

Yuwen Yue is crafting not one, but two sword holders.

The catch is that he's adding a unique design that only he and perhaps Chu Qiao would understand how to use.

He also plans to include special features—deadly add-ons—to make the sword holder worthy of the Canhong and Poe Yue Jian swords. He carves their names into the wood, making it personalized and one of a kind.

Chu Qiao wakes up and notices the sword. She thought she had hidden it under their bed, so why is it standing beside the wall now?

Did her husband see the sword?

Whatever the case, she hopes he didn't notice.

She quickly hides the sword elsewhere.

Yuwen Yue is just washing his hands when Chu Qiao finds him, and he gives her a cold glance.

Chu Qiao remains calm as she observes her husband, who appears as serene as the sea, as though he has no worries in the world. She asks him, "Do you have any parcels to deliver today?"

Yuwen Yue approaches her, looks her in the eye, and says, "I'm on vacation today."

Chu Qiao responds, "Well, that's good news."

Yuwen Yue, though cold in appearance, reveals happiness in his eyes as he says, "Come, let's have our late breakfast—or should I say lunch?"

Chu Qiao is still searching for signs that her husband may have seen the Canhong sword, but Yuwen Yue doesn't mention anything.

Likewise, Yuwen Yue has hidden the sword holder after sensing his wife's awakening, so before she could notice, he had already placed it somewhere she wouldn't find.

He doesn't plan to let her see it until the day he presents the final test.

Both sense an unspoken tension in the air. Chu Qiao squints her eyes, certain someone has touched the Canhong sword, but her husband remains silent.

As Yuwen Yue heads toward the dining table, a roof tile suddenly comes loose. Chu Qiao pushes her husband aside and catches the tile with her hands.

Yuwen Yue remains unshaken by Chu Qiao's actions, but Chu Qiao isn't feeling good about the situation.

Yuwen Yue quietly returns to the dining table and invites his wife to eat.

Chu Qiao puts the roof tile down and notices a ray of sunshine piercing through to their dining table. Yuwen Yue calmly says, "Will you join your husband for breakfast?"

Chu Qiao, still wary of her husband's indifferent behavior, takes a seat at the table and studies him. Yuwen Yue smiles and says, "Wife, the roof is not your concern. I'll fix it later. Let's eat."

Chu Qiao, unconvinced by her husband's calm stance, starts eating her cold noodles with chopsticks. Yuwen Yue does the same, and silence lingers between them.

Suddenly, Chu Qiao stands up and says, "Fine! Ask me!"

Yuwen Yue looked at her calmly and did not utter a word to his wife.

Chu Qiao, feeling irritated by Yuwen Yue's coldness and calmness, knowing full well her husband had something to say, asked, "Is there something I need to explain?"

Yuwen Yue, enjoying the sight of his beautiful wife's annoyed face—finding her even more attractive—replied, "Is there anything we need to talk about, my pretty wife?"

Chu Qiao blushed, but with a slightly angry voice, she said, "Maybe?"

In his calm voice, Yuwen Yue asked, "What did I say last time? Do you remember?"

Chu Qiao thought for a moment, then answered, "The walls have ears? Illegal channels?"

Yuwen Yue stopped eating, put down his chopsticks, and looked at her. "There, you said it yourself."

Wanting to test her husband further, Chu Qiao pointed her index finger at him and snapped, aiming for his neck. But Yuwen Yue, with his eyes closed, caught her delicate hand. Their faces were close, and neither of them moved.

Chu Qiao couldn't move, as Yuwen Yue had pressed on the nerves in her fingers. Then, in a rush, he kissed her lips. Surprised, Chu Qiao instinctively pulled back slightly, but Yuwen Yue, already holding her nape, kissed her again, unable to control himself. This time, Chu Qiao did not hesitate.

Yuwen Yue, lost in the moment, found it hard to stop. He suddenly snapped back to reality and gently moved his hands away from Chu Qiao's face. The warm air between them seemed to turn colder. Chu Qiao opened her eyes and saw her husband's calm face, though he wasn't looking at her. Yuwen Yue picked up his chopsticks. Chu Qiao, wanting the kiss to continue but feeling embarrassed, moved away slightly, her cheeks flushed. She could sense that Yuwen Yue knew she wanted the kiss to last longer.

Both remained silent, avoiding eye contact, as they continued eating. The attraction between them was strong, and Yuwen Yue feared that if he lost control, it would ruin his plans.

Suddenly here comes a man disguised as a eunuch arrived at Liang Palace under Prince Xiao Ce's orders.

Xiao Ce, with his back turned, saw the man and smiled. With his sly eyes and fragrant presence in a red-purple robe, the man bowed and greeted him, "Your Highness, what can I do for you?"

Xiao Ce stepped closer and whispered in his ear, "Yue Qi, I want you to stay in the palace and act as my temporary royal guard."

Yue Qi nodded and replied, "Yes, Your Highness."

With a sly smile, Xiao Ce whispered again, "I want to stroll through the streets today. Will you come with me?"

Yue Qi raised an eyebrow, understanding what the crown prince meant, and whispered back, "Your Highness, what time do you wish to go?"

Later in the afternoon, Chu Qiao was doing laundry. She hadn't practiced her martial arts that day, as Yuwen Yue was at home, chopping wood for their firewood supply.

He had learned this humble task during his time in the Woolong Mountains, where he had spent a few months after the frozen lake tragedy. There, he had stayed in a temple, learning wisdom, martial arts, and tribal warfare from the Far Eastern empires.

This was the same master who had taught Zhong Yu and Wudao Ya the Datong Way, which had shaped the Chu Jing Kingdom. Even now, its influence continued to shape Yanbei's government, under Wudao Ya's guidance.

Though the couple went about their usual chores, they were secretly careful not to reveal each other's secrets.

Xiao Ce, still feeling some pain in his healed wound on the back of his right chest, successfully slipped past the royal Liang guards with Yue Qi. They landed on a cushion of green grass outside the palace walls, smiling at their success. Only a serpent could crawl and climb such fortified walls undetected.

Faking its stomachache, Xiao Ce had used the royal toilet window to escape with Yue Qi's help. Yue Qi, disguised as a royal utility servant, had swept the palace corridors with a long-handled broom, then jumped sideways and used a rope to scale the walls. He waited on top for Xiao Ce.

After a few minutes, Xiao Ce, disguised like Yue Qi and carrying a backpack, climbed the wall with Yue Qi's assistance.

The two men then moved to a nearby gigantic tree, where they changed into noble attire, complete with noble hats, shoes, and hidden cold weapons in their Hanfu robes.

It was Yue Qi's first time strolling outside in two years, having spent that time recovering from multiple wounds. Now, he was back in the world, eager to see what fate had in store for him.

As night approached, the Liang crown prince, longing for some good company, asked Yue Qi if they could visit Zao Baocung's shop to gather information.

The two disguised men arrived at the shop. Xiao Ce found Zao Baocung asleep inside, while Yue Qi closed the curtains and locked the doors. Xiao Ce smiled, blinked his eyes, and pinched Zao's ear, startling the old man awake.

Groaning in pain, Zao grumbled, "Go away if you don't have enough Liang gold. I'm not selling anything today."

Xiao Ce chuckled and coughed. "I don't have any gold with me, but I came in secret to visit an old servant."

Zao, now half-awake, opened his eyes and saw the disguised crown prince. He immediately straightened up and bowed. "Your Highness, such a surprise visit! Is there anything I can do for you today?" Zao's eyes widened when he saw Yue Qi. "How could an old man forget a dead man who came back to life?"

Yue Qi stood silently in the corner, alert and waiting for Xiao Ce's orders.

Xiao Ce didn't waste time and said, "I'm not here to waste time, but I've heard from a reliable source that a jewelry shop was recently bought by a wealthy trader from the East. They had a priceless engagement ring with a unique policy. The shop was raided, and all the goons were killed, except for their leader, who is part of Zhan Ziyu's afterlife spy league. What do you know about this?"

Zao knew the details well. He had helped Yuwen Yue, the true owner of the jewelry shop.

At the time, the shop was on the brink of closure due to heavy debts. Yuwen Yue had paid off the debts on the condition that the shop be sold to him. His reason was simple: he needed a place to store the precious ring of Xinger, a keepsake of his love for the lowly maidservant who had shaken his world. Despite the cold-blooded empire they lived in and the inequality of their statuses, she had made him believe in love. Even in the face of painful death, their story had an ugly ending but a beautiful beginning, as Yuwen Yue was able to start anew.

Though Zao had assisted Yuwen Yue, he had no idea what his ultimate goal was. He knew Yuwen Yue wanted to trade secretly in Liang and learn about their economic growth, so he could offer Qinghai financial advice.

Zao didn't even know that Yuwen Yue had married. He was also unaware that Yuwen Yue had taken the ring from the shop. Zuo Zong had spun a convincing story that led the Liang authorities to believe the jewelry manager had conspired with goons, who then stole the ring.

With his quick wit and sharp tongue, Zao had suggested that Yuwen Yue use Zuo Zong as a dummy owner, to avoid exposing himself to the public and revealing that he was still alive. Yuwen Yue was too well-known as a high-ranking official from the West, and his reappearance would shock the world.

Lately, Southern Liang's crown prince, Xiao Ce, was also quite fond of him.

Xiao Ce waited for an answer from the old man while Yue Qi remained vigilant and silent in the shop.

Zao, trying to misinform him, replied, "Your Highness, the ring isn't of much value. It's just an ordinary ring, not even gold. But what makes it intriguing is the policy behind it."

Xiao Ce asked, "And what is the policy about?"

Zao explained, "It can be loaned for a certain time, but to release it from the jewelry shop, one has to buy a far-off kingdom."

Xiao Ce repeated, "Buy a far-off kingdom? Now that is really strange. For a ring of no value, one has to buy a kingdom?" He scoffed and laughed loudly, and Zao Baocung grinned as well.

Xiao Ce walked around, occasionally stroking his chin, and said, "Such an idiotic yet smart policy. And has someone already bought it? A couple in peasant clothes?"

Zao Baocung, continuing his deception, replied, "No, it was stolen. They say the owner of the jewelry shop was taken hostage, and as a ransom, he gave the ring to the jewelry manager. Anyway, he thought it was just a worthless piece of metal. As for the couple, they were mere victims of the rampage."

Xiao Ce laughed again, saying, "What a foolish owner. There must be a bigger picture behind this policy. Otherwise, heads wouldn't have rolled for it that day, just to end up in the hands of a 'finder's keeper.'"

Yue Qi, hearing the crown prince's words, couldn't help but chuckle slightly. But when Xiao Ce gave him a stern look, Yue Qi immediately returned to his vigilant and serious face.

Zao Baocung then offered some advice to the young crown prince. "Your Highness, may I say something? You didn't come here just to chat about a ring, did you?"

Xiao Ce, with a playful smile and foxy eyes, replied, "Smart old man! How did you know?" He then added, "I also wanted to ask for information about Chu Qiao."

Zao grinned and responded, "I heard she became the Wei crown princess, but not much news has come out about her since then."

Xiao Ce secretly laughed to himself, pleased that his Pandora's box was still sitting in the Wei Empire. He revealed to Zao, "Haven't you read the classics? The Trojan Horse of Troy? Different in style, but the principle remains the same."

Zao finally shared more information, saying, "I met her once when she was still a lowly maidservant in the Yuwen household. Our paths crossed when I helped her complete her revenge against the Yuwen family."

Xiao Ce knew this was vital information.

Zao continued, "Then, the gossip among my customers claimed that after the ice lake tragedy, the Prince of Yanbei hid her in the Xiuli Mountains. There, she became known as the Xiuli Lady General." He paused.

Xiao Ce, eager for more, asked, "Why did you stop?"

Zao, cautious about speaking too much to a royal, especially the King of Yanbei's brother-in-law, hesitated but continued, "They say Yan Xun built her a palace in the Xiu Xiu Mountains."

Xiao Ce had heard this before but dismissed it as a joke, not based on evidence.

Zao went on, "After being held in Xiuli, she escaped from Meilin, and rumors spread that she became engaged to the 13th Prince of Wei and is now married to him."

Xiao Ce enjoyed how Zao Baocung told the story, noting that Zao didn't mention Xia Chong, the woman who had replaced Chu Qiao that night when he lost her.

Flashback on Xiao Ce's Pandora's box

During his journey to his sister's wedding, Xiao Ce had managed to sneak out and head to the Wei borders, disguised as a spy. There, he waited for the love of his life, alone and trusting no one. He was filled with excitement, convinced his sleepless nights would soon be over. But as dawn broke, there was no sign of Chu Qiao. Heartbroken, the disguised crown prince of Liang left Wei and returned to attend his sister's wedding in Yanbei.

His plan to surprise everyone failed, and after some time, he returned to his nightly drinking sessions, hopping from one of Liang's famous bachelor nightclubs to another. That was how he coped until one fateful night, when he met two women who expressed interest in a blind date.

For the first time in his life, Xiao Ce used his gold handkerchief to bid for a blind date, unsure why he even joined. To his shock, the woman he ended up meeting was none other than Chu Qiao.

He had set the stage, wooing her grandly, convinced he had expressed his feelings enough for the girl of his dreams. They even spent the night together, but nothing happened between them. Chu Qiao had simply passed out from drinking and slept in his bed by accident.

The most beautiful yet painful moment came when he witnessed her reunite with her sister, Xiao Ba. Before he knew it, he was gasping for breath, hit by an arrow in the back.

After Chu Qiao's visit, Xiao Ce had felt a glimmer of hope and love in the early spring air. But that hope was dashed when he learned she had a secret suitor who visited their Kowloon house frequently and had eventually married him. All this while Xiao Ce was detained in the golden prison of his JinWu Palace.

When Xiao Ce received the spy's report, he was shocked. He fell into deep thought, wondering who this man could be—someone who had managed to bypass the defenses he had set up to nurture the love of his dreams. No matter what he did, Chu Qiao seemed to keep slipping out of his grasp.

Now, back in the conversation with Zao, Xiao Ce, with sadness in his eyes and letting his guard down for a moment, said, "To see is to believe. But I wish, when I see her, that it isn't true—that she hasn't really married."

Zao felt the pain in the crown prince's words and offered some unsolicited advice. "She's a beautiful disaster right now, but who knows? Fate may still turn the tides in your favor someday."

Xiao Ce smiled at Zao Baocung's words and turned to Yue Qi, asking, "Hey buddy, did you hear that?"

Yue Qi, ever calm and assertive, replied, "I didn't hear anything, Your Highness, if you don't want me to."

Yue Qi knew Chu Qiao well, and from what he had heard, he could only believe one thing: somewhere in his barren land of hope, there was a spring of belief that his master, Yuwen Yue, was still alive, and Chu Qiao couldn't possibly be with anyone else.

In Yue Qi's mind, he thought,Who else could the Star child be with, except for Fourth Young Master Yuwen Yue? This isn't a land of dreams, but it is a world where anything can happen under the heavens.

As night fell, the summer moon rose in the southern skies. The two disguised men trailed the walls of the Liang Daming Palace and returned to their base. Another sleepless night awaited the crown prince, but this time he carried with him sound wisdom. He repeated Zao's words to himself, "She's a beautiful disaster."

Despite everything, he couldn't stop himself from pursuing the girl of his dreams. Xiao Ce removed his mask once again, putting on a spy disguise to try and cancel Chu Qiao's engagement, while pretending to be busy with his sister's wedding preparations. No one could complain about his actions.

He was the master of masks, a secret player and a secret thief of Chu Qiao's affections. His evil charm but good heart was difficult to resist.

His royal companion, back in his eunuch disguise, sealed off the day with hopes for better days ahead.

Chapter 54

The art of trespassing

Between the perfect sunrise and the perfect bloom of flowers in the summer forest lies a small, secluded lodge where a Cangwu bird lives on its roof.

Late in the afternoon, after finishing her usual household duties and martial arts practice, Chu Qiao felt the need for some female companionship.

She decided to visit her old lady friend on Xue Fu Street. She cooked and brought some delicacies, eager and excited to meet her.

Having Yue Qi in the Liang Palace meant increased mobility for Xiao Ce. He asked Yue Qi to spy on a little street known as Xue Fu. Yue Qi agreed, and in his noble Hanfu disguise, complete with a hat and shoes, he set out.

Xia Chong finished her cold tea and received a pigeon courier with a note attached to its foot as it landed on the veranda of the Wei Crown Princess's palace.

She opened the note, read it, and swiftly took her coat, sneaking out on her own, bypassing the security and protocols of the Wei palace.

The royal guards were used to her behavior by now. She had threatened to kill them if they refused to let her pass. Furthermore, if any of her secret getaways were ever reported to the 13th Prince of Wei, Yuan Song, she swore she would cut their throats on the spot. Like a falcon, the false Chu Qiao rode away on her horse, heading for Xiao Yu's usual meeting place.

When she arrived, Xiao Yu gave her instructions to follow.

Yan Xun never forgets the last night he spent with Chu Qiao. He clearly remembers every word she told him, including her suspicions about Xiao Yu spying on him. Yan Xun believed his Queen was doing it out of love for him, but deep down, he didn't fully trust her.

On Xiao Yu's way out of Yan Palace, he secretly followed her and saw her meeting with Chu Qiao. His heart raced as he watched the two of them together.

He had never felt so angry until that moment, knowing they were secretly allied and meeting in the forest at twilight. He calmed himself and continued to follow them.

Yuwen Yue, returning home late at night after his routine work, found the lodge in order, except for a small note tucked in the corner of the dining table.

He moved past the dining area to the bedroom and saw a shiny, shimmering bed of silk, with a pearly white figure lying on it. The bed was veiled with a thin curtain, but a quick glance revealed who was lying there.

Yuwen Yue, cold and uninvited, suddenly found his gaze fixed on the beautiful woman in the bed.

"Is that really my wife?" Yuwen Yue wondered.

He blinked, trying to confirm what he was seeing.

But he was momentarily distracted by the memory of the note he had read earlier. In the letter, Chu Qiao had mentioned she was visiting an old friend at Kowloon House and wouldn't be back until later that night.

Yuwen Yue squinted, thinking perhaps Chu Qiao was playing a game to lure him in.

Or maybe she was initiating the first steps toward consummating their long-delayed intimacy.

"Have I deprived her of something?" Yuwen Yue thought, bewildered.

Despite this, Yuwen Yue had never felt as though Chu Qiao had ever taken the initiative. It was always he who made the first move, only to stop himself before going too far.

"Look at her," Yuwen Yue mused to himself, doubting his own thoughts.

Right now, it seemed as though his wife, lying like a serpent on their bed, was demanding her husband fulfill his duties.

Yuwen Yue swallowed, his throat dry, shaking off his erotic thoughts.

He started to doubt his wife but decided to give her the benefit of the doubt. He entered the room, removed his peasant dress, and donned his neat Hanfu sleeping robes.

Yuwen Yue could no longer hide his desire for his wife. His mind was racing with the anticipation of what was about to happen, though part of him sensed danger and suspected Chu Qiao might be luring him into a trap.

While the moment felt heavenly, his instincts told him to stay alert. He slid a small dagger into his innerwear, just in case.

Carefully, Yuwen Yue approached the bed and saw his wife's curvy back.

He immediately noticed something was off—there was no small red tattoo on her back, something he had glimpsed before.

Yuwen Yue's thoughts raced. While he was drawn to the woman he believed to be Chu Qiao, memories of their past together flooded his mind, including when she had served as his bedchamber maid.

Suddenly, the fragrant smoke in the room made Yuwen Yue feel as though he might faint. The woman on the bed turned to face him.

Before losing consciousness, Yuwen Yue realized what Chu Qiao was about to do. As her naked body came into view, he nearly lost control, entranced by her eyes—until someone drew a clean blade, aiming for his neck.

Yuwen Yue, now on top of the woman he thought was Chu Qiao, pressed a sharp blade to her throat.

He had faked his fall, leading Chu Qiao to believe he had succumbed to the effects of the fragrant smoke.

Though it was difficult, Chu Qiao didn't move.

Yuwen Yue told her, "I have survived a hundred assassination attempts, including this honey trap you're trying now. Who are you? Tell me why you're doing this."

Suddenly, the Cangwu bird flew to the window and began squawking loudly, shouting, "Fool, fool, fool!"

The bird then called out Chu Qiao's former name: "Xinger… Xinger… Xinger…"

Its voice grew hoarse as it repeated the distress call. Yuwen Yue looked at Chu Qiao and said, "If you don't learn your lesson today, you won't last the night."

He released her, but kept the cold dagger ready to strike at her neck. Chu Qiao understood his warning. She stood up and slowly walked away from the bed. Like a snake—fearless yet wary of the man's dragon-like eyes.

A snake couldn't survive this divine, predatory human—his calm gaze only heightened his deadly instincts.

Xia Chong could no longer withstand Yuwen Yue's killer instincts and bolted from the room, leaving Yuwen Yue behind.

From a distance, Xiao Yu saw the man, barely able to make out his face. She felt as if she had seen a ghost, and fear crept through her veins.

Meanwhile, Xia Chong rode back to the Wei palace. Unbeknownst to her, another pair of eyes had been watching the scene. Yan Xun, on his horse, followed Xia Chong.

Once Yuwen Yue realized the woman had left, he knew his lodge had been compromised. There were eyes everywhere—illegal channels must have been set up.

Yuwen Yue calmed himself, thinking of Chu Qiao, still on her way home.

He wasn't overly worried about the chaos but was deeply concerned for Chu Qiao's safety.

Yuwen Yue suddenly rushed out of the room, inspecting every corner of their lodge for the Canhong sword.

When he didn't find it, he thought, "She took it with her."

Returning to the room, he arranged the bed as though nothing had happened, but left a mark. Meanwhile, Xia Chong, following Xiao Yu's instructions, was working to sabotage Chu Qiao's marriage.

Yuwen Yue left a small trace of blood on the bed—a ticking time bomb that would explode when the truth was revealed, showing that Yuwen Yue had been unfaithful.

He knew that once disturbed, snakes always return with reinforcements.

Just then, Chu Qiao arrived, her face bright with happiness as she knocked on the door. But she felt something strange—the bird was staring at her, not its usual lively self.

Yuwen Yue, attempting to act normal, opened the door coldly to greet his wife. He then walked straight to the kitchen, waiting for the water to boil. Chu Qiao scanned the lodge and everything seemed fine.

"Have you eaten dinner?" Chu Qiao asked.

Yuwen Yue responded coldly, "Yes, I did."

"Well, the old lady gave me this. If you want, we can eat again," Chu Qiao said with a sweet smile.

Yuwen Yue, with his cold eyes, replied briefly, "Sure."

Still running on adrenaline, Yuwen Yue suddenly moved toward his wife without warning and passionately kissed her.

He didn't care how long his mind raced.

Chu Qiao was shocked—her husband's desire seemed mixed with anger. Yuwen Yue wanted her so badly, with such intensity, that he pushed her hard, laying her down on their dining table.

Chu Qiao did not respond to the intense kiss. She allowed Yuwen Yue to continue, but it hurt her back and lips.

Feeling nervous, Chu Qiao's tension became apparent, and when Yuwen Yue sensed it, he stopped. He said, "I'm sorry, Iwascarried away," placing emphasis on "was."

Yuwen Yue, secretly speaking in code for his wife to decipher, was offering an apology—something unusual for him, which should have served as a clue for Chu Qiao. However, she remained clueless.

The cold, charming man, now looking flushed with desire, with wet lips, stopped kissing and sat down on a chair, gazing at his wife. His calm eyes reflected the adrenaline rush now dissipated after the long, passionate kiss.

"Let's eat first," Chu Qiao suggested.

She stared at him, feeling something strange, then arched herself off the table and gathered her clothes from the floor.

Yuwen Yue nodded, watching as his wife served their dinner bowls and prepared the night tea they usually drank before bed.

Like any other night, they ate and went to sleep, at peace.

As the night deepened, the cold summer forest filled with the howls of foxes, and owls began their eerie hooting. The Yuwen parrot, half-asleep, occasionally opened its eyes, its distress not fully quelled.

Several dark figures surrounded the lodge. Yuwen Yue, careful not to wake his wife, stood up and silently stepped outside. The surroundings were filled with traps designed to ward off intruders.

Yuwen Yue, a former master of the Eyes of God, knew that sooner or later, this lodge would be compromised. He had built hidden caches of his weapons, nearly impossible for anyone but him to find.

Sensing danger closing in, he placed a flare beside a wooden stool near the well. Knowing enemies were watching, Yuwen Yue began fetching water as usual.

He pulled up the wooden pail, poured the water onto the ground, and retrieved something before repeating the action.

As the dark entity watched him carefully, a feminine voice called out, "You're about to be killed, and yet here you are, still fetching water?"

Yuwen Yue didn't look at her but replied, "How sure are you that I'll be killed tonight?"

Still in the middle of pulling the pail of water, the woman hurled deadly needles at him.

Without looking, Yuwen Yue detached a piece of bolo wood from the well, catching the needles with no effort, using it as a shield.

"I can tell by what you're doing," said the woman, clearly impressed.

Yuwen Yue, still focused on the well, didn't move as she brandished a dagger, aiming for his body.

In a fluid motion, Yuwen Yue evaded the attack, swinging his body around the well's lever before resuming his position, still fetching water.

The woman, now more than impressed, was visibly annoyed. She laughed mockingly. "Ha… Ha… Ha… Why do you look so foolish?"

"Foolish? Am I?" Yuwen Yue asked calmly, still looking down at the well.

As his hand gripped the pail for the third time, the sound of a lock clicking filled the air. The well seemed as though it would explode, and suddenly, a sword shot out with a gush of water, leaping toward his Poe Yue Jian sword mid-air.

"Wow!"

A sudden exclamation and the sound of clapping came from the distance. Another figure had joined the scene. Yuwen Yue closed his eyes and recognized the scent immediately. There was no mistaking the identity.

Two Liang royals had come to ambush him, but neither recognized his face, now concealed beneath a beard that made him appear older than he was.

Xiao Ce, with a sly grin, revealed his white teeth, easing the tension as he mocked both combatants. "Sister, why are you disturbing a humble man who just wants to fetch water from his well?"

He turned to Yuwen Yue, adding, "And you, flying sword man, or whatever martial art you're practicing—why would you disrespect my sister by drenching her in water while she's in her sacred black ninja suit?"

Xiao Yu, drenched in water but maintaining her fierce gaze, unsheathed her belt sword, preparing for what she considered the real fight to come.

Yuwen Yue, still calm, replied, "Why don't you ask your sister?"

Xiao Ce, tired of Yuwen Yue's silver tongue, stepped between them, blocking the potential conflict with his body.

Yuwen Yue had yet to fully unsheathe his Poe Yue Jian sword, which was still covered in mud from the well.

Seeing no immediate danger, Yuwen Yue calmly walked back to the well and continued his routine.

The two Liang royals stared in disbelief, their patience wearing thin.

Xiao Yu rolled her eyes, while Xiao Ce raised his brows in amusement, clearly enjoying the mischief. He quipped, "Seriously, what are you doing?"

Despite the tension, Yuwen Yue's movements were slow and unhurried, as if he were in sync with the wind blowing through the bamboo forest, which whispered like falling rain, sending chills through the air.

Yuwen Yue pulled up the pail once more, pouring water onto his sword sheath, while the two royals continued to watch him in bewilderment.

His face remained calm and expressionless.

Suddenly, a new group of dark ninja figures arrived. Their target was not Yuwen Yue but the two Liang royals. They charged forward to attack Xiao Yu and Xiao Ce.

A sniper shot a double arrow at Xiao Ce, who narrowly escaped injury. Xiao Yu, however, was struck on the back by a blackguard assassin.

Yuwen Yue, seemingly uninterested in the chaotic scene, focused on his sword, cleaning the sheath of his Poe Yue Jian.

Finally, as if time had slowed, Yuwen Yue's eyes flashed with the mastery of a true swordsman. He unsheathed his glowing sword.

Xiao Yu, frozen in place, watched as another assassin flew toward her, ready to strike.

With one swift movement, Yuwen Yue countered the attack, cutting off the assailant's head.

In an instant, Yuwen Yue, who had been her enemy, became her savior.

He lifted Xiao Yu's blood-soaked body into his arms. Looking into his eyes, Xiao Yu asked, "Was it you?"

Yuwen Yue did not answer her. She repeated the question: "Is it really you?"

Yuwen Yue glanced at her wound and said, "Don't move, or you'll lose more blood." He gently positioned Xiao Yu near the well to shield her.

Suddenly, the sniper Bowman lowered his bow and arrows, eyes wide with disbelief.What did I just see? Is it a ghost?he wondered.

Yue Qi couldn't approach, but as he stared, he felt it in his veins—he could not deny that this man was his original master, Yuwen Yue.

Xiao Ce, pretending its incompetence, was attacked by another blackguard, and then another. Yuwen Yue moved swiftly, defending both royals with ease.

His movements were flawless—every swing of his sword was precise, cutting down his enemies effortlessly. He chopped through their necks with a master's precision.

In the final strike, he swiftly finished the last foe with a perfect cut.

The fine art of a master swordsman was on full display. His expressionless, handsome face tilted downward as he observed the carnage.

The summer moon, shining brightly, bore witness to the bloodbath, casting light upon the clear sky. In the distance, a black horse charged toward the scene, its rider, the black-hooded prince, returning to the lodge to check on his Queen—only to be too late to see the action.

Yan Xun saw his Queen lying near the well, weakened by blood loss. He spurred his horse forward, quickly intruding upon the scene. Xiao Yu saw him and reached out her hand. Yan Xun grabbed her arm, lifting her effortlessly onto his horse.

Without glancing at the others, Yan Xun sped away, his horse, Blast—Yanbei's unmatched war horse—carrying them like a flash.

And just like that, the night's events unfolded quickly. Yuwen Yue had seen all his former comrades, but not once did he catch a glimpse of his former best friend, Yan Xun, King of Yanbei.

He felt oddly at home, though the stench of blood returned with it.

When the danger had passed and the bodies lay still, Xiao Ce approached Yuwen Yue. His sharp gaze betrayed no confusion. He finally spoke: "Who else but YOU…"

With his signature sly grin, Xiao Ce added, "I made no mistake. I knew they were lying when they told me you were dead. Iknewit was a lie."

Yuwen Yue surveyed the mess outside his lodge. He knew he'd have to clean it up soon, but his wife, still asleep inside, was blissfully unaware of what had just transpired.

He didn't want to explain or complicate things with her.

Xiao Ce, his voice filled with genuine concern, said, "Yuwen Yue, I'll clean this mess. By morning, everything will be whitewashed…"

In a softer tone, he added, "Just take care ofherfor me."

Yue Qi, perched in the tree with his bow and arrow, wiped tears from his face, frozen in place. His feet felt like ice as he stared down at his long-lost master, unable to move.

Yuwen Yue called up to him, "Come down. It's safe."

Yue Qi climbed down and, for the first time in years, faced the original master to whom he had sworn his life. Bowing deeply, Yue Qi paid his respects to Yuwen Yue.

A flashback crossed Yuwen Yue's mind—when the Bowman shot a blackguard, aiming not to kill, but to send a signal. Yuwen Yue had already realized that the sniper was intentionally avoiding fatal blows, knowing full well the blackguards were from Wei state.

Yue Qi, the only one capable of such precision, had aimed to exhaust their weak spots, confirming his identity.

Relaxed, Yuwen Yue had allowed the unseen ally to buy him time to unsheathe his sword. Through his flawless mastery of the Jian sword, he communicated silently with Yue Qi, a skill only a Yuwen heir could execute with such precision, targeting the blackguards' tattooed necks.

Yuwen Yue stared at Yue Qi, his gaze cold yet welcoming. Relief washed over him—his loyal comrade, his brother, was alive.

As for tonight, Yuwen Yue thought Yue Qi deserved a drinking session, a man-to-man talk—but not just yet.

Xiao Ce, sensing the silent exchange between former master and servant, squinted his foxy eyes and said, "Yue Qi, from this day forward, STAY ALIVE. I don't want to be burdened by another dead body, but you're welcome to visit Liang, your second home. Just don't forget to bring me some fresh tea leaves, harvested within three days."

Yue Qi nodded, replying, "Your Highness, I don't know why you place such value on a lowly servant like me. I could never repay you, not even in seven lifetimes."

Xiao Ce, unwilling to dwell on the pain of letting go and suppressing the jealousy he felt toward Yuwen Yue's luck in having such a loyal companion, said, "May the Qians bless me and send me someone like Yue Qi to replace the brother and friend I gave away today."

Yuwen Yue, sensing Xiao Ce's attachment to Yue Qi, replied, "Your Highness, thank you for looking after my servant. It wasn't required, nor was it worth your time, but you did it anyway. I'm sure you'll find someone to replace what you've so graciously given today."

He added, "Since it's already midnight, I cannot let the Crown Prince travel through the dangerous forest…"

But before he could finish, Xiao Ce triggered a flare, lighting up the sky.

The three of them knew what that meant. Within minutes, the sound of horse hooves approached to fetch the Prince, who had already begun his journey through the cold forest, ensuring he remained undiscovered.

Yue Qi knew the Crown Prince would soon face an interrogation from Liang's elders and Emperor Tang, forced to explain his actions from the night.

Xiao Ce, ever mischievous, clicked his tongue in amusement. "Tsk, tsk, tsk," he said, hinting at the games and masks the Crown Prince of Liang would once again put on after tonight.

Yuwen Yue stared coldly into the dark forest, while a sincere smile spread across Yue Qi's face as he shook his head from side to side.

The misty night was alive with the presence of something sinister. Somewhere in the dark, a bloodthirsty figure lurked, her eyes burning with hellish fury. She thought,This can't be real. They claim the heir to the Eyes of God died and was despised…

He isn't real. No one must believe. No one must know this.

Chapter 55

Temple of the heart

"Breathe"

I hear the sound, echoes beneath
Where angels and skylines meet,
And I'm straining to reach
The light on the surface, light on the other side.
I feel the pages turning,
I see the candle burning down
Before my eyes, before my wild eyes.
I feel you holding me tighter, I cannot see.
When will we finally breathe, breathe, breathe?
Breathe, breathe, breathe.
I feel the pages turning,
I see the candle burning down
Before my eyes, before my wild eyes.
I feel you holding me tighter, I cannot see.
When will we finally breathe, breathe, breathe?
Breathe, breathe, breathe.

As the summer heat plays on the petals of an open flower field, the warm winds blew across, carrying the dandelions—the princess of the lawn. Roses stood as the queen of the gardens, lotus as the fairy of shallow and murky waters, and the sunflower thrived even in drought-stricken soil, pushing all living things to grow and shine under the sun.

At the heart of the summer forest, a lover's haven, the tranquil sounds of bamboo swaying in the breeze brought peace, but the calm was suddenly disturbed by swarming bees and butterflies.

The sweet honey at the heart of the lovers' home held secrets that were slowly unfolding, carrying both sweetness and bitterness.

Chu Qiao, for the first time in her life, had the best sleep. She woke up and found her husband lying peacefully, his head nestled sweetly, undisturbed. His face, like calm waters, soothed her soul.

She slipped on her slippers and went out of their room to boil some water. Suddenly, a man appeared in the distance, sweat dripping from his brow, walking toward their lodge.

Chu Qiao sensed no threat from the man and relaxed. She stepped out to greet him, but just as he neared their home, he sat by the well, drew up a pail of water, and drank deeply.

Chu Qiao nostalgically tried to recall where she had met him before. Was it yesterday, or perhaps in her distant past?

Yue Qi, unaware of her presence, was slightly surprised when he saw her and softly whispered, "Xinger?"

Chu Qiao, equally perplexed, responded, "Master Zuo? Xinger, who?"

"What are you doing here?" Yue Qi, in a somewhat childlike fascination, thought to himself that he had finally met his master Yuwen Yue's wife.

"I should be asking you that. What are you doing here? Spying on me? I think I saw you yesterday," Chu Qiao said, her eyes widening as she suddenly remembered. "You were one of the customers at the Kowloon house, right?"

Sensing her suspicion, Yue Qi responded, "First, I live here too, as my master lives here. Second, I wasn't spying. I'm just a regular customer who loves noodles."

Yue Qi's slight corner smile irritated Chu Qiao. "So I was right! You followed me all the way here?"

Yue Qi, admiring her cleverness, was about to respond when a familiar, cold voice interrupted.

"Maybe?" Yuwen Yue, her husband, approached from behind.

Chu Qiao, startled, began to speak. "Ra Yue, is he..." but Yuwen Yue finished her thought.

Exchanging a brief glance with Yue Qi, Yuwen Yue said simply, "He's my brother."

Yuwen Yue had already shared some details with Yue Qi, but Yue Qi had never asked about his wife.

Chu Qiao, still somewhat confused, tilted her head and squinted at Yuwen Yue. "What's his name?"

"I'm Yue Qi," he answered, then paused, glancing at Yuwen Yue's cold face before adding, "Ra Yue is my master and my brother."

Chu Qiao, still uncertain but happy to meet someone from Yuwen Yue's family, welcomed him. "Yue Qi, I'm sorry we haven't had time to get to know each other properly as family, but you are welcome to stay here with your master and brother."

Still trying to piece together the mystery, Chu Qiao thought that Master Zuo Zong resembled Yue Qi more than Ra Yue, but if Yuwen Yue said he was family, she accepted it.

Yue Qi, dressed in a simple peasant Chinese-collar garment, set down the bamboo he had gathered. In a passing glance, Chu Qiao noticed the scars on his body.

Returning to the lodge, Chu Qiao found Yuwen Yue already preparing to leave. "When I come back, make sure to pack everything. We're leaving this place."

"Leave? Why?" Chu Qiao asked, surprised by his sudden request.

"Illegal channels. Walls have ears. I'll explain later," Yuwen Yue replied, his cold but calm expression assuring her that everything was under control.

"Okay, as long as my husband comes back, and this place is neat and clean."

Yuwen Yue kissed her temple and said, "My wife obeys, and I'll have a bright future ahead."

"Will your little brother go with you?" Chu Qiao asked.

"Yes. See you later," Yuwen Yue said before walking away, Yue Qi following closely behind.

Chu Qiao began packing, unaware of what had transpired the night before. The surroundings, once a chaotic mess, were now clean and orderly. As she packed, she retrieved her Canhong sword and, under the sunlight, began practicing her swordplay.

In front of her fierce eyes, the Canhong sword gleamed as she unsheathed its dark red blade. Closing her eyes to meditate, she recalled the lessons Master Xie Tai Shan had taught her—how to grip the sword and the proper stance. She also remembered the stories about Tai Yueshen, Yuwen Yue's mother, and the secret techniques discussed under the bonfire in the cold forests between Wei and Liang borders.

Chu Qiao's movements were precise as she twirled and cut through the air, her commanding presence evident in the shadows she cast. With a final flick of her wrist, she pulled the sword down between her brows, her fierce eyes focused.

"Shua!"

The sound of the blade slicing through the air was followed by a soft thud as the bed linen tore, revealing a note hidden beneath the quilted sheets.

She read the note aloud: "Hauntingly beautiful, in your arms, in this bed, your lips became mine."

Chu Qiao's face flushed red, her heart pounding like a drum. Could Yuwen Yue be cheating on her, in their marriage bed?

Furious, she smashed the bed, revealing bloodstains beneath the pillows. The scent made her choke.

Is it the death of her body or the death of her heart?The body can heal if cut, but a heart wounded deeply—only time can tell if it will ever mend.

Inside her, a fire rages, burning her feelings and reducing her trust and confidence to ashes. She can no longer feel love for her husband and is consumed by the desire for revenge.

In her rage, Chu Qiao picked up her sword and resumed her practice. But this time, her practice was not about precision or grace; it was about destruction. She slashed through the lodge, her blade marking every corner and surface. This was not just an angry woman—it was a wife who felt betrayed, played, and shattered.

After unleashing her anger, she made a promise to herself: she would find the girl who had corrupted her husband, burn her alive, and feed her body to the vultures.

Like any woman scorned, Chu Qiao felt cheated. In this moment, reason abandoned her, leaving only rage.

She wrapped her sword in a thick, dirty, woven canvas to conceal it. Among the wreckage of the lodge, she sat in a Zen position, meditating as if nothing had happened. In her left hand, she clutched the short note; in her right, she held her engagement and wedding rings.

No one could predict what would happen when Yuwen Yue returned. No one knew what she intended when they faced each other.

It would be best if the Lion didn't return to his den, lest he find it in complete disarray, with the tigress showing her dominance. The Lion would have to choose carefully. A wrong decision could end their whirlwind romance and marriage, left like an unopened parcel that, though not consumed, could expire. It takes grace to remain kind in cruel situations.

Suddenly, Yuwen Yue's parrot, restless from lack of sleep, flew to the window and called her former name: "Xinger!"

Three times the bird called, and Chu Qiao, softening, looked at it. Her eyes, guilty with tears, filled again. She approached the bird and spoke bitterly: "You always call me Xinger, and I've been okay with that—but not today. Just this moment, your master is a heartbreaker. This time, I have the right to be selfish. I don't want to share him, not even with you..."

As she was talking to the bird, it suddenly said, "Yuwen Yue, Yuwen Yue, Yuwen Yue." Chu Qiao was astonished. She stopped and wiped her silent tears, for she had never uttered that name until she heard the bird speak it so clearly.

"Do you know the Fourth Young Master of Greenhills Courtyard?" she asked, but the bird did not respond. Tears fell from her eyes once again as she whispered, "In fact, I'm going to that place right now. Do you want to come with me?"

"Let's visit his cenotaph."

"I just have to say a few things to him... Even if it's just to the wind, may my whispers reach the heavens."

Chu Qiao, having passed from the peak of her anger to an empty, mellow feeling, wondered whether she should wait for Yuwen Yue or simply leave on her own. Without complications, she could leave him a note and disappear, leaving everything hanging in the air.

She was deeply hurt, and the need to release that pain was overwhelming.

For the first time in her life, she had truly loved a man. She had given him her heart without doubt or hesitation. She had protected their marriage. But Chu Qiao could not settle for anything less.

She believed this was her fair share—Yuwen Yue was not a ration to be divided or a piece to be shared. He was her world, her moon, her sun. Justice and fairness were what mattered to her.

She did not even want to walk down the path of betrayal, for she didn't yet know the full truth of what her husband had done. But the signs of unfaithfulness spoke louder than words, louder than she could bear to ask him.

In this moment, she felt as if she had already died.

"I have survived many fights, won many wars, but right now, I can no longer tell if I am still alive or already burned to ashes. Consider me gone from this world. Ra Yue... What have you done?"

Chu Qiao picked up her sword. The bird scratched out her final words from the tears she shed, and she read them aloud:

The best fight is not to fight at all.
When you are ready to face the bullet of truth
And stop playing with fire,
Maybe, it won't be too late.

Stars hide from the moon,
And the sun casts a shadow on the world.
If we ever cross paths again,
Then you will know—
I loved you for a lifetime.

On her last step, her shadow passed through the door as she quietly walked on the forest ground, her silent tears still falling from her eyes.

The bird on her shoulder remained quiet too, seemingly unaware of what its new master was feeling or doing, and it didn't sense anything strange in her behavior.

On the other side of Xue Fu Street were the hotels, with the penthouse at the top belonging to Zuo Zong. This was also where Yuwen Yue's spy quarters were installed.

Yue Qi, on the other hand, pretended to be a guest. Yuwen Yue had given him access to one of the rooms, allowing him to remain unnoticed as they continued their covert operations as allies.

"Yue Qi, we have all the time in the world to discuss the icy lake, but right now, we have eyes watching us from all directions. We were compromised last night," Yuwen Yue said.

Yue Qi, with his usual calm stance from their days in the Green Hills Courtyard, replied, "KongZi, don't worry about me. Go where you need to, and I will follow."

Yuwen Yue paused briefly and, with a cold gaze, said, "I just found you again. I've never felt so fortunate as I did last night."

Yue Qi smiled and replied, "I'm the lucky one here, and I've never doubted you for a second."

Yuwen Yue, slightly amused, said, "Suit yourself. Here, take this—you know where to find me in this building."

Inside the Liang State court, Xiao Ce, accustomed to his father's stern questioning, used his silvery tongue to explain his escape from the palace the previous night. He even romanticized the story to the King's officials, swaying their opinions in his favor and that of his escorts.

King Tang had issued a decree and was awaiting its verdict, which would depend on Xiao Ce's reasoning. The disposition of the case would determine whether the Crown Prince's violation of Royal Palace protocols would be pardoned.

For the moment, the entire escort team of the Crown Prince had been dismissed and imprisoned in the Liang Garrison grounds. The execution ax, displayed prominently, awaited its victims—sharp blades gleaming like the jaws of a beast ready to strike, should Xiao Ce fail to justify his actions.

Xiao Ce, ever cunning, continued his explanation. His final crime had been the fire at JinWu Palace, set under his command, though he claimed it was all part of an experiment—he had simply wanted to test a new method of cooking and serving turkey. His reasoning, absurd as it seemed, spared the Kitchen Ministry head, and the kitchen boy who delivered the charred turkey was freed and even promoted by the King's officials. However, Xiao Ce didn't agree to the promotion, stating, "No."

Xiao Ce had, in fact, hidden this kitchen boy—Ping'An—after he was bullied and thrown out of the Yan army for serving General Chu Qiao. When Xiao Ce found him, he was beaten nearly to death. Xiao Ce had saved him, asking, "You were thrown out of the Yan palace because you were Chu Qiao's personal aide?"

Ping'An, unable to speak through his bruises, nodded.

"Very well," Xiao Ce said, "will you serve me and tell me what happened to Chu Qiao?"

Ping'An reached out for Xiao Ce's hand, and from that moment, the boy became an important figure in the Crown Prince's life. When Ping'An recovered, Xiao Ce discovered his incredible martial arts skills and sharp-shooting abilities, even at his young age—an enemy should not underestimate him.

Xiao Ce grew fonder of Ping'An, but kept his true identity hidden, treating him as a little brother only when no one was watching.

Chu Qiao, not recognizing him due to how much he had grown, saved Ping'An again when the Liang King's royal escorts came to fetch him in front of the Crown Prince.

Ping'An longed to embrace his former master but knew he couldn't, as revealing his identity would jeopardize the Prince. So, he remained silent.

Xiao Ce, with his foxy eyes, turned to the Queen of Liang as he finished his romanticized defense. He passed the ball to his stepmother, asking, "Mother, have you ever been in love?"

The Queen of Liang paused for a long moment before finally answering, "I was. Once."

Her eyes shifted to Emperor Tang, who sat on his throne. Her gaze carried a message—that she was a wife to a husband, not a mere subject to his reign.

Pierced by her look, the Emperor sighed. "Unsack them," he commanded, then turned to the Liang officials and the rest of his court. Finally, casting his vote, he said:

"When the moon chases the stars, and the stars chase the Earth, the Earth has its own world. When the moon travels, the stars twinkle. The Crown Prince of Liang is both unreasonable and wise. But today, he can pass this verdict. Oh Emperor, you must understand, there is more than one path to the mountaintop. Climbing the beautiful walls of Daoming Palace gives me a bird's-eye view that, if I missed, I'd be doomed to this house."

Xiao Ce's foxy smile—anticipated by all—slayed the court when he said, "I'm bored to death. If you behead them all, there will be no prince left to rule this country. I'll step out first and offer my neck, so I don't have to watch them die."

Jaws dropped. Some murmured, "Does Prince Xiao Ce know the consequences of an acquittal?"

Nevertheless, Xiao Ce returned to the palace, unscathed and unharmed. However, as a consequence of violating palace protocols, he would be grounded for thirty days, unable to enter or exit the palace until his punishment was fulfilled. His royal escorts, reduced to the status of slaves, would not be allowed to serve the palace until their sentence was over.

Emperor Tang retracted the decree and put away the seal of execution.

"Thus, it is unnecessary to behead the Crown Prince and his pawns today," the King said. Rising from his seat, he led everyone to the banquet hall.

Xiao Ce, realizing his actions had only delayed punishment rather than securing his father's full pardon, heard his servants cry, "Your Highness, I'd rather die now. Becoming a slave is worse than death."

Chapter 56

Stalemate Marriage

Inside the hotel, a man stepped out of his office, and everyone greeted the young master. Wearing his majestic silver Hanfu, he stood out, looking regal and not at all like a dummy.

At the same time, another man emerged from his room. Everyone was astonished, and one of the hotel staff exclaimed, "Did you see our boss come out in a silver Hanfu?"

"Yes."

"And did you see the other man dressed in a majestic black Hanfu?"

"Yes." Suddenly, the hotel manager found himself dumbfounded when his staff didn't seem to react strangely to the sight of the man who had just passed by in a flash.

He smacked his head and asked, "Did our young master change his clothes that quickly? Are you and our boss from this world?"

"Ouch! That hurts. Did you really have to hit me?"

"Yes, because you're making me look foolish. I asked a question, and you responded with nonsense."

"Oh, I'm sorry, boss! I didn't actually see the young master leave his room."

Meanwhile, Master Zuo Zong (the unassuming owner of the hotel) headed toward the stairs, with Yue Qi following closely behind. Suddenly, an elderly customer tripped on the stairs. Both Zuo and Yue Qi instinctively moved to help the old man. Zuo leaped forward while Yue Qi slid and jumped, and together, they managed to save the old man.

Yuwen Yue had already left the hotel, entrusting all responsibilities to Zuo.

Today was a fortunate day for Master Zuo Zong. He looked at Yue Qi, who had also leaped to help the old man, and was astonished and speechless.

Yue Qi, meanwhile, told the old man, "Next time, be careful so you don't fall."

Zuo Zong kept staring at him and finally said, "Thank you for your concern, but it wasn't necessary."

"The old man shouldn't have traveled alone. He should have had a companion to prevent something like this from happening again."

Yue Qi, feeling corrected but mature in his response, said, "Helping is an act of random kindness without expecting anything in return. It rewards you a hundredfold, and sometimes it helps pay off karmic debts."

Zuo Zong, appearing rigid and disagreeing with his words, simply replied, "Thank you, but I don't need a reminder."

Yue Qi answered, "I agree to disagree. Everyone needs a reminder from time to time."

Yue Qi looked at Zuo, and Zuo turned and left without saying a word.

The day continued as usual, with everyone returning to their routine.

Yuwen Yue, having transformed himself for his final test to his wife, went from being a nobody to someone of great importance. The poor peddler donned white boots, a white fox-fur cape, a jade ornament at his waist, and a beautiful Hanfu fit for a crown prince. He rode alone in a white palanquin, with no horseman. He intended to surprise his wife, but the world seemed upside down. Instead, the Qinghai Crown Prince was in for a surprise. Upon arriving, he found his lodge in total disarray.

Yuwen Yue called for his bird, but the wind carried no response. He was alone.

Investigating the scene, Yuwen Yue carefully searched for any clues, particularly bird feathers. His instincts told him no one was around, but he found small footprints, likely a woman's. There was no sign of a struggle from the bird, but he did notice traces of impressive swordplay.

Yuwen Yue's heart raced when he saw the open door. Two thoughts crossed his mind:

First, his wife and the bird had been abducted.

Second, his wife had taken the bird and left.

As Yuwen Yue approached the door, his ears tingled. The wind chimes barely made a sound, and then suddenly...

Whoosh!

Outside the lodge, two arrows were lodged in a large pine tree. Not surprised, Yuwen Yue saw an auto-crossbow, expertly mounted on the tree, with bamboo arrows at the ready.

Unaware of the invisible trigger, Yuwen Yue stepped on a thin thread.

In an instant, bamboo arrows flew toward his head.

He quickly dodged, turning sideways.

The arrows zipped past him, from left to right.

His calm eyes followed the arrows' trajectory as they hit two objects in front of him.

At the same time, the two objects fell, and the arrows landed in a bed. But what was this? The bed was smashed to pieces.

Yuwen Yue murmured, "Clever wife. A fatal blow and a foretoken to decode."

Yuwen Yue had no clue what this meant. He liked to believe that his wife might have been preparing a surprise for him, just as he had planned for her. The entire lodge seemed rigged with a clockwork mechanism that would unleash seven challenges as soon as Yuwen Yue triggered it.

Yuwen Yue planned to reveal the truth about himself by tearing down the lodge, hoping his wife would obey, just as she had promised earlier.

However, it seemed the house had been entirely reworked with traps and lures.

It appeared that Yuwen Yue, rather than his wife, would have to face the seven-pass challenge. He approached the two objects on the ground.

As soon as he did, he stepped on another tile.

Suddenly, star-shaped darts rained down above his head. He sidestepped, triggering another tile.

Yuwen Yue saw many small stones about to hit his body. He closed his eyes and crawled across the tiled floor until he reached the outside, near the water well.

Unsure of the next traps and lures, Yuwen Yue fetched water from the well. As he did, no one knew what would happen next.

A sword shot into the air. Yuwen Yue quickly pulled out a mini crossbow and fired a bolt attached to a rope. The rope shot out, and he used it to lift himself, avoiding the ground.

He caught the Poe Yue Jian sword as it landed in his left hand, and settled himself by swinging from a tree branch.

With the rope lacking enough tensile strength, Yuwen Yue began sliding down the branch, a creaking sound filling the air.

Unable to control the rope, Yuwen Yue fell toward the ground. He couldn't force himself to enter through the back door.

If he tried again, re-entering through the main door would activate the auto-crossbow, which was still loaded with two arrows ready to shoot at his head.

The main door was now a useless option. Yuwen Yue's focus shifted to the two objects wrapped in a small bamboo stalk.

His eyes were cold, and his pulse quickened. Closing his eyes, he murmured, "Crafty housewife, well-prepared, able to lure her target."

Yuwen Yue felt a surge of pride for his wife's cleverly set course, thinking that Chu Qiao deserved his applause.

With no other option, Yuwen Yue decided to enter through the back door. His senses heightened, ten times sharper than before. Suddenly, the weapons inside the lodge activated. The back door was now open. With few choices left, Yuwen Yue, driven by adrenaline, placed his hands on the ground, inverted his body into a V-shape with his legs to allow the arrows to pass beneath him. For three minutes, he held this position until the arrows were exhausted. Finally, he lowered his legs and took his sword.

"She'll make a shrewd queen, a great asset to the Qinghai Empire," Yuwen Yue mused, unable to help but admire his wife.

Finally, Yuwen Yue entered their bedroom. He looked around, closed his eyes, and said, "This isn't just the work of an angry woman. These cuts are different from the ones I've seen in the bamboo forest. These are the marks of a broken heart and tear-filled eyes."

Yuwen Yue stared at the wreckage of their bed, sensing something was wrong.

He quickly opened his eyes and went to examine the two bamboo stalks, but his instincts told him that choosing either would reveal the truth.

It seemed his wife had left him a hidden message, and whichever bamboo he chose would expose the deeper rift in their marriage.

Yuwen Yue thought to himself that neither bamboo would bring him a happy ending. He picked the bamboo on the left. Inside was a note from Chu Qiao.

But as he lifted the bamboo, another letter fell out. He took it and read it. The bamboo on the right contained Chu Qiao's wedding ring, but the engagement ring was missing.

Yuwen Yue wondered what this could mean.

His wife had taken the Cangwu bird, left her wedding ring, but taken her engagement ring.

Hours passed, and Yuwen Yue, lost in his thoughts, was unaware of time. He held his wife's wedding ring in his hands. If there was one thing he hadn't planned for, it was holding this ring, no longer on her beautiful hand.

Though he had doubted his wife at times, he had never imagined that she would remove her wedding ring.

Yuwen Yue was already burdened by heartache, including the sorrow of his mother's story. With the help of Zao Baocung, he had gathered crucial information, though not everything. Yuwen Yue now partly understood when the Qinghai King had said:

"To my son, I give this sword. My heart has sought something I cannot name. We do not age by years but by the stories we carry. The pain you feel today will soon become your strength for tomorrow. May the bridges I've burned light your way, and may you forgive your father in your heart."

Yuwen Yue pondered this line: "May the bridges I've burned light your way, and may you forgive your father in your heart."

His cold heart grew even colder, turning to ice. He felt numb, unable to feel anything. He realized his father carried many regrets, particularly for not protecting him and his mother from the Queen of Qinghai's envy.

His father, trapped by his royal duties, had sacrificed more than he should have, hoping his lost son would return one day. Meanwhile, the empire had stagnated, with the common people suffering from a lack of progress.

And now, his wife had abandoned him. He thought, "What is this? The woman is walking away from her husband?"

Night had already fallen. Yuwen Yue, out of time and caught off guard by this unexpected personal conflict, was too late to devise a new plan.

He finally climbed into his palanquin and rode back to Xue Fu Street. His heart was heavy, and he was intoxicated with wine meant for two. Now, he drank it all by himself.

Yuwen Yue, drunk and almost in an accident, managed to maneuver his horse at the last second. Desperate to release his emotions, he stepped out of his palanquin and shouted into the midnight air across the mountains: "You don't know what happened! You didn't let me explain! You didn't give me a chance! Why?"

Yuwen Yue didn't know how to cry, but he had already cried a river.

In truth, his heart had sunk to the bottom of a cold lake and died. His inability to reach his wife pierced his soul, adding to the immense pressure of his rulership over the temporarily forsaken Qinghai throne.

While Yan Xun gave up Yanbei for a single night, Yuwen Yue had forsaken the Qinghai throne for countless nights in pursuit of the truth about his mother, hoping to find a way to meet Chu Qiao in the Wei State. Even though she was now the crown princess of Wei, Yuwen Yue didn't know how to quit.

In the end, between Yan Xun and Yuwen Yue, the scales would never balance. There is always one man who carries the heavier weight, the one who puts in genuine effort in the pursuit of truth.

Yuwen Yue's only consolation from this period of separation was finding Yue Qi alive—though he lost Chu Qiao along the way.

Zao Baocung had once told him that Yuwen Yue would one day encounter old companions, but Zao, with his tightly sealed lips, never revealed exactly who it would be.

Yue Qi was the last person Yuwen Yue expected to find alive. He had searched every town in the Wei State while disguised as a peddler, inquiring about his former bodyguards, only to find their remains near the Yuwen Ancestral Temple.

He had also returned to the Yuwen household once, when grain and oil were being delivered to the family's granary. It was the first time he had stepped into the home he once called his own.

Not much had changed at the Greenhills Courtyard, except for its current master, Yuwen Gao, the crippled old man who still longed for his adopted grandson.

Yuwen Yue saw the old man, his wrinkled forehead and eyes that seemed to pierce souls, gazing into the distance.

He watched as servants pushed the old man's chair into the courtyard.

Yuwen Yue wanted to embrace him, to enjoy his company once more, but there was nothing left to say. So, he turned away, missing the opportunity that had been presented to him.

Chu Qiao, dressed in a simple brown peasant outfit with ordinary brown boots and a dark brown deerskin poncho, returned to Master Xie Tai Shan's wooden house.

Night had already fallen, and though it was late summer, the forest air was cold. Chu Qiao greeted him and said, "Master, I've returned and brought this bird with me."

"Don't worry, he's kind, and he knows the Fourth Young Master, Yuwen Yue."

Master Xie Tai Shan, dressed simply in a Hanfu, was startled to see Chu Qiao after such a long absence. His eyes immediately noticed the ring on her finger.

He thought it was an engagement ring but, curious about the bird, asked, "Where did you find this bird?"

Master Xie Tai Shan, as if familiar with the creature, whistled a specific sound.

The bird, recognizing the whistle, instantly flew to Master Xie Tai Shan's shoulder.

Chu Qiao, surprised by the bird's reaction, asked, "You two know each other?"

Master Xie Tai Shan replied, "How could the bird not know the one who took care of its family?"

Chu Qiao, her eyes bright with hope, asked, "This bird originally came from you? It belonged to you?"

"Yes, I marked this bird with a special seal on its feet. It was lost when it was still young, leaving its mother and father behind in sadness," said Master Xie Tai Shan.

"Really? This bird can talk and often says the name of the Fourth Young Master, Yuwen Yue. That's why I took it with me. It camped on our roof and stayed there for a long time."

Master Xie Tai Shan replied, "You said this bird can talk?"

"Yes, it can, though not very often. It also calls me Xinger," Chu Qiao said with a smile.

Master Xie Tai Shan suddenly fell silent. Chu Qiao then asked if she could stay for a while to visit the cenotaph of the Fourth Young Master.

"Yes, you may. But after you left that day, many hunter-gatherers who passed by began offering flowers, following the arrangements you set up at the cenotaph. More visitors started coming frequently, bringing incense, plum flowers, and candles," said Master Xie Tai Shan.

Chu Qiao stared at him blankly for a moment. She hadn't expected this—the cenotaph had become a place for ordinary people to visit and honor the Fourth Young Master's memory, appreciating his noble deeds, which were in stark contrast to the ruthlessness of his cousin, Yuwen Huai.

After a long pause, Chu Qiao finally spoke: "Should I complain, Master Xie Tai Shan? Even a bird doesn't forget its name, and the people he served—what do we really know about the impact he left on them?"

Master Xie Tai Shan smiled and said, "Go, and come back soon. I'll prepare dinner."

Chu Qiao smiled in return. She was holding a basket of plum flowers she had gathered along the way. She had also packed candles and incense sticks to offer at the cenotaph. The Cangwu bird returned to her shoulder, and together, they slowly walked into the cold forest.

The sky was painted with beautiful hues of orange, light blue, and yellow, now gradually overtaken by gray clouds. Early stars twinkled, scattered across the twilight.

Fruit bats flew in swirling motions, stirring memories of Chu Qiao's past life. The forest came alive once again with the sounds of insects. As she walked, holding a candle to light her way, she trailed toward the empty cenotaph.

This chapter is gentle and reflective, filled with a sense of nostalgia and quiet reverence. Chu Qiao's conversation with Master Xie Tai Shan carries an undertone of longing for the past, tempered by hope and the realization of the lasting impact Yuwen Yue left behind. The dialogue is calm and measured, with moments of introspection and gratitude.

The mood becomes more contemplative as Chu Qiao walks through the forest toward the cenotaph. The vivid descriptions of the evening sky, the bats in flight, and the sounds of the forest all contribute to an atmosphere that feels both serene and haunting. The passage evokes a deep sense of connection to nature and the passage of time, as Chu Qiao reflects on her memories and the mark Yuwen Yue left on the world, even in death.

Chapter 57

Mysterious ways

As summer ends, autumn settles between the borders of the Wei and Liang States. The trees begin to change their leaves from green to shades of red, yellow-orange, and brown.

The leaves start to quiver, while flowers bloom, replacing the absent leaves on the tree branches.

The cold wind turns the heat of the sun into a cool breeze, and the forests become moist with small drops of rain.

Yue Qi was trailing through the forest between the Wei and Liang borders when he suddenly bumped into a group of nomadic hunter-gatherers. He asked them, "Where are those flowers for?"

One of the children approached him and said, "We are going to offer them to the empty tomb."

Curious about the empty tomb, Yue Qi asked again, "May I join you?"

"No!" said their leader. "But you may, if you help us carry some of our loads."

Yue Qi, unarmed except for a few concealed weapons hidden in his peasant attire, smiled charmingly and helped an old man carry their baskets. Together, they continued on their way.

When they reached the site, Yue Qi tiptoed just to catch a glimpse of the cenotaph, where people were visiting and offering candles and incense.

He was curious about the name. Yue Qi couldn't come closer due to the flowers surrounding the cenotaph and the narrow path where only one person could walk at a time to offer candles and plum flowers.

Unable to come near, Yue Qi faking its ignorance and asked, "Who is this master that the common people are visiting? Is he an important figure?"

One of the hunters replied, "This is the cenotaph of the Fourth Young Master of the Yuwen household."

"What?" Yue Qi pretended not to hear clearly.

"Yes, you heard it right. I know what you're thinking; we had the same reaction as you at first," said the leader of the hunter-gatherers.

Still confused, Yue Qi asked, "The cenotaph is an empty tomb, but how did someone put it up here on the border?"

"As for who erected the cenotaph, it is unknown. We just saw it here one day."

Still puzzled about why people came so often to pay their respects, Yue Qi asked again, "Why do people keep coming here?"

"After his death, people from all over Chang'An, from small villages to large, came to the Yuwen household. They claimed to be the fruits of the Fourth Young Master's kindness. While he was alive, he secretly helped and saved them in their times of need."

Yue Qi, impressed, continued to listen to the stories.

"Because of his popularity, when he died, the Yuwen household banned any mention of his name or mourning rites for the young master after his final stand on the frozen lake."

An old woman, on the verge of sadness, continued, "Eventually, the Yuwen family disowned him because he was considered a disgrace to the entire Yuwen Clan for laying down his life for someone of humble blood."

"According to circulating rumors, he died defending a Yuwen maidservant. She later joined the King of Yanbei, only to turn her back on the Fourth Young Master. Now, she has betrayed the King of Yanbei again and married the 13th Prince of Wei. She's a gold-digger, chasing after one favor after another," the old woman bitterly explained.

Yue Qi, remaining silent, did not react. He knew that the circulating stories were untrue.

In reality, the rumors had served a purpose at the time, but not anymore. Despite being affected by them, Yue Qi knew that Yuwen Yue was still alive.

The stories about his impulsive actions on the frozen lake were not accurate. He had been there, putting his life on the line.

Another old woman, dressed in peasant clothes, added, "The Fourth Young Master of the Yuwen household inspired us with his story of love for the fortunate maidservant.

Though the end was tragic, I've always thought he was the most romantic among the cold masters of the Yuwen household. Although the heir to the Eyes of God was rarely seen in public, he had a soft spot for the small and poor. Yet he never showed his love while he was alive.

When he died, the love he had for the poor became even stronger. That's why people travel so far to offer incense at his empty tomb."

"And what about the Fourth Young Master's bodyguards?" Yue Qi cautiously probed, testing if any news of his comrades had survived.

"All of them are dead, except for one—if the rumors are true."

Yue Qi, knowing the truth, asked, "Do you know who this bodyguard is?"

"They say his name is Yue Liu."

Yue Qi silently confirmed that his name had already been crossed out from the book of the living. He was likely presumed dead after spending two years on Kong Sang Mountain.

He became a eunuch and taught at the orphan houses where Prince Xiao Ce had been secretly raising children from the victims of war.

A woman, wearing a maidservant's skirt, covered her face with an indigo scarf. With a bird on her shoulder, she passed by to offer incense and plum flowers at the cenotaph.

At first, Yue Qi did not see her face, but upon noticing the Yuwen parrot, he realized, as soon as the woman offered her candles and flowers, that it was Chu Qiao.

Yue Qi hid from the nomadic people to observe Chu Qiao. Afterward, he followed her until he discovered where Chu Qiao was residing.

A man in his late fifties was smoking outside one of the wooden houses. Yue Qi thought, "This is a strategic location, and it would be impossible for outsiders to camp here. This is the Liang royal guards' barracks, about twenty kilometers from Daoming Palace." How could Yue Qi not know?

Chu Qiao lived in another wooden house that looked like a barracks. The man smoking, with his feet crisscrossed, sat in a chair, enjoying life as if there was nothing to worry about in the world.

Yue Qi sat for a while, drew a map, and settled into his spy location. He was about to leave when, suddenly, the smoking man was standing behind him.

With calm eyes and an expressionless face, the man looked at Yue Qi as if he were harmless. Yue Qi tried hard to recall where he had seen this face before.

"You have no idea who your father is…"

The man spoke in a low, gentle voice, without any hint of violence, even though he had caught Yue Qi spying on their barracks.

Caught in the act, Yue Qi couldn't react or say anything, but he didn't feel threatened. Trying to fake his way out, he said, "I'm lost in the woods. I came with the hunter-gatherers, visited the empty tomb, and now I can't find my way home."

"Some parts of that are true, but most of it is a cover-up," the man said, puffing his tobacco.

"I'll tell you what really happened. You followed her, and you're familiar with the bird."

Stunned by what the man said, Yue Qi asked, "Who are you?"

Suddenly, Master Xie Tai Shan drew his sword. Yue Qi, stunned again, said, "A dull sword?"

"Who said it's dull?"

Master Xie Tai Shan sat beside him and took out a triangular lime rock, beginning to sharpen the blade of his sword.

Yue Qi, never having felt fear like this before, asked, "Where's the animal you're going to butcher?"

"Did I say I'm going to butcher an animal?"

Master Xie's eyes remained calm and expressionless. Suddenly, Yue Qi remembered Yuwen Yue. This was the same expression his master had. Though Yue Qi didn't feel threatened, he experienced an irrational fear of the unknown, of the unpredictable moves of this master with the dull sword.

All of a sudden, a group of barbaric men surrounded them. Master Xie stood up and walked away from Yue Qi.

Yue Qi froze like ice, glued to his spot, and could only hear the sounds of blades and axes clashing, away from his sight. Taking the opportunity, Yue Qi fled the area to report to his master.

In the middle of the bloodbath, Master Xie noticed Yue Qi fleeing.

After severing the last neck without even glancing at his opponent, blood splattered across Master Xie's face. His fierce but calm eyes finally settled, restoring peace to the environment.

Occasionally, these lost barbaric men would attack this part of the Daoming Palace. But as long as Master Xie Tai Shan lived, he patrolled the border between Wei and Liang.

By his own prerogative, he often restricted anyone from walking this ground. Though this was the most vulnerable path, it was also the hardest to track and navigate. No one who came here survived—except for the lucky few like Yue Qi, Chu Qiao, and the old lady from Liang.

Master Xie Tai Shan loved nature and was a bird enthusiast. He had spent his entire life caring for various birds.

One of Master Xie's favorite birds is the Cangwu bird, or "parrot" as it's known to Westerners. In his own language, he called these parrots "Cangwu," with "Cang" meaning to conceal and "Wu" meaning a thing. Over time, these Cangwu birds, an intelligent species capable of mimicking human sounds thanks to their sharp memory, earned a reputation. Ironically, they only revealed things rather than concealing them.

This became a problem for Master Xie, as the birds exposed him to various attacks in the past instead of helping him hide. To solve this, he built large birdcages and crossbred them with other birds, creating mixed breeds. However, he intentionally preserved one purebred family of parrots. Unfortunately, he lost its male offspring, but upon seeing Chu Qiao, he suspected she had taken back the lost bird—the only male of its kind—while he was left with only the female, which he had kept from interbreeding with other species.

Reflecting on his past, Master Xie recalled the haunting events of his village's destruction. He and his distant cousin, a fellow Taichi master, were the only survivors when their small village near the northeastern Wei border was burned to the ground.

These small villages served as a hidden first line of defense against barbarian tribes, protecting the nomadic empire's herds, cattle, and especially their prized warhorses, bred on the cold plains.

The Great Summer Dynasty, never forgetting its nomadic roots, surrounded itself with blacksmiths and sword makers. These small community barriers acted as a strategic defense, handling tribal conflicts that didn't require the Emperor's direct attention.

Any barbaric men daring to step onto their land were met with fierce resistance, often losing their lives to the brutal villagers before even reaching the vast grasslands or the fortified walls of the Wei Empire.

Setting fire to one of these villages would immediately alert the Eyes of God through a mechanical communication system that ran underground.

This system would quickly notify the masters of the Eyes of God, allowing them to make wise decisions for the empire.

Master Xie, one of the best swordsmen and blade masters who had served Wei's brightest military officials, gave up his promising future to save a baby prince.

That night, after he bravely breached Yuwen Hao's courtyard—a mission that was essentially a one-way ticket to death—he awoke to a different world. Though he thought he had been reincarnated into another time and place, the truth was far stranger.

A group of Liang soldiers, along with their vice commander, found his nearly lifeless body in a forest. Dressed in disguise and not in his official Wei soldier uniform, Xie Tai Shan was mistaken for dead.

One of the Liang soldiers took pity on him and brought him to the vice commander, a man who followed the Dao (the Way) and believed in helping others. The vice commander decided to save Xie Tai Shan, reasoning that someday he could contribute to the common good and teach his men a valuable lesson about not leaving someone in need behind.

Just when Master Xie thought his life was over, it flourished under the protection of Liang. He was taken to the Liang capital, where he witnessed its rise to glory. He saw the construction of Daoming Palace, its enormous courtyards, and the Li Garden, one of the most beautiful gardens, also known as the Pear Garden.

He was also invited to join the state examinations held annually by the Liang Emperor, where he met foreign scholars and dignitaries, including Japanese princes, Turkish and Indian scholars, and others from neighboring countries.

Southern Liang became known as a center of beauty, poetry, and culture, attracting foreigners who were not permitted to enter the conservative Great Summer Dynasty. These foreigners came to enjoy the arts, culture, and treasures of the Tang Dynasty.

Master Xie had never appreciated life more than during his time at Daoming Palace, under the rule of Emperor Tang of Southern Liang.

Eventually, his swordsmanship skills were discovered, and the Emperor passed a decree incorporating Jian swordsmanship into the Liang Imperial Army, strengthening the eight prefectures surrounding the empire.

The Southern Liang Empire followed the Imperial state government, but the Emperor also developed a central and regional government, creating a semi-democratic atmosphere. In reality, however, all power still lay in the hands of the Emperor, with guidance from the prime minister.

After 25 years of service, Master Xie retired and requested a piece of land, which was granted by the Emperor's seal.

He retreated to a secluded area on the Liang border, close to his homeland, a land he had not crossed since that fateful night when he narrowly escaped death.

It was already afternoon when Master Xie, back to his smoking habit, sat in his favorite chair, thinking of Yue Qi—a lost nephew from his distant cousin, the renowned Taichi master, who was the mother of Yue Qi and his six brothers.

Master Xie had met Yue Qi's father when he traveled to Liang as an envoy for the Japanese royal prince, who came to study fine arts, poetry, theater, and architecture.

Yue Qi's father, a Japanese assassin and spy, never returned to his Chinese wife and six children after taking Yue Qi with him to Japan.

Years later, the father and son met Master Xie again. To Master Xie's delight, he saw young Yue Qi, but soon discovered that Yue Qi's father had been forced to take a Japanese wife as a gift from his lord. They had another son, whom they named Zuo Zong.

Yue Qi had been given a Japanese name, Zuo Shan, and was too young to remember his Chinese mother, the Taichi master, and Master Xie's distant cousin. The only two survivors from the small village that had been destroyed by fire had their childhood memories together, but nothing more to linger on as a happy memory.

After that meeting, Master Xie never heard from Yue Qi's father again, nor did he see Yue Qi until now.

As he sat smoking, Master Xie's thoughts wandered back to his golden childhood. He recalled a past love, a girl who possessed the power of TaiChi. As he trained to master the sword, she trained to master the wind.

Later, he learned that after his father took her to the Woolong Mountains, she returned to their village as the wife of a foreigner and the mother of seven sons.

Master Xie's heart ached. The girl who had captured his heart had quietly settled into married life, and he had missed his chance to confess his unrequited love.

Meanwhile, Yue Qi was running through the woods toward Xue Fu Street when suddenly a black ninja set a trap that caught Yue Qi's foot, leaving him hanging upside down, swinging back and forth.

The black ninja, his face covered except for his calm eyes, looked at Yue Qi, who knew his life wasn't in danger.

Pressed for time, Yue Qi tried to deceive him, saying, "What do you want from me?"

As he reached into his dress for the map, his jade pendant accidentally dropped.

The black ninja walked toward the pendant to pick it up. In a moment of panic, Yue Qi angrily shouted, "Don't even think about touching it!"

The black ninja paused, thinking to himself, "If he's the one, he'll pass this test."

The ninja then threw a star dart to cut the rope. Yue Qi, using the star dart, swung himself toward a tree branch like Tarzan.

He landed on the branch, using the star dart to cut the rope from his foot.

Meanwhile, the black ninja, distracted for a moment, continued walking toward the pendant.

Yue Qi, losing his temper, issued a second warning: "You clearly don't understand when a warning has been given."

Peng!

The black ninja became temporarily deaf, and Yue Qi stabbed him in the chest with the star dart.

The black ninja, feeling the sharp pain, began to speak, saying, "I agree to disagree." He then passed out, still holding the jade pendant in his hand.

Chapter 58

Watchers of the Night

Yue Qi held the head of the black ninja, who looked pale but was breathing heavily. He removed the black ninja's mask and finally revealed his face. Yue Qi quickly tore open his clothes and examined the wound on his chest, where he found the same jade pendant like his, serving as a lifesaver for the young black ninja.

Yue Qi finally remembered the young brother he had left 12 years ago at Shangxi Port, Luoyang Shaolin Temple. How could he forget the jade he had given to his brother?

With no other choice but to save his brother, Yue Qi decided to turn back to Master Xie's wooden house. Zuo Zong's wound was not deep, but it still needed first aid to prevent infection.

After two days at Master Xie's, Chu Qiao left the Cangwu bird with him and said, "Master Xie, I cannot tell you the stories you would like to hear yet, but please take care of this bird for me. I will come back for it when everything is settled."

Master Xie, with his narrow eyes, did not object and took the bird. His calm expression reassured Chu Qiao that everything would be alright.

Chu Qiao, dressed in a half-hooded poncho and an ordinary dress, set off with uncertainty in her heart. As she listened to her horse's hooves echoing through the cold forest, she couldn't help but think about what she had done by leaving her husband's lodge.

Chu Qiao had never been so bold and certain of one thing: to return to the world of endless war, don her Xuili General uniform, and show the world who the true victor was. But at the same time, she thought of crushing Wei and bringing about its downfall by claiming the Wei crown princess position and ousting Xiao Yu's puppet.

She knew her husband had been seduced and eventually fell into their traps.

Ra Yue didn't even bother to tell her or be honest, merely asking her to leave so she wouldn't find out what had happened. No further explanation was needed.

She smirked and said, "Well, guess what? You will regret what you've done! Soon, you'll know who your wife truly is!"

After crying alone in the cold forest, Chu Qiao picked herself up. Though her marriage had not been consummated, she still felt betrayed and used by Ra Yue.

She had many questions about him, particularly about his brother Yue Qi, who resembled Master Zuo. But she never gave herself the chance to truly know Ra Yue, despite his claim that she would be with him for a lifetime.

During her brief stay with Master Xie, she frequently visited the Fourth Young Master's tomb, learning intriguing stories and rumors about the Cenotaph of Yuwen Yue.

She felt anger towards the rumors in Wei regarding a maidservant, Xinger, whom people seemed to associate with Chu Qiao, now the Wei crown princess.

She believed these stories were false because the real Chu Qiao stood right in front of them, yet no one recognized her, and she did not introduce herself.

She listened quietly to their tales, and they reminded her of past memories. Like autumn leaves falling, her memories returned, and even the bird on her shoulder couldn't forget Yuwen Yue and Xinger.

Chu Qiao hadn't been the same since leaving Ra Yue. The weight of her emotions, combined with the stories she had heard, made her begin to believe that she was Xinger—the reason behind the Fourth Young Master's untimely death. She listened to the story repeatedly.

Somehow, it was this tragic tale that drew people to Yuwen Yue's cenotaph. The common folk were inspired by the belief that an esteemed aristocrat like him could fall in love with a humble maidservant, demonstrating his different nature compared to others in the aristocracy. He was known to treat his slaves in Greenhills Courtyard with unusual kindness.

In contrast, his infamous cousin Yuwen Huai, though approachable, dealt harshly with his slaves. However, the cold and distant Fourth Young Master was reclusive and rarely seen in public, yet he occasionally listened to his slaves' requests and granted favors, as he had done for Xinger.

Chu Qiao felt the reality of it all, desperate to end her sorrow and learn more about Xinger's connection to the Fourth Young Master. She asked herself,Am I really Xinger?

Once again, standing in the cold forest, she closed her eyes and, using her Hing Ba Na powers, the ability to accept or decline, she decided to go back in time to when the Fourth Young Master was still alive.

The flower tattoo on her back was once again beginning to disappear in a flicker of light, a sign that she was giving up her immortality and powers to regain her past memories.

Suddenly, Viper shouted, "No! Mimi Gongzhu, come back!"

Chu Qiao snapped back to the present, and all the flickering light froze, suspended like shattered red-glowing pieces.

As the floating shards hung in front of her eyes, she opened them.

In an instant, like a swirling motion surrounding her, Chu Qiao was transported back to the last stand at the frozen lake, granting her the wish to relive all her memories with Yuwen Yue. Vividly, she watched the scene unfold, recognizing Yuwen Yue.

Her teardrops fell.

Tonight, Chu Qiao realized she was the real Xinger, and the face of the man who had haunted her nightmares finally became clear. It was Yuwen Yue, the Fourth Young Master.

Then, the red, broken pieces of the Higanbana flower began to change color, turning black.

Slowly, they settled on her back.

Chu Qiao was losing her life, unable to control the flower's power.

She was dying, and the afterlife was waiting. Her pulse slowed, and then her heartbeat stopped.

Chu Qiao had already emptied herself of her mortal essence and lost the flow of "qi" in her body.

Viper acted quickly. She grabbed the last piece of the Higanbana flower that was settling on Chu Qiao's back and, cutting her own wrist, let her blood drip into it.

Suddenly, Chu Qiao's life force returned. Her pulse slowly revived until it reached her heart.

The Higanbana flower turned red again.

Her "qi" flow was restored, traveling upward as she regained her breath, with Viper still holding the last piece of the Higanbana flower.

Finally, Viper blew gently, and the beautiful red petals engraved themselves onto Chu Qiao's body.

The secret princess was revived, and her body began to glow in the pitch-black night.

Viper's power, bestowed upon her when she first entered this world and inhabited a mortal body, now transformed Chu Qiao into her true nature—one of the most powerful underworld spies. Her abilities surfaced, instinctively, as she helped Mimi Gongzhu.

Viper hadn't even known her power could do this until she used her blood to save Chu Qiao, suspending the last piece of the Higanbana flower before it could fully settle into Mimi Gongzhu's back.

Viper approached Chu Qiao to check her pulse. Having passed the dangerous flatline, she lifted the secret princess, placing her on her horse, and they rode back to the Xuili army.

Not so far, Yue Qi arrived at Master Xie's wooden house, carrying his brother, Zuo Zong, on his back. In a desperate whisper, he called out to the smoking old man, "I came back. You can kill me after, but please, before you do, help me save my brother."

Master Xie, who had anticipated this night, waited on a tree branch like a bird, then descended to the forest floor. Looking at Yue Qi, he said, "Only a fool flees and comes back here. You saw what happened earlier; no one leaves this place alive."

Yue Qi, sensing Master Xie's anger for fleeing earlier, begged, "I know now, but my brother is with me, and he is wounded. You can kill me afterward—just help him, please."

Tears filled Yue Qi's eyes as he knelt in front of Master Xie, gently laying Zuo down to rest. Although Yue Qi had temporarily stopped the bleeding, the wound needed antiseptic to prevent infection.

Master Xie, not wanting to be deceived again but intent on teaching Yue Qi a lesson, was about to strike him when a strong, cold presence countered the attack with a sword.

Master Xie felt the resistance, the cold wind blowing against his face as a powerful force disrupted his meridians, rendering him unable to strike back.

The man in the brown hood, made of canvas material, stood coldly, his eyes fixed not on Master Xie, but on the two men. "Master, I beg you, we need your urgent help. Please..." His cold eyes then shifted to Zuo's wound, inspecting how long it had been exposed. The sight of the injury caught Master Xie's attention, and he asked, "How long has he been stabbed?"

Yue Qi, not minding the stranger's cold but somehow familiar presence, answered, "Maybe five hours."

Master Xie, with calm eyes, stood still but knew the wound was at risk of infection, which could lead to complications.

Sheathing his sword, he took the pale young man's body into his wooden house.

The two men followed behind, and Yue Qi sensed something familiar about the cold man beside him but couldn't place who he was.

Master Xie calmly placed Zuo Zong on a wooden table, and just as he had done for Chu Qiao the night she was shot with a poisoned arrow, he treated Zuo using only fresh, natural medicines.

Master Xie's skill in cutting the wound, pouring the antiseptic, and stuffing herbs inside it provided a fascinating sight for the two onlookers.

Yue Qi couldn't contain his curiosity and remarked, "Amazing!"

The cold man beside him, with a measured tone, added, "He wraps it with the precision of an alchemist, prolonging life in the way of a Daoist master."

This second-level treatment was simple, yet it had the potential to extend life for fifty years or more.

Master Xie was suddenly struck by what he heard, the phrase "Daoist master's way" echoing in his mind.

Without warning, Master Xie unsheathed his sword and waved it in front of the cold man. Staring at him intently, he demanded, "Tianshi Dao, reveal yourself!"

The cold man, unable to hide his identity any longer, slowly removed his brown hood, revealing his face.

Yue Qi was shocked and immediately bowed before him, while Master Xie stood frozen, his icy stare fixed on the man. His sword slipped from his hand, dropping in the cold man's presence.

Chapter 59

Blacklisted Empire

Two horses stood outside the Xuili main gate. Viper waved her red jade pass, and the Xuili guards eventually opened the gate to welcome their General. Viper warned the guard on duty not to spread the news, threatening severe punishment if they did.

The duty guard, trembling with fear, nodded as goosebumps crawled across his skin. The two horses slowly walked forward until they reached the General's Quarters.

After a year since General Chu's disappearance during Yuan Song's breach and abduction, the Yanbei General returned to the perimeters of Xuili Mountain. She rested her tired soul and reflected on her true self.

This time, when Chu Qiao rediscovered who she really was, she remained under their secret custody.

Chu Qiao let time pass—about a year after that night when she nearly lost her life while uncovering her past memories—and Viper came to save her.

Facing the cold and calm waters of the river in Xuili Mountain, Chu Qiao asked Viper, "Why did you hold one piece of the Higanbana flower?"

Viper squinted and replied, "Because if I hadn't cut my wrist to save your nearly lifeless body, you would have been lost forever. That flower on your back would have grown until it consumed your mortal self and turned you to dust…"

Viper paused, stepped beside Chu Qiao, threw a stone into the river, and continued, "If that had happened, red Higanbana flowers would have grown where you last saw each other's faces, and the frozen lake where you parted would have turned into a field of Higanbana flowers. They would grow and remain there forever, marking the place where love died. In your next life, your paths would never cross again."

Chu Qiao realized, "Such a sad story. I'm glad you came and saved me."

Viper, looking at the calm river, did not tell the secret princess that underworld spies are forbidden from transfusing their blood. Doing so weakens their powers, strips them of their immortality, and turns them human, capable of dying.

This was the fate of Trailkoya, who sacrificed himself, spilling his blood to save Chu Qiao, the leader of the Wind and Cloud Decree. Trailkoya lost his godlike powers, became human, and eventually died at the hands of Yuwen Hao.

Underworld spies regain the full extent of their powers upon the setting of the moonrise in the darkest skies.

Yuwen Yue rode in a palanquin carried by eight men. Thick canvas curtains covered the windows at the back and sides, while a thin veil hung in front of him, partially obscuring His Highness's face. His face was further concealed by a heavy metal mask. He was making his first official royal visit to the King of the distant eastern tribes to settle disputes along their borders.

The distant eastern tribe had been reported slaughtering smaller tribes and becoming barbaric, setting fire to villages where peaceful tribes suffered heavy losses, and innocent blood was shed.

Zuo and Yue Qi flanked him on the left and right, completing his envoy. Their presence had enabled him to win battles across Ximeng's vast lands, uniting people of different tongues and tribes.

A year had passed since he left the Wei-Liang borders, where he had unexpectedly reunited with his mother's brother, Master Xie Tai Shan.

This reunion filled in the missing pieces of Yuwen Yue's story, revealing how he came to the Yuwen household. It also uncovered a long-forgotten connection between Yue Qi and Zuo Zong, who were like blood brothers.

Yuwen Yue became one of the happiest men, as many aspects of his life came into clarity—except for his still-gloomy heart.

He even saw his cenotaph surrounded by plum flowers, incense, and tea candles offered by the people of Wei, which warmed his heart.

Yuwen Yue also heard various stories, some good and some bad. However, the people, unaware of the Fourth Young Master's face, didn't realize they were speaking directly to him.

He stayed at the Wei-Liang border for nearly three months, enjoying his uncle's company. Together, they fished, bred birds, shared bonfire nights, trekked the snowy mountains, and simply enjoyed their time together—like a father and son reunited.

No amount of joyful tears could express the emotions shared between these two souls who met at the perfect time. His uncle was the only family member from his mother's side, and they even practiced each other's martial arts. Yuwen Yue remained there, hoping for a sign of his wife, but every night, he could only wish upon a star.

Master Xie also revealed that Chu Qiao had stayed with him and left behind the Cangwu bird. Yuwen Yue could not have been happier to reunite with the bird that had been his spark of hope during his darkest nights.

The Yuwen parrot had also bred a family of five baby parrots next to their mother.

Yue Qi asked Master Xie if he could take one of the parrots, but Zuo, not being an animal lover, declined. Instead, Zuo taught the three men how to meditate in the Buddhist way, though Master Xie, a Daoist, sometimes objected.

Yue Qi grew up in the household of Mohist Masters, often making fun of his brother. Yuwen Yue was also raised and taught by Mohist Masters. He remained cold and distant, though he was later introduced to the teachings of Confucius in the Woolong Mountains.

This occurred after the frozen lake tragedy. From time to time, Yuwen Yue would offer sage advice.

Yuwen Yue declined the King's rulership for valid reasons, explaining to his father that he had not yet proven to the palace ministers that he deserved the position. Unlike the other princes of Qinghai, Yuwen Yue was in no rush to claim the throne. Instead, he chose to retain his status as crown prince, the heir to the Qinghai throne.

General Bali turned to Princess Zama and handed her a paper snow. After a few moments of staring at the letters, the princess watched as the words began to fade. Tears filled her eyes, and she gazed at the palace walls, helpless and overwhelmed, her defenses frozen and shattered.

Since the night of the tributary hunt, Prince Zaru had been left in Xuili Mountain as a prisoner of war and was later transferred to the Yan Palace prison grounds, while two of his blackguard spies were imprisoned underground.

There had been no news of whether Prince Zaru was still alive. However, in the letter Princess Zama received, written as an ode, it was mentioned:

Forced to walk under the enemy's painful ground
Tormented beneath the blazing sun
I eat like a mouse trapped in a cat's snare
Drinking the enemy's eternal wrath
Yet day and night, I remain cold and forgotten
Wishing death would come, but it eludes me like the morning mist
Let my name be forgotten, for I am a disgrace to the blood of heroes
Who fought for the Great Summer's fall.

"I can't wait any longer," Princess Zama said in a voice filled with anger and melancholy. "It has been a year, and we've done nothing. The 7th prince of Wei must act. As one of their protectorate states, a trade must be opened. We must learn what the Rebel King wants and see if we can negotiate."

General Bali responded, "The blackguards successfully planted bombs around the Meilin border pass, but I'm not sure why the demolition plan failed."

Dressed in her tribal Hanfu, with her beautiful, melancholic eyes, Princess Zama replied, "On the night we spied on Xiao Yu and Crown Prince Xiao Ce, I saw the blood-red eyes of a spy. Do you know what that means?"

General Bali's face grew tense. "The underworld spies are active again?"

Princess Zama stepped outside the palace courtyard, gazing at the dark sky and moon. "When I was young, my father took me to a faraway kingdom. We stayed there for months, and I saw a camp of extraordinary children with different powers. I fought one of them in a bow and arrow competition, and I lost because they cracked my arm. I was humiliated, and everyone laughed at me because I couldn't win against the girl with the sand drizzle powers.

"Suddenly, another girl came forward. I saw her back, marked with a red flower tattoo, and everyone fell silent. Even those who had bullied me didn't dare to challenge her. She took my arm, and the pain vanished. She encouraged me to try again, and I hit the mark. After that, everyone respected me. But when I went to find her, she was gone, and I never saw her again."

"So, the underworld spies truly exist, Your Highness?" General Bali asked.

"Yes, General. They are real, but it's nearly impossible to trace them. They leave no evidence, and when they strike, it's either them or their target who dies," Princess Zama explained.

"Do you mean the underworld spies are protecting Yanbei?" General Bali questioned further.

"Just like Luo He, the leader of the Wind and Cloud Decree, who died for it."

"I've heard that story before," General Bali said thoughtfully. "Luo He was hanged in the Wei garrison prison. The underworld spies tried to rescue her, but was it her daughter who came to save her?"

"That's the mystery I've been trying to understand for years. Her daughter did come, but it was too late. Zhan Ziyu, the leader of the Afterlife camp, ambushed Luo He. Her daughter fought valiantly, but the battle was fierce. I was there that day. It was autumn, and I remember the air was heavy with power. The rain wouldn't stop, and suddenly, thunder and gravity seemed to defy the laws of nature. The raindrops froze in midair, as though time itself had halted. Sharp ice floated before crashing to the ground, striking everyone—but no one died. The Afterlife camp spies learned a lesson that day they will never forget, including their leader, Zhan Ziyu, who was paralyzed."

Princess Zama's gaze returned to the moon.

"Did someone save you from the rain of sharp ice, Your Highness?" General Bali asked.

"Do you mean the Kungfu of ice? Yes, Zaru did," Zama replied, her voice filled with emotion as she thought of her brother, whose fate remained unknown.

"What do you plan to do now, Your Highness?" General Bali asked, trying to anticipate her next move.

"I'm planning to ask for a staged fight," Zama answered resolutely.

"That's a gamble, Your Highness," General Bali warned.

"In exchange for Zaru, I will do it," Zama declared, her mind made up.

"And if you lose?" General Bali pressed, considering the risks.

"I won't lose. If the Shen Jin Emperor supports me, we can deploy the black seal inside Yanbei," Zama replied confidently, revealing her strategy.

"Are you suggesting that we..." General Bali started, but Zama silenced him with a gesture.

"I will see my brother, even if it costs me my life," she said with steely determination.

"It's a zero chance of getting back alive," General Bali said, concerned.

"Not if I have the underworld spy who saved me before. This will be the perfect opportunity to expose them. I know they are watching me, and for some reason, they don't harm me when they do," Zama replied, sounding certain.

"When do we begin?" General Bali asked.

"We will start this fight under the winter's moon, when human strength is at its weakest, and the Blackguards' powers are at their peak. The underworld spies will break free from their shadows. We shall see who will stand until the last breath," Zama said, her eyes fixed on the crescent moon above.

Zama turned to her bodyguard and said, "Shi Da, take this letter to the Shen Jin Emperor."

Then she faced General Bali and added, "Uncle General, please keep this a secret. I hope you will persuade Father to agree while we wait for their response."

The blackguard spies had to pause their black seal plan when Prince Zaru was taken hostage, causing a delay. As a result, it did not prevent the union between Yanbei and the Liang state.

Meanwhile, the Shen Jin Emperor changed his course of action. He lifted the black seal, relying instead on the capture of Yan Xun's Tiger General, Chu Qiao. The Emperor believed Chu Qiao would eventually ascend to Wei's throne.

For the Emperor, this situation deepened the already painful wound Yan Xun had inflicted upon him.

Yan Xun decided that death would be too merciful for Prince Zaru. Instead, he subjected him to corporal punishment. One day, Yan Xun gave the townsfolk of Yanbei a spectacle to witness in the middle of the giant soccer courtyard. The Black Prince Zaru was forced to crawl on his knees, his head tied to the prime war horse of Yanbei.

The Black Prince endured excruciating pain as the skin on his knees was stripped away, leaving raw flesh exposed to the dirty, grassy ground. Every citizen of Yanbei mocked him, spat on him, and ridiculed him until his face became unrecognizable in the filth. Eventually, the Prince passed out from the pain and humiliation.

Yan Xun ordered his servants to drag him back to Yan's garrison prison.

Chapter 60

Phoenix Crown Empire

The sound of horse hooves woke the Liang Palace grounds as the Turkish Prince's envoy finally announced its arrival at one of the five gates of the majestic Daoming Palace.

The Daoming Palace stands apart from all the palaces in China. It was constructed by the current Empress of Liang, the second wife of Emperor Tang.

The Turkish Prince occasionally visits the Tang Empire to enhance trade and strengthen political relations.

As a token of hospitality, the Chinese palace ministers warmly greet the visitors, and the military hosts an event on the Olympic grounds for one of their favorite games: horseback riding, or Polo as they call it.

The Emperor of Liang sat on his throne-like chair, with Prince Xiao Ce on his right and the Turkish Prince on his left. The Turkish Prince had deep green eyes, exuded strong male charisma, and carried the scent of wood. His face, covered with a beard, made him appear even more masculine, accentuating his well-defined square jaw and small white teeth. He carried two-bladed swords at his waist and wore a thick gold medal around his head.

To complete his appearance, he wore a white A-cut robe and gold sandals. His arms were adorned with half-cast gold medals, and his waist was belted with gold, embellished with some of Persia's finest jewels.

Xiao Ce felt overshadowed in his metropolitan attire, especially as the Liang palace maids couldn't take their eyes off the Turkish Prince, who, feeling confident and flirtatious, placed his hand on his jaw, emphasizing his perfect lips and jawline. The palace maids could hardly contain themselves.

The maids continued to steal glances at the Turkish Prince, and giggles could be heard from the group. The Turkish Prince responded with playful looks, which only increased their admiration for the foxy and flirtatious prince.

However, a moment of insecurity crept into the air, and the Liang Crown Prince's foxy eyes shifted from the Turkish Prince to the palace maids. Their whispering giggles stopped immediately. Xiao Ce's narrowed eyes gave the impression of anger, but the expression only made him appear more handsome. He grabbed a gigantic fan made of cat fur, which almost covered his entire body.

Using the fan to cool himself, Xiao Ce accidentally inhaled some of the fur and began to choke. The palace maids, now concerned, watched in alarm as the prince struggled with the fur.

Noticing Xiao Ce's discomfort, the Turkish Prince asked, "Is something wrong?"

Xiao Ce, regaining his composure, replied with a poker face, "Nothing is wrong, only your flirty face."

The Turkish Prince, perplexed, touched his jaw and responded, "You mean my bearded, fancy face?"

Xiao Ce, now coughing again but hiding it from the Turkish Prince, said, "Will you excuse me? I need to take my morning tea to rejuvenate my body and prevent hairs from growing around my handsome face."

The Turkish Prince, amused, nodded to Xiao Ce and returned his flirtatious attention to one of Xiao Ce's palace maids, much to Xiao Ce's annoyance.

The Prince, wearing his long yellow floral robes, stood up and walked away slowly, while the palace maids threw rose petals into the air and cleared the wind in his path with diffusers.

Emperor Tang chuckled as his crown prince left the scene, as he often complained that this dusty game was not his "cup of tea." With a raised hand, Emperor Tang officially signaled the start of the game.

The Turkish envoy was known throughout many empires for never losing a game, always emerging victorious. But this time, Emperor Tang wanted to test their reputation. His palace ministers had prepared twenty-four Chinese horsemen.

It was said that the ratio to fight Turkish players was 1:4—one Turkish polo player was the equivalent of four Chinese horsemen.

Emperor Tang intended to prove this theory wrong, so he chose four weaker men to begin the game, strategically positioning them to test the Turkish team.

As the game progressed, the Turkish players demonstrated their superior skill, making it evident who the professionals were. The starting Chinese four couldn't score even once.

At the midway point, the score pole—tallying points by flags—indicated the Turkish team's impending victory. Emperor Tang had to admit defeat and decided to reward the Turkish visitors with ten taels of Li gold, shaped like a dragon's head, for their unbeatable horsemen.

This defeat meant that Emperor Tang needed to train his horsemen further, as even Li Ce, unable to withstand the dust and blows, was soon outmatched. One by one, the Chinese players fell to the ground.

However, in the final round, just when the Turkish Prince was savoring the scent of victory, a prime warhorse slowly marched onto the Liang Palace grounds. Three Chinese players, riding their prime warhorses, followed closely behind.

Riding the lead horse was a young man in his early thirties. He wore a blue cape and golden armor, his face concealed by a gleaming gold mask. His long, ink-black hair was tied at the back, and his cold, handsome face commanded attention.

The Turkish players, fatigued but still determined, watched as this new group of players entered the field, seemingly ready to challenge their endurance.

Emperor Tang, spotting the masked man from afar, stood up and clapped, as though rekindling hope for a chance to win the match.

The Turkish Prince, still confident in his men, began to drink the early wine served at the small royal table. But as he saw the masked man sweep across the polo ground and score the first point for the Chinese team, he started coughing in disbelief.

With another swing of the mallet, the man in golden armor leaped and controlled his warhorse, knocking down a Turkish player who accidentally collided with him and fell off his horse.

Another flag was added to the Chinese score pole. The match dragged on as the lead shifted to the Chinese team, and Emperor Tang frequently rose to cheer for his team. Meanwhile, Xiao Ce reappeared, now dressed in sports attire that looked more appropriate for an archery match than for polo.

As the Turkish team fought to regain the lead, the game intensified. Horse hooves kicked up dust, blinding the Turkish players, but their determination remained unshaken. Even though another Turkish player fell, their resolve kept them going.

The Turkish Prince, noticing Xiao Ce's approach, scoffed playfully and teased him like an older brother, "What happened to your lovely face?" He laughed loudly, poking fun at Xiao Ce's dirty, disheveled appearance.

Xiao Ce, thinking he could outdo the Turkish Prince's style, had attempted a tribal hero look. He wore a black band around his head with a black jade in the center, and his foxy eyes were accompanied by smudged black ink on his cheeks. But instead of looking like a fearless hero, he resembled a clown. Nonetheless, he confidently took his seat beside his father.

The Turkish Prince, frequently glancing at Xiao Ce, smirked. Xiao Ce, catching the look, asked with a sly grin, "Are you a pervert?"

The Turkish Prince, annoyed, said in a formal tone and with a low voice, "Of course not, I have 50 wives and 200 concubines back at my harem."

Xiao Ce, unable to match the Turkish Prince's appetite for women, responded, "What about an archery contest later? I'm sure you won't decline a royal request."

The Turkish Prince was about to respond when the match ended. The results were finally announced, and looking at the two erected poles, the Turkish team had lost to the Chinese side.

Emperor Tang was pleased and overwhelmed, as the results were clear and unquestionable. The Turkish team stood up and bowed to the Emperor of Liang. Meanwhile, the Turkish envoy was eyeing the man with the golden mask and requested him to reveal his face.

The handsome man, in his prime, climbed down from his horse, bowed to the Emperor first, and nodded to the Turkish Prince, while blinking at his younger brother, Xiao Ce.

Emperor Tang introduced Prince Lou, though he did not claim him as his son, but rather the son of the late Emperor, his father, and Prince Lou's mother, Queen Yuan of Liang, who was now his wife.

This situation was complicated, and anyone would need to think carefully about who this prince was—standing victorious, having secured a win for the Chinese team.

Before Prince Li Yuan renamed himself Emperor Tang and ascended the Liang throne, he forced his father to step down by killing two of his brothers, leaving him the sole heir.

Though his early reign was marked by successful governance, his relationship with his father was strained. Although Emperor Tang allowed his father to live and forced him to support the new regime, the father-son relationship was never mended. No matter how much Emperor Tang tried to please his father, the old Emperor rejected him and often took the opposite stance on his decisions.

After the late Emperor abdicated, following the rituals and traditions of the Liang Empire, all of his concubines were sent to Kong Sang Mountain to serve at the temple as nuns. All except one—Concubine Yuan, who expressed her desire not to leave the capital. Reflecting on their silent past, when she was still serving her duty to produce a male heir for the Emperor, Emperor Tang had already developed feelings for her. However, those feelings were not pursued until he took the throne.

Concubine Yuan, still young and with dreams unfulfilled, could not accept her fate, nor did she want to leave her son behind. She wrote a sorrowful love letter to Emperor Tang.

As Concubine Yuan slowly walked, tearful and dressed in her pastel-colored nun robes, praying that heaven would hear her plea, a man in simple robes ran toward her across the Liang Palace grounds. When the man finally reached her, he said, "If you reach the gate and it doesn't open, it means that is not your door to leave through."

Concubine Yuan, speechless at the Emperor's romantic gesture, embraced him. They hugged as Emperor Tang, momentarily forgetting his title and etiquette, kissed the woman he had long desired.

After everything was settled, Emperor Tang passed a decree promoting Yuan to the rank of Imperial Concubine, one of the highest positions after Empress Lu Zhi.

By the time Yuan became his Imperial Concubine, Emperor Tang had already married his first wife, Empress Lu Zhi, who had given birth to Xiao Ce and named him the sole heir to the throne.

Unfortunately, the Empress suffered from postpartum depression after giving birth to the crown prince.

As a first-time mother, the Empress endured sleepless nights for weeks, unable to fulfill her duties to her husband, and nearly neglected her maternal instincts, leaving the throne temporarily forsaken.

Reports from the eunuchs assigned to the Empress reached the Emperor, detailing her worsening condition. They suggested sending her to the Royal Temple to restore her spirit and soul.

When the Empress realized she was being locked away in the temple and forced to perform rituals, she resisted and ran to the Imperial Concubine's palace.

The baby prince was brought to Imperial Concubine Yuan to be cared for while the Empress was sent away for recovery.

Horror struck the palace when the Empress, barefoot, came to cuddle the baby prince, then suddenly seized him and ran from the palace.

Upon hearing the news, the Emperor immediately ordered the Imperial guards to seize the Empress. They closed every gate and eventually found her with the child.

The eunuch approached the Empress and said, "He is the crown prince, heir to the throne. What do you plan to do with him? Your Majesty, hand over the baby prince."

Realizing her error, the Empress gently kissed the forehead of the sleeping baby prince in her arms.

Aware of her crime and the need to explain herself, she said, "How can I explain this when I don't even understand why I feel this way?"

The Empress handed the baby prince to the eunuch, regaining her sanity but with a tearful face. She ordered the royal guards to take her back to the Royal Temple, and they all bowed to her.

The baby prince was returned to Imperial Concubine Yuan. Besides being the Emperor's impossible love—once forbidden—one reason he favored her over the Empress was the Empress's condition.

The eunuchs also played a part in this, as they whispered in the Emperor's ear, swayed by Imperial Concubine Yuan, who had learned how to manipulate them. She saw this as an opportunity to undermine the Emperor's relationship with his Empress, and she played the role skillfully.

As the relationship between the Emperor and Empress grew colder, the Imperial Concubine stepped in to care for the heir to the throne, filling the void in their marriage. She did not mind being a tool for their separation.

After Empress Lu Zhi's pivotal moment, she stayed in the Royal Temple for several years. She never felt better, knowing that she had been banned from even seeing or caring for her son as a consequence of her actions toward the baby prince.

Obeying the Emperor's orders, she endured the punishment for actions she didn't fully understand at the time.

Now, restored to health and sanity, she was ready to return to her position.

However, due to the gap that had widened over the years, she was unable to regain her former standing with the Emperor, especially since the Imperial Concubine had risen to assume her duties in her absence for the good of the Empire.

Empress Lu Zhi's worst nightmare became reality when a decree was issued, officially deposing her as Queen. The reasons were unclear, but it was evident that someone had orchestrated the arrangement behind the scenes.

With her title stripped, Empress Lu Zhi packed her possessions and was provided with enough treasures to live a life apart from the throne.

The Emperor, in his grace, did not revoke her entitlements as the biological mother of Prince Xiao Ce. However, this decision would have long-lasting consequences, ultimately affecting the destiny of the prince.

As Empress Lu Zhi took her final steps out of the palace, her only companion, a loyal royal maid, glanced back when she heard the gates of Liang Palace slowly closing. A single tear slid down her cheek as silence settled over the scene.

Meanwhile, Prince Lou grew strong and formidable under the guidance of his mother, the Imperial Concubine, who had now been crowned the new Queen. She rose to the second-highest position in the Liang Empire, sharing the same power as Emperor Tang.

Her ambition for the throne was insatiable, and she refused to move into the Palace of the Deposed Queen, Xiao Ce's mother.

Instead, she proposed the construction of a new palace, which later became China's center for cultural arts, commerce, and industry.

Queen Yuan, with her cunning nature, raised both of her sons—Prince Lou and Xiao Ce—in the same courtyard. These two powerful princes formed a brotherly pact, united by wisdom and a shared ability to think strategically.

The Queen frequently taught them strong values about ruling the Empire when their time came. However, they had yet to realize that, despite being blood brothers, their paths were not destined to remain aligned in their pursuit of the throne.

Xiao Ce learned early on to hide his true feelings and pretend immaturity in front of his brother, Prince Lou, so that Lou would feel secure and share some of the privileges he enjoyed. This deception allowed Xiao Ce to observe the favoritism their father bestowed upon Lou.

Xiao Ce became skilled at managing envy within the family, preserving the love and brotherhood between them. Even after he wore the crown, he never used his position to gain an advantage over Prince Lou.

In truth, Xiao Ce was far wiser than any of his brothers and sisters, likely because he had been raised in the lap of a cunning and shrewd Queen. This was a significant advantage for him.

However, Xiao Ce was fully aware of the vulnerable position he held. He knew that one mistake could cost him his life and plunge the Empire into chaos, leaving the seat of the future Liang crown prince empty, a vacancy that many would exploit, turning into beasts to seize power.

The Emperor, unfortunately, never balanced his role as a father between the two brothers. He ensured that Prince Lou would always have to bow to his younger brother, Xiao Ce.

This deprivation of a father figure left Prince Lou in a constant state of sacrifice. He was forced to bear the burdens of his younger brother while putting aside his own dreams, much like a cup always ready to catch another's overflow.