Destined

Yang Hui quickly regained his composure. He glanced at the steward beside him before wrapping an arm around Xi Feng, whose tear-streaked face resembled pear blossoms glistening with rain. "Come inside first," he said. "Tell me slowly."

Xi Feng followed Yang Hui into the room. He stopped everyone at the door, shutting it firmly and leaving only the two of them inside. Urgently, he asked, "You said His Majesty wants to kill me?"

Xi Feng nodded through her tears. Yang Hui frowned. "Why would he want me dead?"

"I... I don't understand either," Xi Feng shook her head. "I went to deliver soup to His Majesty at noon today and heard him smashing things. He was saying something about... how they were seeking death just like Zhang Yu and Ye Qingwen. Then he ordered poisoned wine to be prepared for tonight's Palace Banquet. He said you were servants who wouldn't listen... and something about framing Gu Jiusi!"

As she spoke, Xi Feng frowned. "I've heard of someone as distinguished as Lord Gu, but didn't he flee to Youzhou long ago? I truly don't understand His Majesty's meaning, but I know this." She anxiously grabbed Yang Hui's sleeve. "The palace is already filled with soldiers everywhere. You mustn't go!"

"If there are soldiers everywhere," Yang Hui said warily, "how did you manage to leave?"

Hearing this, Xi Feng froze. After a moment, she trembled as she stood up, disbelief in her voice. "You suspect me?"

"No, I—"

Before he could finish, Xi Feng grabbed a nearby cup and threw it at him, then picked up whatever she could find and hurled it at him while crying, "You suspect me! How could you suspect me! I gave up being an imperial consort for you, gathered all my wealth, and disguised myself as a palace maid to escape—and you actually suspect me!"

"Xi Feng!"

Yang Hui grabbed her hands urgently. "That's not what I meant! What you've told me is too serious. I need to think it through carefully!"

"Just don't go to the palace!"

Xi Feng wept. "I just want you to live! Is that so difficult?!"

Her words made Yang Hui pause. Xi Feng cried until she was breathless, seemingly exhausted as she slowly slid down. Yang Hui watched blankly as she collapsed to the floor, sobbing quietly. Countless thoughts flashed through his mind.

What Xi Feng didn't understand, he did.

Seeking death like Zhang Yu and Ye Qingwen...

Framing Gu Jiusi...

It could only mean the emperor had decided to kill them.

First, Sima Nan and Wei Dacheng had accepted rouge from Gu Jiusi. Later, the emperor had taken Xi Feng to warn him. With Fan Yu's paranoia, having done this, he probably now feared they would rebel. With Zhou Gaolang about to enter the Eastern Capital and Gu Jiusi appearing there to secretly meet with the three of them, Fan Yu had likely decided to burn his bridges—kill them, frame Gu Jiusi, and let their subordinates fight Zhou Gaolang to the death out of hatred to protect the Eastern Capital.

Yang Hui remained silent for a long time amid Xi Feng's weeping. He felt as if he had been driven into a corner. Now, whether he rebelled or not, in Fan Yu's eyes, he, Wei Dacheng, and Sima Nan were already traitors. Even if Fan Yu didn't kill him tonight, it might only be because he still had use for them.

The deaths of Zhang Yu and Ye Qingwen served as a warning, and Gu Jiusi's words had struck a chord with them.

They had served to repay Fan Xuan and protect Fan Yu, but if Fan Xuan had left an edict to depose the emperor, did that mean Fan Xuan valued Great Xia more than his own bloodline?How could an emperor willing to betray his country for internal stability ever be the successor Fan Xuan had in mind?

Most importantly, Yuzhou was the foundation for all three of them. By ceding Yuzhou to Liu Xingzhi, Fan Yu was surrendering the very foundation of these three generals. Even if they managed to withstand Zhou Gaolang today and repel Liu Xingzhi, in the future, with only remnants of troops and aging generals left, would Fan Yu—given his temperament—truly spare them, now clouded by so much suspicion?

Yang Hui slowly closed his eyes. After a long while, he sighed and said, "Stop crying. I’ll think of a way."

"You’re not going to the palace?"

"I am."

"Then you…"

"I won’t die."

Yang Hui shook his head. He helped Xi Feng to her feet and wiped away her tears. "Since you’ve escaped, you’ve escaped. I’ll have someone take you into the city now. If there’s a future, I’ll send for you."

Xi Feng stared blankly at Yang Hui. He smiled, hugged her briefly, and then said, "You’re still young. Don’t be stubborn. Go."

With that, he led Xi Feng out of the room. She seemed not to have processed anything yet, but as he helped her into the carriage, she suddenly snapped to awareness. She grabbed Yang Hui, her voice tense. "Will there be war?"

"Probably."

Yang Hui looked at her with a smile, then added, "Don’t be afraid. I’m a general; war is commonplace for me."

"Then," Xi Feng asked with rare seriousness, "will you protect the people, or the emperor?"

Yang Hui hadn’t expected such a question from Xi Feng. After a moment of surprise, he chuckled. "Who do you want me to protect?"

Xi Feng pressed her lips together. After a long silence, she said, "I am one of the people. My parents, my family, my friends—they are all the people."

Yang Hui saw the plea in Xi Feng’s eyes. His heart stirred, and he couldn’t help but raise his hand to cup her cheek, speaking gently, "Then, for your sake, I will draw my sword this once."

"In the past, I always protected the emperor. This time, I will guard the people."

Xi Feng gazed quietly at Yang Hui.

Truth be told, Yang Hui was quite handsome. Though he had lived a dissolute life and was in his thirties, he still carried the charm of a dashing young man in his twenties. She had always thought him frivolous, but now she realized that even the most frivolous person could take on an indescribable gravity when the words "the people" were invoked.

She didn’t tease him. Lowering her eyes, she turned away and said hoarsely, "Take care."

"Go."

Yang Hui sighed softly.

Xi Feng entered the carriage and drew the curtain. Yang Hui stood at the entrance, watching the carriage clatter away. The steward approached him and whispered, "Minister Wei and Minister Sima were both intercepted on their way back and will arrive soon. Minister Fang is already waiting in the main hall for you."

Yang Hui nodded.

This Minister Fang was the official previously sent by Gu Jiusi to invite them—Fang Qin. If they wanted to find Gu Jiusi now, they would have to start with this Fang Qin.

Yang Hui returned to the main hall and saw Fang Qin drinking tea. Fang Qin stood and bowed to Yang Hui, who cut straight to the point: "Where is Gu Jiusi? I need to see him."Has the adult made up your mind?"" Fang Qin asked with a smile.

Yang Hui replied decisively, "I have."And the other two adults?"

"I will persuade them."

"Then," Fang Qin said with a grin, "may I ask how long it would take for you to seize the Imperial City?"

At these words, Yang Hui’s eyes widened. "He wants us to rebel outright?!""Could it be," Fang Qin said with some confusion, "that Lord Yang still intends to enter the palace to meet his death?"

Yang Hui remained silent for a long time before finally speaking: "We have nearly two hundred thousand troops stationed around the Eastern Capital. About ten thousand are inside the city walls, including five thousand imperial guards in the palace. If all our forces enter the Eastern Capital for tonight's assault, it would take at most two hours."

Fang Qin nodded. After a moment, he said respectfully: "Then I must trouble Lord Yang to first deploy troops to surround the Imperial City and arrest all who escape from the palace, especially Luo Zishang's people. Simultaneously, take control of the city walls, open the Eastern Capital's gates, and organize the evacuation of civilians. Lord Gu will enter the inner palace to persuade His Majesty. If we can avoid bloodshed, that would be best. If he hasn't emerged from the palace by mao hour, Lord Yang may directly storm the Imperial City."

"Why evacuate the civilians?"

Yang Hui frowned. Fang Qin continued: "According to our intelligence, Zhou Gaolang has already captured Wangdong Pass. If he marches through the night without rest, he will reach the Eastern Capital by tomorrow morning at the latest. At dawn, Lord Gu will first negotiate with Zhou Gaolang, trying to persuade Lord Zhou to abandon his attack on the Eastern Capital and enter peacefully. If Lord Gu fails, then regardless of whether the three generals decide to fight Lord Zhou or ally with him, they should at least spare the lives of the Eastern Capital's common people."

Yang Hui remained silent. Fang Qin looked up at him: "Lord Yang, whether you choose to protect the Eastern Capital or protect Yuzhou, Lord Gu will not stop you. But you must at least give the common people a way out."

"I understand."

Yang Hui took a deep breath: "Lord Gu's magnanimity is admirable. I will explain everything to Generals Sima and Wei when they arrive."

Hearing this, Fang Qin bowed to Yang Hui: "In that case, on behalf of the Eastern Capital's people, I thank the three generals."

As they spoke, news arrived that Sima Nan and Wei Dacheng had entered the compound. The two hurried into the room, with Wei Dacheng immediately asking Yang Hui: "You said there's an ambush in the palace - is this true?"

"Almost certainly."

Yang Hui nodded: "You may send someone to investigate the palace."

"No need." Sima Nan spoke up, and the other two looked at him. Sima Nan's expression was calm: "I've been thinking about this all day. Gu Jiusi was right - we served the late emperor, but in his heart, the Great Xia empire was more important than his bloodline. Fan Yu's cession of Yuzhou makes him unworthy to be ruler."

"Moreover," Sima Nan glanced at the other two, "even if he doesn't kill us today, what about later when we've lost Yuzhou and our troops are diminished? When he no longer needs us?"

If he could kill Zhang Yu who watched him grow up, and harbor such hatred for Zhou Gaolang who treated him like a nephew, what did they amount to?

After a moment of silence among the three, Yang Hui finally said: "I've already been in contact with Gu Jiusi."

Yang Hui then repeated Gu Jiusi's intentions. After some consideration, Sima Nan nodded: "So be it. Evacuate the civilians tonight. Tomorrow, if Gu Jiusi can stop Zhou Gaolang, well and good. If he can't, we'll cooperate with Zhou Gaolang. The Eastern Capital..."

Sima Nan pressed his lips together before finally saying: "The Great Xia must come first."

Fang Qin, who had been quietly listening to their discussion, reminded them: "But defensive preparations are still necessary." He smiled slightly, "Lord Gu said - just in case."

After thinking for a moment, Sima Nan responded: "Agreed."After finalizing their plans, the group set out to carry out their respective tasks.

The messengers departed from Yang Hui's residence, galloping through the streets to deliver orders to different locations.

The first group arrived at the city garrison. The guard raised his token and declared loudly, "By order of the three generals, troops are to assemble immediately before the palace gates! No delays permitted!"

Around the same time, another group reached the outskirts of the city. A mounted guard lifted his token and announced, "By order of the three generals, the Eastern Capital faces turmoil tonight! All soldiers must enter the city immediately to await assignments!"

Forces began gathering rapidly. Meanwhile, within the Imperial City, Fan Yu was enthusiastically directing the preparations for the Palace Banquet.

He intended to have a thorough discussion with Sima Nan, Wei Dacheng, and Yang Hui that evening. To demonstrate his sincerity, he had personally overseen every detail of the banquet's arrangement.

As palace staff hurried about their tasks, Fan Yu instructed Liu Shan to adjust the floral decorations while asking, "Where is the Imperial Consort? Why haven't I seen her?"

"Her Majesty is on her way," Liu Shan replied with a respectful smile. "She mentioned she wishes to dress elaborately for tonight's Palace Banquet."

"Quite right," Fan Yu said cheerfully. "Tonight is indeed a solemn occasion. Tell her not to rush and to take her time preparing."

While Fan Yu busied himself with the banquet preparations, Luo Zishang slowly made his way toward the main hall with his attendants. As he walked, he inquired of Ming Yi, "You're saying Yang Hui and the other two have rebelled?"

"Yes," Ming Yi answered respectfully. "They're already mobilizing troops to surround the Imperial City. Sir, what do you think we should..."

Luo Zishang remained silent for a moment, closing his eyes before asking calmly, "Is the gunpowder in the main hall ready?"

"All prepared," Ming Yi responded promptly. "The fuses have been connected as you instructed."

Luo Zishang gave a low chuckle. Ming Yi looked puzzled. "What amuses you, sir?"

"I never expected Gu Jiusi to actually succeed in turning those three against us," Luo Zishang said slowly, opening his eyes. "And he probably never imagined that my gunpowder was never intended for the Yellow River in the first place."

With that, he turned away and said calmly, "Let's go."

"Sir..." Ming Yi began hesitantly.

Luo Zishang glanced sideways at him. "Hmm?"

"Perhaps," Ming Yi pressed his lips together, "we should leave."

Luo Zishang didn't respond, instead fixing his gaze quietly on Ming Yi. Gripping his sword tightly, Ming Yi looked up and said, "Now that the three generals have rebelled and Liu Xingzhi's main army remains in Yuzhou, there's no way we can stay in the Eastern Capital any longer!"

"Do you think," Luo Zishang said calmly, "that we can actually leave now?"

He turned with a sigh of resignation. "And where would we go?"

If Liu Xingzhi failed to conquer Great Xia, where could they possibly find refuge?

Yangzhou was already lost. If Liu Xingzhi's campaign failed, he would certainly vent his frustration on them. And after tonight, the Eastern Capital would no longer be safe for them either.

His only path forward was victory—he had no other options left. If he fled now, he would spend the rest of his life hunted and on the run, with no future to speak of.

His words left Ming Yi standing frozen. Though Ming Yi wanted to argue, he couldn't find the words. Seeing his prolonged silence, Luo Zishang paused and looked back. Ming Yi stood by the door, seemingly lost. Watching him, Luo Zishang was suddenly reminded of Xiao Ming.

Xiao Ming, Wen Yi... one by one, those who had stood by him were gone.He gazed quietly at Ming Yi for a long time before suddenly saying, "Take the brothers and leave."

"My lord?"

"I cannot escape," he said calmly, "but you can. Go to the mansion, take some money, and leave the city quickly. From now on, live under assumed names. If the Yellow River bursts its banks as scheduled, take my token and lead the brothers to join Liu Xingzhi. If the Yellow River does not burst, take the money and never set foot on Great Xia soil again. Disperse with the brothers."

"No," Ming Yi frowned, "If I leave, who will protect you?"

"If you don't go," Luo Zishang looked at him quietly, "do you want to see me die before your eyes, or do you want me to watch you die?"

After saying this, Luo Zishang tucked his hands into his sleeves, turned around, and said calmly, "Go. After all, I am your master. You cannot defy me like this."

These words were heavy. Ming Yi stared blankly as Luo Zishang walked away steadily and swiftly without looking back.

As he disappeared into the long corridor, Luo Zishang suddenly realized that he was ultimately alone.

He chuckled softly to himself, then strode into the hall. Reaching the entrance, he raised his voice and called out, "Your Majesty!"

Everyone turned to look at him simultaneously. A cold glint flashed in Liu Shan's eyes as Luo Zishang bowed respectfully and proclaimed with a smile, "Long live Your Majesty!"

"Lord Luo has arrived." Fan Yu's expression was indifferent. "Take your seat first. We'll begin the banquet when the three generals arrive."

Luo Zishang smiled, not feeling slighted, and took his seat as instructed.

Fan Yu sat on the high seat, pouring wine for himself. He looked somewhat helplessly at Liu Shan and said, "Why haven't the three lords arrived yet?"

"Perhaps they're stuck on the road," Liu Shan explained. "The Eastern Capital's night market is bustling. Their carriages might be blocked halfway. This servant will send someone to hurry them along."

"No," Fan Yu raised his hand to stop Liu Shan. "There's no need. Let's wait slowly. It wouldn't be good to annoy the three lords by rushing them."

Liu Shan acknowledged with a smile. Hearing the conversation between Liu Shan and Fan Yu, Luo Zishang smiled and lowered his head without speaking. Liu Shan glanced at Luo Zishang, feeling quite uneasy.

Fan Yu tapped the table restlessly. After waiting a while longer, he said discontentedly, "It's one thing for the three generals to be late, but where's the Imperial Consort? Is she stuck on the road too?"

"This servant will send someone to hurry her along."

With that, Liu Shan quickly went to send someone to urge Xi Feng.

Meanwhile, Xi Feng's exclusive imperial consort carriage was slowly inching forward. Gu Jiusi wore a dark red outer robe over a plain white inner garment, his hair half-tied with a cloth band at the back. Sitting upright in the carriage, he held a sword flat across his knees—a simple yet elegant black scabbard with gold edges. Beneath the sword lay a thick, untitled ledger.

Jiang He and Wang Lai sat on either side. Dressed in golden robes and jade crown, Jiang He fanned himself and said, "What exactly are you planning to do with that ledger you asked me to forge?"

"I want to test something."

"Test something?"

Jiang He looked puzzled. Gu Jiusi lowered his head, brushed his hand over the ledger, and said slowly, "Uncle, if I hadn't met Yuru, if none of this had happened, I might have remained a wastrel my whole life."

"I didn't know words could hurt people. I didn't know an unintentional joke could ruin someone's entire life. I would have spent most of my life scheming against my father, trying to prove myself to him."Jiang He listened quietly without a word. Gu Jiusi lifted his head, gazing at the swaying carriage curtain ahead, and continued, "I heard from Liu Shan that before the late emperor passed, His Majesty's final question to him was whether the empire or himself mattered more. You might not understand the weight of those words, but I do. I believe His Majesty, deep down, cares deeply about the late emperor."

"Do all sons care about their fathers?"

Jiang He lowered his eyes, rhythmically opening and closing a small fan in his hand. Gu Jiusi shook his head, "Not everyone cares for their father, but many care about their own lives."

Jiang He looked up at Gu Jiusi, who met his gaze with meaningful emphasis, "Parents are one's starting point."

Jiang He remained silent. After a long pause, he suddenly laughed, "You're right."

"When one clings to something for too long, it becomes an obsession," Gu Jiusi, seeing Jiang He seemed to understand, withdrew his gaze and said slowly, "All obsessions need an end."

Jiang He acknowledged with a sound and turned to look at the intermittently visible palace walls outside the curtain. "You're right," he murmured, "Everything needs an end."

As they spoke, the carriage arrived at the main hall's entrance. They alighted, drawing surprised glances from those around, yet no one dared question them—for Gu Jiusi, Jiang He, and Wang Lai stood firm and unafraid, their postures upright and unyielding.

They proceeded into the hall, where palace servants recognized them with a mix of shock and suspicion. Inside, Dancers twirled with Wide Sleeves fluttering, and Fan Yu, seated on the high throne, stared in astonishment at the figures appearing at the entrance.

Gu Jiusi, sword in hand, with Jiang He and Wang Lai following behind, strode into the hall. They passed through the Dancers and halted at the center, where the three knelt on one knee and declared in clear voices, "Your subjects Gu Jiusi, Jiang He, and Wang Lai pay respects to Your Majesty!"

By now, it was the hour of Xu. Outside the Imperial City, soldiers began gathering, encircling the palace walls. The guards hastily closed the gates, urgently reporting, "Quick, send word to His Majesty! The three generals have rebelled and surrounded the Imperial City!"

At the Eastern Capital's city tower, Gu Jiusi's men led Yang Hui's soldiers up the ramparts, severed the ropes, and shouted to the troops arriving outside the city, "Enter the city! The three armies enter by order—any who dare obstruct will be executed without mercy!"

On the Yellow River embankment, work proceeded in an orderly fashion. More and more people arrived—villagers from surrounding areas came to help transport sandbags, throw stones to fill the earth, and even block the breach itself...

Under a fine drizzle, as a crack split open, many stepped forward, linking hands to withstand the current while those behind piled sandbags and stones.

Again and again, they pressed onward.

Liu Yu Ru was behind them, struggling with others to carry sandbags forward. Fu Baoyuan, watching her, smiled bitterly and said, "Perhaps you should leave?"

Liu Yu Ru looked up at him. Fu Baoyuan, helping her carry a sandbag, whispered, "Jin'er is only one year old. If anything happens to Jiusi, the family will rely on you. One more person won't make much difference, one less won't be missed."

He lowered his head and added, "The rain is getting heavier."

Heavier it fell, and now more breaches were cracking open. When the true surge from upstream arrived, a breach was inevitable.Liu Yuru understood his meaning. She shook her head and said, "I asked everyone to stay. How could I leave?"

As they spoke, they placed the sandbags in their designated positions and turned back to carry more. Just then, someone cried out in alarm.

"A huge wave!"

"The great wave is coming!"

Liu Yu Ru turned around and saw the upstream river surging forth like a wild beast, while the raindrops turned fierce as well. She shouted loudly, "Hold on! Everyone hold on!"

The Yellow River's waters rushed fiercely, and atop the Shou Nan Pass, the wind howled sharply.

In the distance, the thunderous sound of warhorses rose, accompanied by the beat of military drums and piercing battle cries. Shen Ming stood at the top of the city wall, the red tassel on his helmet fluttering in the wind. He gazed at the army advancing through the rain, as Ye Yun calmly said beside him, "All medical supplies and stretchers are ready, and the oil is prepared as well. You can rest assured."

Ye Yun lifted her eyes, looking at the distant army, and spoke calmly, "If you are injured, I will save you. If you die, I will collect your body. If they breach Shou Nan Pass, I will not leave a single grain of food for them."

Shen Ming glanced at her and couldn't help but laugh, "You're still so decisive."

Just as Ye Yun was about to retort, she saw Shen Ming suddenly step forward and shout, "Release the arrows!"

In that instant, thousands of flaming arrows lit up the night sky, shooting toward the army.

Thus began what was nearly the most difficult defensive battle of Great Xia.

On the battlefield, the sounds of drums and shouts filled the air, yet in the main hall of the Eastern Capital's Imperial City, it was as silent as death.

Fan Yu stared blankly at Gu Jiusi. After a long while, he stood up, his voice trembling as he said, "You... how can you be here!"

"Guards!" He looked around and shouted, "Guards, seize this traitor!"

No sooner had he spoken than hurried footsteps echoed from outside, and a guard rushed in, saying, "Your Majesty, it's... it's terrible! The soldiers have surrounded the Imperial City!"

"What did you say?"

Fan Yu exclaimed in shock, "Who has surrounded the Imperial City?!"

The guard knelt on the ground, panting, and said, "The armies of Wei Dacheng, Sima Nan, and Yang Hui—they are now stationed outside the palace and have completely surrounded the Imperial City."

Hearing this, Fan Yu was utterly stunned. He instinctively looked toward Luo Zishang, who stood up, clasped his hands in front of him, and calmly said to Gu Jiusi, "Gu Jiusi, anything can be discussed. Why not invite the three generals inside for a talk?"

"I'm surprised you're still here," Gu Jiusi said, looking at Luo Zishang as he quietly assessed him. "You should have fled by now."

"You've laid a net of heaven and earth outside," Luo Zishang chuckled. "If I go out, wouldn't I be walking right into a trap?"

"You estimate quite well."

"Not as well as Lord Gu."

After this exchange, the two stood silently, staring at each other without a word. Fan Yu watched them nervously, shouting at the guard, "What are you waiting for? Seize them! Seize them now!"

"Your Majesty," Luo Zishang descended from the high platform and reminded Fan Yu, "Their troops are stationed outside. If we make a move, they will storm the city."

As he spoke, Luo Zishang walked up to Gu Jiusi. The two were similar in stature, and even their features bore some resemblance. Luo Zishang looked at Gu Jiusi and let out a low laugh, "Having known you for so long, it seems we've never played a game of chess."

"Indeed."

"Shall we have a match?"

"Very well."

Gu Jiusi agreed, then turned to Liu Shan, handing over a booklet in his hand, and said calmly, "Present this to His Majesty.Liu Shan respectfully approached Gu Jiusi, took the booklet, and held it, presenting it to Fan Yu. Fan Yu, nervous and fearful, dared not touch the booklet.Palace attendants brought over a chess table and began setting up the board. Gu Jiusi invited Luo Zishang to take a seat while quietly saying to Fan Yu, "This is something I found in Youzhou at the former emperor's old residence. I thought Your Majesty might want it, so I brought it along."

Hearing it was Fan Xuan's possession, Fan Yu froze. He stared fixedly at the booklet, shaking his head as if wanting to refuse. Gu Jiusi calmly picked up a chess piece and said, "Your Majesty should still take a look. Perhaps the answer you've been seeking is here."

Hearing this, Fan Yu gazed at the booklet for a long time before finally reaching out to take it. He opened it and began reading the contents.

Inside was Fan Xuan's journal, seemingly written many years earlier.

"Today my son entered this world. When I held him, he wouldn't stop crying. I must be holding him incorrectly - I need to specially learn how to hold a baby properly."

"Have been contemplating a name for my son for months. If I don't decide soon, we'll end up calling him 'Baby' forever. Had to resort to drawing lots - got the name 'Jade'. Heaven decreed jade, so my son shall become a gentleman as pure as jade."

......

Line by line, starting from his birth, Fan Yu stared blankly at this never-before-seen journal, momentarily entranced.

Seeing Fan Yu begin reading the booklet, Gu Jiusi turned and made an inviting gesture to Luo Zishang.

Luo Zishang glanced at him, nodded, and placed the first chess piece.

"I originally thought I would win," he began as the piece landed. "Years ago I urged Liu Xingzhi to attack Great Xia, but he didn't dare. I could only agree to become his inside agent and come to Great Xia. I knew early on that Great Xia would prosper in the future, but its internal foundations were too weak - that was my opportunity. I planned to control Fan Yu, then give Liu Xingzhi the chance to attack. While you fought like the snipe and clam, I would play the fisherman profiting from their strife."

Luo Zishang's chess style was fierce and aggressive. As he spoke, he rapidly placed pieces, pressing forward step by step. Gu Jiusi remained unhurried, his white pieces passively responding, barely holding against Luo Zishang's offensive. His voice remained calm as he said, "But this very waiting gave Great Xia its opportunity. While Yuru and I encouraged farming in Youzhou and developed commerce, after the Yellow River opened to navigation, Great Xia's internal trade flourished. Under Yuru's organization, both Yongzhou and Youzhou saw great increases in grain production. The Yellow River navigation not only helped Great Xia quickly recover from previous internal conflicts but also solved grain transportation issues between Youzhou and Yongzhou. This multiplied the difficulty of your attack on Great Xia."

"But I also tampered with the Yellow River," Luo Zishang continued. "If the Yellow River breaches its banks, your frontlines in Yuzhou would be completely wiped out, and your troops would be gone."

As he spoke, Luo Zishang trapped Gu Jiusi's pieces, capturing one. Gu Jiusi placed a piece in a distant corner.

"Then I transferred all frontline troops in Fan Yu's name, stationing them in the Eastern Capital. After designing Qin Wan Zhi's death to enrage Zhou Gaolang into attacking the Eastern Capital, Great Xia's two elite forces would battle here, leaving only remnants behind."

Luo Zishang placed another piece, capturing more of Gu Jiusi's stones. Gu Jiusi's expression remained unchanged as he placed another piece in a remote area.

"But Great Xia's army trains through combat. Even if only remnants remain, they could still fight Liu Xingzhi. Liu Xingzhi's battle lines stretch too long - from Yizhou to the Eastern Capital. After battling Eastern Capital forces, I would strike when his troops are exhausted, using the banner of restoring Great Xia to unite the empire."As he spoke, Luo Zishang placed his pieces along the edge, methodically picking up a cluster of Gu Jiusi’s stones in the lower right corner.

"You should have died at this moment," Luo Zishang remarked, gazing at Gu Jiusi with apparent regret. Gu Jiusi casually set down a piece and replied gently, "Unfortunately, I did not."

"Luo Zishang, in truth, your defeat was predetermined from the very beginning."

With a light touch, Gu Jiusi placed another stone. Luo Zishang frowned and asked, "What do you mean?"

"You believed the late emperor was unaware of your schemes—that he appointed you as Imperial Tutor to appease Yangzhou. Little did you know, the late emperor was buying time. You and Liu Xingzhi, as rulers of a nation, neglected the task of strengthening the state, focusing instead on political manipulation. The late emperor, however, was well aware of your intentions. He knew that if he refused your entry into the Eastern Capital, you would return to Yangzhou and seek other means, or perhaps, sensing the threat from Great Xia, persuade Liu Xingzhi to launch a joint attack. Yet, at that time, Great Xia lacked the strength to withstand such an assault. Thus, the late emperor permitted your entry into the Eastern Capital not to grant you an opportunity, but to secure time for Great Xia."

Upon hearing this, Luo Zishang’s eyes widened abruptly.

Gu Jiusi placed his stone and began capturing pieces. As the two exchanged moves, Luo Zishang began to notice that Gu Jiusi’s white stones had imperceptibly formed a cohesive network. Gu Jiusi remained composed and continued, "You thought breaching the Yellow River to eliminate Yuzhou’s forces would pave the way for Liu Xingzhi, unaware that Zhou Gaolang was waiting for you to do just that."

"Why?" Luo Zishang’s palm grew sweaty as he clutched his stone. Gu Jiusi replied calmly, "Because once the Yellow River floods, millions of commoners will suffer. And when the news spreads that you and Liu Xingzhi were the masterminds, where will the people’s allegiance lie?"

"The people’s allegiance?" Luo Zishang scoffed derisively. "What does the people’s allegiance amount to?"

"Under ordinary circumstances, very little," Gu Jiusi went on. "You claimed that by breaching the Yellow River, Zhou Gaolang would seize the Eastern Capital, plunder its wealth, and use those resources to recruit refugees as soldiers to rebuild the Yellow River for Yongzhou’s people. But then, will Yongzhou belong to Lord Zhou or Liu Xingzhi?"

Luo Zishang’s expression turned cold at these words. Gu Jiusi placed another stone and captured more pieces. "The Yellow River breach may have destroyed Yuzhou’s main forces, but it also created countless enemies for you. As long as they can be sustained, they will become Lord Zhou’s most formidable army. And Yongzhou will naturally surrender without a fight. Once Yongzhou is secured, how difficult will it be for Liu Xingzhi to attack Yangzhou?"

Gu Jiusi continued to press his advantage with each move, while Luo Zishang struggled to defend, beads of sweat forming on his forehead. Gu Jiusi added, "You assumed that by stationing three generals in the Eastern Capital and forcing Zhou Gaolang into a decisive battle there, he would then dig in and face Liu Xingzhi. But no—Zhou Gaolang had a plan from the start. He never intended to hold the Eastern Capital; he only wanted its wealth. With that wealth, he would take Yongzhou, regroup his forces, and fight again. By then, Liu Xingzhi would face millions of enemies. So, do you still believe breaching the Yellow River was a brilliant strategy?"

Luo Zishang fell silent for a moment before speaking again. "If Yangzhou does not fall into your hands, wouldn’t Zhou Gaolang fear a joint attack from me and Liu Xingzhi on Yongzhou?""So, why do you think the late emperor allowed you to remain in the Eastern Capital for so long?"

Gu Jiusi said calmly, "You committed heinous crimes in Yangzhou, and the people there remember every one of them. They were merely biding their time. Xiao Ming is just a nineteen-year-old youth—it’s difficult for him to fully control a Yangzhou already seething with undercurrents. Even without Yuru, someone else would have emerged sooner or later. Losing Yangzhou was inevitable for you."

"Every path yields its own consequences. Luo Zishang, you may believe you are exceptionally clever, but there are far more intelligent people in this world than you. Why do you think they don’t take the path you chose?"

As he spoke, Gu Jiusi lifted his gaze to meet Luo Zishang’s eyes. "Because every road paved with countless crimes leads to a dead end. What we call 'the realm' is nothing but the land and its people. If you desire the realm, you must hold the realm in your heart. If your focus remains solely on manipulating power and human hearts, how can you possibly grasp the full scope of the entire chessboard?"

"If you had been like the late emperor, you would never have entered the Eastern Capital in the first place. Instead, you would have stayed in Yangzhou to atone for your sins, contemplating how to improve the lives of its people. You might not even have become the ruler of Yangzhou in the manner you did. Or, if you had been like Zhou Gaolang—serving as both ruler and subject—you would have at least recognized the late emperor’s grand strategy during his efforts to replenish the national treasury, pacify the old factions, tame the Yellow River, investigate the Yongzhou case, reduce taxes, develop agriculture and trade, and even advance the imperial examinations. Do you think Zhou Gaolang lost by abandoning the Eastern Capital? Look closely—where are the two largest granaries of Great Xia located? Youzhou and Yongzhou. Where are the main shipping routes of Great Xia? From Youzhou to Yongzhou. As long as Zhou Gaolang holds these two regions, his resurgence is only a matter of time."

With these words, Gu Jiusi placed the final chess piece on the board with a sharp "clack." He looked at Luo Zishang with a hint of pity and said, "So, from the very beginning, you were destined to lose."

Luo Zishang remained silent, staring at the defeated chessboard. After a long while, he couldn’t help but let out a low, bitter laugh.

"I’ve lost…"

He laughed, covering his face with his hands. "I’ve lost… But have you truly won?!"

"You want a wise ruler, a peaceful and prosperous age! How is Zhou Gaolang—a man who traded the lives of an entire city for the throne, treating human life as worthless—any different from me?!"

As he spoke, Luo Zishang struggled to his feet, his demeanor bordering on madness. He roared, "They were merely born into better circumstances, starting from a higher position than I did. Do you think they are any nobler than I am?!"

"And as for you—"

He pointed at Gu Jiusi, his eyes blazing with fury. "Do you think you are any more virtuous than I am? You’ve merely climbed over others to keep your hands clean. What right do you have to judge me?!"

"I am not judging you."

Gu Jiusi rose to his feet and replied indifferently, "I am only granting you the clarity of death."

"Clarity of death?"

Luo Zishang seemed to find this amusing. "You’re granting me the clarity of death?"

"You may choose to end your own life—it would be more dignified that way."

Gu Jiusi looked at him. "If you refuse, it makes no difference. I can personally send you on your way."

"Gu Jiusi," Luo Zishang said, the candlelight at his side casting a crimson glow on his profile. He suddenly smiled. "Do you think you’ve already won?"

Seeing that smile, Gu Jiusi sensed danger. He lunged forward abruptly, but Luo Zishang snatched the candle and shouted, "Stop right there!""I have placed gunpowder throughout this palace." Luo Zishang gripped the candle and stepped back. Upon hearing this, Liu Shan's face turned pale. Everyone in the palace began rushing outside in panic. Liu Shan hurriedly went to support Fan Yu, urging anxiously, "Your Majesty, leave quickly! Get out now!"

Fan Yu clutched the booklet as Liu Shan dragged him outside.

Gu Jiusi didn't dare move. He knew Luo Zishang's target was him - if he moved, Luo Zishang would immediately light the fuse. Buying time for everyone, he subconsciously clenched his fists.

"Liu Yu Ru always said I'm not a good person," Luo Zishang spoke slowly, "But actually, I can avoid killing and won't kill indiscriminately."

"You could have been a good person," Gu Jiusi responded. Luo Zishang chuckled lowly: "Perhaps. But it's not wrong that I'm a bad person now. There's something I've never said, but today I must say it—"

Luo Zishang raised his eyes, looking at Gu Jiusi: "Your Gu Family owes me and my mother an apology."

"If you couldn't marry Luo Yishui, why did you pursue her? Since you pursued her, why didn't you marry her? Since you gave birth to me, why didn't you raise me properly, educate me? Why did you live in luxury while I had to witness all the evils of this world and suffer every hardship?"

"I am wrong," Luo Zishang stared at Gu Jiusi, "I have wronged everyone under heaven, but your Gu Family owes me an apology."

These words made Gu Jiusi freeze momentarily. He instinctively looked toward Jiang He, who was watching Luo Zishang calmly. Jiang He spoke: "If the Gu Family gives you this apology, will you put down the candle?"

Hearing this, Luo Zishang seemed to find it extremely amusing. He laughed heartily: "Whether I put down the candle or not, what does it have to do with the apology your Gu Family owes me? Do you think a mere 'sorry' can make me drop my weapon and become a Buddha? Don't you think you're dreaming?!"

"I have indeed lost, but Gu Jiusi, Jiang He," he looked at them, laughing until tears came, "you haven't won either."

"None of us have won." Luo Zishang spoke softly, raising his hand to light the fuse on the nearby candlestick. But at that very moment, Luo Zishang suddenly heard Jiang He utter in an extremely low voice: "I'm sorry."

Luo Zishang's hand trembled slightly. Yet in that same instant, Jiang He's sword pierced through Luo Zishang's body while simultaneously pressing down on the candle flame. Luo Zishang reacted equally fast - the moment Jiang He lunged forward, he drew his sleeve dagger and stabbed it into Jiang He's body. At the same time, he angled the candle toward the fuse.

The moment Luo Zishang lit the fuse, Gu Jiusi sprinted toward the palace exit. Jiang He's interference bought him precious moments. Just as Gu Jiusi reached the main door, he heard a tremendous explosion behind him, followed by a wave of heat that propelled him forward, forcing him to the ground.

He felt his organs shaken with pain, then heard crashing collapse sounds behind him. Pushing himself up, he rushed forward. When he looked back, he saw the main hall completely engulfed in flames, becoming a sea of fire.

Inside the hall, surrounded by flames, two figures stood with their blades embedded in each other's bodies, blood flowing from their mouths.

"You're right,"

Jiang He spoke with difficulty: "Pursuing her but not marrying her was my mistake."Upon hearing these words, Luo Zishang slowly widened his eyes. Jiang He gasped for breath and continued, "It was also my fault for giving birth to you but failing to raise you properly."

"Now, I shall end you with my own hands. I offer my life to you as well."

"But you must know one thing," Jiang He raised his hand and covered Luo Zishang's face, "your mother loved you deeply."

Luo Zishang gazed at him quietly as Jiang He's vision began to darken: "And I... loved your mother dearly."

"If... if her father hadn't killed my brother," Jiang He seemed to lose strength, his voice growing fainter, "I would have married her... would have known about your birth... would have..."

Before he could finish, the roof beam finally gave way under the fierce flames and collapsed with a thunderous crash. Jiang He pushed Luo Zishang forward as the beam struck him, causing him to fall upon Luo Zishang. With great difficulty, he uttered his final words: "Would have... watched you... grow up..."

After these words, Jiang He fell silent forever.

Luo Zishang lay on the ground, feeling blood flow around him. Surrounded by flames, the fire serpents devoured his sleeves and seared his skin. Staring blankly at the ceiling, he suddenly felt as if he had returned to his youth.

He recalled crouching outside the private school, listening to students reciting lessons with swaying heads. The Liu family carriage slowly passed by, and a young girl lifted the curtain to peer curiously at him.

Back then, the sky was blue, the clouds were white, Yangzhou's scenery was at its finest, and he was still a youth full of promise.

Pain and scorching heat consumed him as he slowly closed his eyes.

For the first time in his life, he had finally fulfilled his last regret.

"Father."

This word had once embodied all his aspirations for happiness.

He had imagined countless times that if Gu Langhua had brought him back to the Gu Family during his youth, he might have turned out like Gu Jiusi.

But only today did he discover it wasn't Gu Langhua.

His father was actually the man who, at age twelve, had personally set him on the path of bones and blood.

The massacre of the Luo family marked the beginning of his bloody journey. Yet even so, when Jiang He told him that given another chance, he would have watched him grow up properly, Luo Zishang still chose to call him "Father."

Gu Jiusi rushed out of the main hall and collapsed on the ground. Wang Lai, who had been waiting outside, immediately hurried over to help him up, asking, "Are you alright, Young Master?"

"Uncle..." Gu Jiusi panted, trying to turn back and charge inside, frantically repeating, "Uncle..."

"Lord Jiang is still inside."

Wang Lai firmly grasped Gu Jiusi, speaking calmly though his hands trembled. Struggling to maintain composure, he said in a low, hoarse voice, "Young Master, there are still many matters awaiting us."

Gu Jiusi remained silent, half-kneeling on the ground without a word.

Though his eyes reddened, Wang Lai continued, "Lord Jiang anticipated this day. He said he owed Luo Zishang and the Luo family a life, and that he would repay it sooner or later."

Gu Jiusi didn't respond. Leaning on Wang Lai for support, he stood up and said in a raspy voice, "First, organize people to fight the fire. There's still much work to be done."

As he spoke, he walked outward. With raging flames behind him, Gu Jiusi used all his strength to remain rational, yet inexplicably, his vision grew increasingly blurred.

He walked from the inner courtyard to the outer courtyard for what felt like an eternity. When he finally reached Fan Yu, he appeared to have regained his composure. Bowing respectfully, he addressed, "Your Majesty."Fan Yu paid no heed to his words, staring blankly at the raging flames shooting skyward, his expression still somewhat dazed.

Gu Jiusi swallowed the blood surging in his chest and said hoarsely, "Give the order."

Fan Yu turned his head, looking at Gu Jiusi with confusion. "What order?"

"Pass the throne to Lord Zhou."

Gu Jiusi spoke decisively: "This is the only way for you to have a chance at survival."

"Survival?"

Fan Yu laughed scornfully: "Where would Zhou Gaolang leave any path to survival for me?"

"Your Majesty," Gu Jiusi lowered his head and said earnestly, "even if not for yourself, think of the common people."

"The lives of ants," Fan Yu said coldly, "what concern are they of mine?"

"Your Majesty," Gu Jiusi sighed, "I once heard the late emperor say that you were always his pride."

Fan Yu remained silent, clenching his fists and stiffening his neck. Gu Jiusi kept his head bowed and continued: "Now the late emperor has passed away."

These words made Fan Yu somewhat dazed. Gu Jiusi sighed: "Your Majesty, even if the whole world doesn't recognize you, the late emperor still entrusted this kingdom to you. You should at least prove him right once."

"Hand the kingdom to Zhou Gaolang, save the people of Eastern Capital once."

Fan Yu remained silent for a long time, seeming somewhat bewildered. He still held the booklet Gu Jiusi had given him, while Gu Jiusi waited beside him. After a long while, Fan Yu turned to look at Gu Jiusi and finally asked: "What about Xi Feng?"

"Still alive."

"If I abdicate, will Zhou Gaolang spare me?"

"Yes."

"What about Liu Shan?"

"He can be spared."

"Xi Feng too?"

"Yes."

"Good." Fan Yu turned away, lowering his eyes as if weary. "Bring me paper and brush."

Hearing this, Liu Shan immediately had someone bring the imperial edict. Fan Yu wrote the contents of the edict and then affixed the imperial seal.

After verifying the edict's contents, Gu Jiusi breathed a sigh of relief and said to Liu Shan: "First escort His Majesty to rest."

Liu Shan bowed in acknowledgment and supported Fan Yu back to his bedchamber.

Fan Yu kept holding that booklet, his expression seeming exhausted.

"Liu Shan," he murmured absently, "only now do I finally feel that my father is dead."

Liu Shan remained silent. Fan Yu said slowly: "I originally thought I hated him."

"But now I realize Xi Feng was right."

"I was actually just... unable to let go."

Liu Shan listened to his murmuring as he escorted him back to the palace. Upon returning to the bedchamber, Liu Shan attended to his washing and then presented him with a cup of warm tea, saying gently: "Your Majesty, you're tired. Rest well."

"Liu Shan," Fan Yu opened his eyes, whether in fear or confusion, "can I survive?"

"Minister Gu has promised you," Liu Shan said respectfully, "Lord Zhou will spare you."

"Good..."

Hearing this, Fan Yu finally felt relieved. He slowly closed his eyes: "Liu Shan, I've treated you so well. Don't betray me."

"Your Majesty," Liu Shan suddenly spoke, "do you remember Liu Xing?"

"Who is that?"

Fan Yu seemed confused. Liu Shan smiled: "This servant's elder brother. He once served you - a careless servant you've probably forgotten."

"I see..."

Fan Yu felt sleepy and said quietly: "When this matter is settled, have him come serve before me."

Liu Shan didn't respond. Fan Yu closed his eyes, and after a while, Liu Shan stood up and left.

Upon obtaining the edict, Gu Jiusi immediately took command of the imperial palace guards, then ordered the palace gates opened and invited Sima Nan, Wei Dacheng, and Yang Hui inside.After the three men entered the palace, the fire in the main hall had been mostly extinguished. Eunuchs carried two bodies from the debris. Gu Jiusi stood beside the corpses, though he could no longer recognize who was who. After a long silence, he finally said, "Place them in coffins for now."

Only after arranging for the bodies of Jiang He and Luo Zishang did Gu Jiusi turn around and bow to Sima Nan, Wei Dacheng, and Yang Hui.

He was injured and still looked pale. Yang Hui couldn't help but say, "Lord Gu, should you see the imperial physician first?"

"I already have."

Gu Jiusi smiled faintly. "There's no need for concern, gentlemen. Let's discuss tomorrow's matters first. Have the civilians all been evacuated?"

"It will likely take until tomorrow."

Yang Hui frowned. "There are too many people."

Gu Jiusi nodded. "Do your best. First, notify the court officials to attend the morning assembly as usual. Generals," Gu Jiusi seemed weary, "tomorrow I will first attempt to persuade Zhou Gaolang to enter the city peacefully. If persuasion fails, I can no longer control what happens next. How you three proceed from here requires careful consideration."

The three men acknowledged without further comment.

Soon, it was time for the morning assembly. Gu Jiusi sent a eunuch to summon Fan Yu. The eunuch returned shortly with Liu Shan.

"Where is His Majesty?"

Gu Jiusi was surprised. Liu Shan replied calmly, "Beaten to death by palace servants."

At these words, Gu Jiusi's eyes widened. "What did you say?!"

"His Majesty was excessively cruel in the palace," Liu Shan's expression showed no trace of pity. "He had many enemies among the staff. After I escorted him back to his chambers last night, numerous eunuchs and maids learned of his return and took advantage of my absence to secretly beat him to death."

Gu Jiusi fell silent. He already understood what had happened without Liu Shan's explanation.

Liu Shan's elder brother, Liu Xing, had been Fan Yu's initial attendant who died from Fan Yu's abuse. This occurred when Fan Yu had just become Crown Prince, and Liu Shan had taken his brother's position.

Gu Jiusi had initially bribed Liu Shan with gold and silver, later developing a genuine relationship.

Liu Shan looked up at Gu Jiusi and reminded him, "My lord said Lord Zhou would spare His Majesty, but was His Majesty's debt only to Lord Zhou?"

"I understand."

Gu Jiusi nodded. "Prepare the body properly and await Lord Zhou's arrangements."

Though Fan Yu was gone, the morning assembly still needed to proceed. All court officials had received notice to attend as usual, but they had also heard about the military uprising. None could decipher what was truly happening, so they pretended ignorance and attended with apprehension.

A few remained exceptionally composed, such as Minister of Justice Li Yuchang and Censor Qin Nan. They stood among the crowd, seemingly unaffected by the political turmoil.

The sky hadn't yet brightened. All officials stood in order outside the main hall. One anxious official tugged at Li Yuchang's sleeve and whispered, "Lord Li, you don't seem afraid at all?"

"Why should I be?"

"There was a military uprising last night," the man continued. "What if we get a new emperor..."

"What difference does it make?"

Li Yuchang turned his gaze to the dark clouds above, speaking calmly, "Even with a new emperor, I remain the people's Minister."The sky in the Eastern Capital gradually brightened, but in the Yongzhou section of the Yellow River, torrential rain poured down. The Yellow River's waters ultimately breached the dikes, yet the sandbags Liu Yu Ru had piled up in the rear once again blocked the river's path. Everyone linked hands and stepped forward, standing in the raging waters to buy time for those behind them to rush repairs.

Liu Yu Ru had exhausted her strength. She stood hand in hand with Yin Hong, Fu Baoyuan, and Mr. Li in the floodwaters, allowing the torrent to batter their bodies. Her face was pale, her entire body trembling, relying solely on sheer willpower to hold onto others and avoid being swept away.

"Mr... Mr. Li!" Yin Hong's voice quivered as she spoke, "How much longer?"

"Until the rain stops..." Mr. Li was also struggling to hold on, but he still raised his voice and shouted, "When the sun rises, the rain will stop!"

Before the sun had risen, the Eastern Capital's main hall echoed with the clear announcement of a eunuch. Then the great hall doors opened, and officials filed in. Upon entering, they saw Gu Jiusi standing on a high platform, holding an imperial edict in one hand and the Son of Heaven's Sword in the other.

From the elevated platform, Gu Jiusi read Fan Yu's imperial decree. After finishing, he finally declared, "I ask all of you to join me in going to the city gates to welcome His Majesty."

The court ministers exchanged uncertain glances. Gu Jiusi continued, "His Majesty has already issued orders on his journey: after capturing the Eastern Capital, the city will be looted for three days. Our purpose in going to greet him is to pacify His Majesty, ensure a peaceful entry into the city, and prevent chaos."

The crowd remained silent. Li Yuchang coldly interjected, "If we don't go now, are we waiting to be purged later?"

Hearing this reminder, everyone finally grasped the situation. Qin Nan added, "With the Eastern Capital facing crisis, if we officials don't save it, who will?"

Amid the surrounding silence, Qin Nan stepped forward and said to Gu Jiusi, "Minister Gu, please lead the way."

Gu Jiusi descended from the high platform, followed immediately by Li Yuchang and Qin Nan, who positioned themselves in the first row behind him. Then Gu Jiusi's disciples joined them. As the numbers grew, those who had been hesitant gritted their teeth and ultimately followed Gu Jiusi out of the palace gates to welcome Zhou Gaolang outside the city.

As they exited, commoners were also evacuating. The West Gate where Zhou Gaolang was arriving had been locked, forcing civilians to disperse through the other three gates.

The hundreds of officials marched in a grand procession along the road, drawing sidelong glances from the people. Sensing the public's gaze, the officials unconsciously straightened their backs as they followed behind Gu Jiusi.

When they reached the city gates, the sun was just peeking over the distant horizon. Then everyone saw the "Zhou" banner fluttering in the air from afar, spotting the army charging toward the Eastern Capital in the distance.

Zhou Gaolang had arrived earlier than Gu Jiusi anticipated, proving he had truly pressed on without rest, traveling day and night.

Gu Jiusi halted everyone at the city walls and walked alone toward the army.

In the morning light, the yellow sand stretched endlessly, shimmering with golden hues. Clad in red robes and carrying a single sword, Gu Jiusi advanced toward the thousands of troops.

Without pause, without hesitation—though facing countless soldiers, he went forth undaunted.

He stopped a hundred zhang away from the city walls. Zhou Gaolang rode at the front, with Ye Shi'an and Zhou Ye mounted side by side behind him. They spotted Gu Jiusi from afar, watching as the wind whipped through his sleeves and hair ribbons, making him strikingly conspicuous amid the vast expanse of yellow sand.They did not slow their pace, and Gu Jiusi remained motionless. At the last moment, as Zhou Gaolang approached him, Gu Jiusi suddenly raised his voice, dropped to one knee, and shouted, "Long live the Emperor! May you live ten thousand years!"

Hearing this, Zhou Gaolang abruptly tightened his reins, stopping just before Gu Jiusi.

With Zhou Gaolang's halt, the entire army came to an abrupt stop. Gu Jiusi knelt before Zhou Gaolang, his expression calm and composed.

"Gu Jiusi," Zhou Gaolang frowned, "what are you up to now?"

"Your Majesty," Gu Jiusi respectfully presented the imperial edict with both hands, "last night, the young emperor issued a decree abdicating the throne in your favor. Therefore, I have led the civil and military officials to the gates of the Eastern Capital to welcome Your Majesty into the city!"

Upon hearing this, everyone was shocked. After a brief moment of astonishment, Zhou Gaolang looked quietly at Gu Jiusi. "If I enter the Eastern Capital, what will Generals Sima, Wei, and Yang say?"

"Then may I ask how Your Majesty intends to enter the Eastern Capital?"

Gu Jiusi raised his eyes to look at Zhou Gaolang. Zhou Gaolang raised an eyebrow. "How I enter the Eastern Capital—what does it have to do with them?"

"If Your Majesty dismounts now, removes your armor, and sheathes your sword, then everyone in the Eastern Capital—soldiers, civilians, and court officials alike—will welcome Your Majesty into the city with the rites befitting a sage ruler."

"And if I do not?"

"If Your Majesty refuses," Gu Jiusi calmly drew his sword and planted it in the yellow sand beside him, "Emperor Gaozu once bestowed upon me the Son of Heaven's Sword, granting me the authority to strike down foolish rulers above and execute treacherous ministers below. Emperor Gaozu also bestowed upon me the name Chengjue, hoping I would be as virtuous as jade, a pillar of the state, guarding the people in all directions. Today, I, Gu Jiusi, stand before the gates of the Eastern Capital. If Your Majesty does not remove your armor, you may only pass by stepping over my corpse."

Zhou Gaolang fell silent. He looked up and saw that on the city walls of the Eastern Capital, soldiers had already arrayed their weapons, clearly prepared for defense.

Beneath the city gate, court officials stood holding their ceremonial tablets, silently watching the standoff.

Zhou Gaolang remained silent for a long time before finally saying, "Jiusi, I never expected you to go to such lengths. But I promised the soldiers..."

"Your Majesty promised the soldiers to reward the army," Gu Jiusi immediately responded. "My Gu Family is willing to exhaust our wealth to compensate the soldiers."

Hearing this, everyone was stunned. Gu Jiusi's eyes were clear and resolute as he looked at Zhou Gaolang and continued, "Your Majesty, I understand your concerns. You worry about the army's morale. Now that the young emperor has abdicated, you are the rightful ruler of Great Xia and cannot be accused of treason."

With this, Zhou Gaolang's greatest worry—the army's morale—was resolved. In the future, even if the soldiers discovered they had been deceived, Zhou Gaolang had not committed treason, and they would remain blameless. Zhou Gaolang's ascension to the throne was honorable and just. They no longer had any leverage over Zhou Gaolang or reason to rebel. If Zhou Gaolang remained uneasy about them, he could gradually strip them of their power in the future.

"As for the city, the three generals have already reached an agreement with me to welcome Your Majesty as the ruler of the land. Your Majesty, together with the three generals, can join forces to resist Liu Xingzhi. The national treasury will be entirely at Your Majesty's disposal, so there is no need to worry about military funds."

According to Zhou Gaolang's original plan, after battling Wei Dacheng and the others, he would lack the strength to protect the Eastern Capital. It would be better to plunder the city for military funds, then withdraw and wear down Liu Xingzhi by prolonging the war. But now, Wei Dacheng was not fighting him, and he had become the legitimate emperor. There was no longer any need to plunder for military funds. Plundering the Eastern Capital would only earn him an extremely bad reputation and gain him nothing."Finally, the rewards promised by His Majesty shall be fully provided by my Gu Family. My wife, Lady Liu, is known throughout the nation as a wealthy merchant. Today, my family is willing to exhaust all our wealth to compensate the soldiers. I only ask that all troops lay down their arms and enter the Eastern Capital today!"

Zhou Gaolang remained silent, watching Gu Jiusi intently. Meeting his gaze, Gu Jiusi finally said: "Your Majesty, what you feared has been resolved by me."

"At this very moment, my wife is repairing the Yellow River embankments. I heard there was heavy rain today, and I imagine the floods must be raging."

As Gu Jiusi spoke, Liu Yu Ru's image surfaced in his mind.

At the Yellow River section, Liu Yu Ru stood linked with others, long since having lost consciousness. She could only repeatedly murmur Gu Jiusi's name in her heart.

He was her faith, and her perseverance.

"At Yuzhou border, my brother Shen Ming is defending the city walls with Ye Yun, leading eighty thousand troops against three hundred thousand invaders."

At Yuzhou border, soldiers swarmed up siege ladders like ants, everyone drenched in blood. War drums shook the heavens, battle cries pierced the clouds. Shen Ming knocked back a soldier with his spear and roared: "Don't let them climb up! Kill them all!"

"My uncle Jiang He died together with Luo Zishang in the palace last night."

Gu Jiusi's voice trembled slightly.

"We have upheld the late Emperor's convictions. We have fulfilled our youthful promises. Your Majesty was once a heroic son of Great Xia too. I beg Your Majesty," Gu Jiusi kowtowed, voice choked with emotion, "do not betray our burning loyalty, remember your original aspirations."

Zhou Gaolang still remained silent, as if weighing his options. Zhou Ye tightened his grip on the reins, watching the kneeling Gu Jiusi. He suddenly recalled their drinking session in Yangzhou years ago, and the lofty ambitions they had sworn to each other.

He remembered Liu Yu Ru's scolding words—What do you think Sister Wanzhi liked about you?

He stared at Gu Jiusi, muscles tensing.

Ye Shi'an watched Gu Jiusi too.

The long march had calmed both him and Zhou Ye, the impact of hatred gradually fading. As he looked at the prostrate Gu Jiusi, his mind filled with memories of their school days, the summer cicadas chirping in Yangzhou.

Gu Jiusi had kept his promises. But what about Ye Shi'an?

Ye Shi'an lifted his head toward the Eastern Capital—If I cannot become a renowned minister, at least I shouldn't become a rebel.

Under the distant city tower, Li Yuchang watched them from afar. Seeing Gu Jiusi kneeling motionless, he unexpectedly stepped forward under everyone's gaze. Reaching Gu Jiusi, he silently bent down to help him up.

Gu Jiusi looked up at Li Yuchang, who brushed the yellow dust from his clothes and helped him sit. Then flipping his robes, Li Yuchang sat directly on the sandy ground and declared loudly: "If Your Majesty refuses to disarm today, you'll have to tread over our bodies to enter the Eastern Capital."

After Li Yuchang spoke, Qin Nan emerged from the city gate, flipped his robes, and sat beside him.

Then one official after another filed out from the city, seating themselves behind them.

Within a hundred yards, the space became filled with hundreds of officials.

Though mere scholars, they sat fearlessly before the Eastern Capital's gates, using their flesh as shields.

Zhou Gaolang knew that if he truly led his troops to trample these men, he would forever lose the support of the literati.

And the common people in the city, enraged by these men's blood, would surely ignite a fierce battle the moment they entered.Indeed, Gu Jiusi was right—he had already cleared every obstacle, leaving no reason for refusal.

Yet these words could not come from him. If he spoke them, it would be seen as going back on his word, chilling the hearts of those who followed him.

Zhou Gaolang remained silent in contemplation, for this was too momentous a decision to be made lightly.

Amidst the silence broken only by the wind, Zhou Ye watched them quietly, his gaze drifting into the distance.

He observed the towering city walls, the morning light spilling over them, and the tassel of the Son of Heaven's Sword swaying beside Gu Jiusi. Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath.

He caught the scent of yellow dust in the wind, as if transported back to the day Qin Wan Zhi had died.

She had said, "Live well."

She had also said, "I wish my husband would remain youthful at heart forever."

Zhou Ye slowly opened his eyes, then dismounted from his horse. Under the astonished gazes of all present, he seated himself beside Gu Jiusi.

Immediately after, Ye Shi'an also dismounted and took a seat beside Gu Jiusi.

"Ye'er..." Zhou Gaolang was deeply shocked. Zhou Ye spoke calmly, "Father, the common people are innocent. Vengeance has been served, and hatred should have passed. We are not without alternatives. If we continue down this path, how are we any different from Fan Yu or Luo Zishang?"

"I understand your concerns, but if we attack the Eastern Capital today, it will be a fight to the death with mutual destruction. If we can enter the city peacefully, each soldier will receive five taels of silver, paid from the national treasury."

"The Zhou army should be a force of benevolence and righteousness, and you should be a wise and enlightened ruler. As your son, if I cannot dissuade you today, I must atone for it. If you insist on entering the Eastern Capital, you will have to tread over my body first."

Hearing this, Zhou Gaolang pursed his lips. He turned to Ye Shi'an and asked with a bitter smile, "Are you the same?"

"The same," Ye Shi'an replied serenely.

"Shi'an once strayed from the right path, but fortunately, a friend awakened me. We scholars establish ourselves in this world to benefit the people. We despise the likes of Luo Zishang and Fan Yu because they plunged the world into chaos for their selfish desires. Your Majesty, turning back from error is also a form of atonement."

Zhou Gaolang fell silent. After a long while, a soldier's voice emerged from the crowd.

"Forget it, Your Majesty," someone shouted from behind, "we don't need the money. Five taels is plenty—I still want to keep my life to care for my aging mother."

Once one person spoke up, many others echoed the sentiment.

Zhou Gaolang listened quietly, his eyes sweeping over the scene. Gu Jiusi led the court officials, sitting cross-legged on the ground, forming a line that stretched all the way to the gates of the Eastern Capital.

After several rounds of changes, the court now brimmed with many young faces. Bathed in the morning light, they resembled radiant statues, their features vividly imprinted in Zhou Gaolang's eyes. He sat silently on his horse for a long time before finally raising his hand and removing his iron helmet.

"Encamp the army outside the city and enter unarmed!" Zhou Gaolang declared loudly. "Soldiers entering the city must not roam or harass the people—violators will be executed immediately. In ten days, every soldier will receive five taels as a reward!"

After his proclamation, cheers erupted from the surrounding civilians. Gu Jiusi smiled, gazing at the rising sun in the distance.

Meanwhile, by the Yellow River, the scene was utterly devastated.

After the heavy rain, as the clouds parted and the sun emerged, the floodwaters finally began to recede.

People started systematically reinforcing the embankments. When Liu Yu Ru heard Mr. Li exclaim, "It's finally done," she could hold on no longer and collapsed straight to the ground.As she fell, she saw the sunlight glinting off the water droplets on the leaves, casting a kaleidoscope of colors.

It's over, she thought. Everything is over.

On the thirty-first day of the eighth month of the first year of Kangping, Zhou Gaolang entered the Eastern Capital.

He entered the Eastern Capital peacefully, without deploying a single soldier, and made his way into the Imperial City.

The anticipated great battle did not occur. Apart from a hall reduced to ashes by fire, the Eastern Capital remained nearly unscathed.

After Zhou Gaolang entered the palace, Zhou Ye went to arrange the remaining affairs. Zhou Gaolang kept Gu Jiusi behind. One sitting and one standing, they remained in silence for a long time before Zhou Gaolang finally said, "The ruler you desire shouldn't be someone like me."

Gu Jiusi didn't respond. Zhou Gaolang continued, "Then why are you still helping me?"

"Your Majesty," Gu Jiusi lowered his head and spoke calmly, "when Yuru married me back then, the person she wanted to marry wasn't someone like me either."

Then he looked up at Zhou Gaolang: "But she changed me."

"She made me understand that I can't always choose to escape. I can't always expect there to be a naturally wise ruler in this world who can make the right judgments at all times. After all, humans are only human. And as a subject, if I am dissatisfied with this country, I should change it; if I am dissatisfied with this ruler, I should change him too. Just as Your Majesty would have become a tyrant, but haven't you now laid down your arms and entered the city?"

"If that's what you think," Zhou Gaolang laughed, "you don't have to choose me."

"Some paths are dead ends after all."

Gu Jiusi answered respectfully. Zhou Gaolang fell silent, and after a long while, he sighed: "Actually, I know you didn't choose me for the reasons you stated. While that may be part of it, in truth, the one you truly chose is Ye'er."

Hearing this, Gu Jiusi's expression remained unchanged.

He wasn't surprised at all that Zhou Gaolang knew his thoughts. Whether it was Jiang He, Fan Xuan, or Zhou Gaolang, these men who had long mastered the art of power - how could they fail to see through his intentions?

Yet Gu Jiusi felt no fear. He said calmly, "The one I ultimately serve is the Zhou family."

"Actually, you're right," Zhou Gaolang said slowly. "I'm not suited to be a ruler. I'm only suited to be a blade. A ruler doesn't need to be particularly clever, nor particularly decisive, but there's one thing," Zhou Gaolang looked at Gu Jiusi, "he cannot lack benevolence."

"I never actually wanted to be emperor," Zhou Gaolang sighed. "I was just forced into this position. But in my heart, what truly belongs to me is the battlefield."

These words made Gu Jiusi dare not respond. Zhou Gaolang picked up his teacup, took a sip, then said composedly, "I will lead the expedition myself."

Zhou Gaolang's sudden declaration made Gu Jiusi freeze. Zhou Gaolang continued, "I will pass the throne to Ye'er, then I'll lead my brothers back to the battlefield. I'm already old. The only thing I can do now is conquer this world for Ye'er and Ping'er."

"I'm not a good man, Gu Jiusi," Zhou Gaolang looked at him intently, his voice grave. "But I'm not as bad as you think either. I'm just an ordinary person."

After finishing his conversation with Zhou Gaolang, Gu Jiusi walked out of the palace feeling weary. When he reached the gate, he saw Zhou Ye and Ye Shi'an standing at the entrance.

The two watched him quietly. Gu Jiusi also remained silent. After a long while, it was Zhou Ye who finally spoke first: "I'm sorry."

Hearing this, Gu Jiusi smiled.

"I told you back in Linfen," he said calmly, "if I accept this apology from you, it means I still consider you my brother."

Zhou Ye didn't speak. He stood rooted to the spot. Gu Jiusi walked forward, reached out and put his arms around both their shoulders, saying cheerfully, "Alright, alright, it's all in the past. Can't you two stop overthinking things?"Ye Shi'an stumbled forward, nearly falling as Gu Jiusi pulled him along. Staggering alongside Gu Jiusi, he heard the latter cheerfully declare, "Today calls for a grand drinking session—we won't return until we're thoroughly drunk!"

"Gu Jiusi," Ye Shi'an finally frowned in irritation as he was dragged along, "stop tugging at my neck like that."

Upon hearing this, Gu Jiusi burst into laughter and finally adjusted his grip, leading both of them into the inner hall.

That night, they drank themselves into a stupor. As they drank, they shared their experiences over the past month.

"I'm truly terrified of fighting now..." Ye Shi'an shook his head. "Every time I close my eyes, I see blood—blood everywhere. I kept wondering whether what I did was right or wrong. I thought there was no turning back for me."

As he spoke, he clutched Gu Jiusi's sleeve and wept, "I thought I could never turn back."

Gu Jiusi watched him cry with a smile, patting his back while glancing gently at Zhou Ye beside them. "How could there be no turning back?" he said softly. Then he laughed, "Aren't I still here? As brothers, how could I watch you walk down the wrong path?"

Hearing this, Zhou Ye was momentarily stunned. After a pause, he raised his cup solemnly and said, "This toast is for you," addressing him formally by name, "Gu Jiusi."

Gu Jiusi returned home late after midnight, only to find two coffins placed in the main hall. He stared blankly for a moment before finally instructing, "Set up the mourning hall. Notify the master, the first madam, the young madam, and my mother-in-law... tell them all to return."

The steward acknowledged the order and withdrew. Gu Jiusi dismissed everyone else and sat alone in the hall, keeping vigil beside the two lifeless bodies in the coffins.

White ribbons fluttered in the hall. Gu Jiusi recalled his childhood when he first arrived in the Eastern Capital. Jiang He, turning his back to Jiang Rou, had taken him out to play in the streets. Though less prosperous than now, the Eastern Capital was still bustling with crowds. Seeing a fire-breathing performance, he had dragged Jiang He into the throng. Small and unable to see, Gu Jiusi noticed other children perched on their fathers' shoulders. Tugging at Jiang He, he pointed at one such child and pleaded, "Uncle, I want that too! I want it!"

Jiang He's face darkened as he tried to pull him away, but Gu Jiusi plopped to the ground, wailing loudly. Relenting with a sigh, Jiang He gritted his teeth, took him to buy a mask, and then returned to hoist him onto his shoulders.

"Listen, Gu Jiusi," Jiang He grumbled through clenched teeth, "if you don't take good care of me when I'm old, I'll beat you to death."

Gu Jiusi felt drunk, as if he could see Jiang He's vibrant, lively figure flickering in the candlelight. He raised a hand to his forehead and let out a low sob.

"Now I can take care of you..." he thought, "but why did you have to leave like this?"

After a night of heavy drinking, Gu Jiusi received news the next morning: Zhou Gaolang had mustered troops overnight and dispatched them to support Yuzhou.

Soon after, Zhou Gaolang prepared for his enthronement ceremony. Two days later, he formally ascended the throne.

His coronation was remarkably austere, devoid of any extravagance or grandeur, reflecting his own simplicity. On the day of his enthronement, he appointed Zhou Ye as crown prince and tasked him with overseeing the Eastern Capital as regent. The very next morning, Zhou Gaolang led his soldiers straight to Yuzhou.Within three days after Zhou Gaolang's departure, the Gu family members gradually returned one after another. With Zhou Gaolang's support, Shen Ming and Ye Yun also made their way back to the Eastern Capital. Liu Yu Ru's return was delayed by a few days due to illness, but she finally arrived in the Eastern Capital on the eve of Jiang He's funeral.

When she returned, the Eastern Capital had already regained its former bustling appearance, as the minor military unrest had been quelled and normalcy restored by the very next day.

Gu Jiusi came to the city gate to welcome her. From her carriage, Liu Yu Ru spotted him from afar—dressed in a dark red robe, his hair loosely tied with a ribbon, holding a small fan as he stood by the gate, every bit the image of an elegant young nobleman.

As her carriage drew near, he leaped onto it. Liu Yu Ru was leaning to one side, cradling a hand warmer. He hurried over to examine her, saying, "I heard you were ill. I wanted to go to you, but matters here kept me too occupied to break away."

Liu Yu Ru remained silent. Gu Jiusi continued, "Did you eat anything on your journey?"

She still appeared listless from her illness and paid him no mind.

Gu Jiusi couldn't help but chuckle. "Are you so ill that you won't even speak to me?"

"Tell me," Liu Yu Ru finally spoke, "exactly how much silver was spent on rewarding the three armies?"

Hearing this, Gu Jiusi was taken aback, then laughed. "So that's what you're upset about?"

"The money wasn't earned by you," Liu Yu Ru pushed him lightly, discontent evident. "You spend it as if it were paper."

"I was wrong," Gu Jiusi said, blinking as he leaned closer. "Forgive me. I promise it won't happen again."

Liu Yu Ru didn't respond. She stared at him intently. Under her unwavering gaze, Gu Jiusi soon grew somewhat embarrassed. "Why are you staring at me like that?"

"Gu Jiusi," Liu Yu Ru sighed, reaching up to pinch his cheek. "This face of yours truly comes at a high cost."

"A thousand pieces of gold couldn't buy your affection."

Gu Jiusi happily moved closer and embraced her. Holding her in his arms, feeling her presence, the many playful remarks he had prepared suddenly vanished.

He rested against Liu Yu Ru as she gently combed her fingers through his hair, asking softly, "Is Shen Ming alright?"

"He sustained some injuries," Gu Jiusi replied, listening to her heartbeat. "Ye Yun is accompanying him. They're on their way back now, and you'll see them in a couple of days."

"As long as they're safe."

Liu Yu Ru let out a sigh of relief. After leaning against her for a while, Gu Jiusi finally said, "Don't worry about the money. Brother Zhou and I have discussed it—we'll borrow part of the sum, and the treasury will cover the rest. The borrowed portion will be repaid within five years, or we'll offer equivalent collateral."

Surprised by this, Liu Yu Ru paused, then laughed. "I never expected you'd actually manage to save the money."

"I couldn't let you exhaust every bit of the business you worked so hard to build just for my sake."

Lifting his head to look at her, Gu Jiusi added, "If I were still like this, it'd be better to just gamble away my days in Yangzhou."

"Don't talk nonsense," Liu Yu Ru chided, poking his forehead before holding him close. "After all, I'm an Imperial Order Lady now. If you were still in Yangzhou, could I have attained such a title?"

Gu Jiusi leaned against her, feeling inexplicably joyful. No matter what Liu Yu Ru said, her presence alone filled him with happiness.The two returned together to the Gu residence. Since the rest of the family was still in Yangzhou, only the two of them remained in the house. Gu Jiusi accompanied her as she freshened up and then had a meal with her. When night fell, Gu Jiusi held her in his arms. Liu Yu Ru felt somewhat tense, and Gu Jiusi, noticing this, pressed his forehead against her neck and said softly, "You're still unwell—I won't disturb you."

Hearing this, Liu Yu Ru couldn't help but smile.

"Tell me about the Eastern Capital," she said.

Liu Yu Ru reached out and took his hand. "I heard you were incredibly impressive there."

"Then you tell me about your experiences at the Yellow River," Gu Jiusi replied gently. "I heard you were incredibly impressive too."

At his words, Liu Yu Ru turned to face him, wrapped her arms around his neck, and began recounting her time at the Yellow River in detail. Afterwards, Gu Jiusi shared his stories of the Eastern Capital. They spoke calmly, as if all the life-and-death moments had faded into dust—as long as the other was there, nothing else seemed to matter.

By the time they finished talking, both were tired. Leaning against Gu Jiusi, Liu Yu Ru finally asked, "What about Luo Zishang's subordinates?"

"They all fled the night of the palace uprising. I sent people to capture them—most took their own lives when caught. Only one named Ming Yi told me he wanted to see you."

"See me?" Liu Yu Ru was puzzled.

Gu Jiusi nodded. "I've detained him. Tomorrow, I'll bury my uncle. The day after, we'll hold a private burial for Luo Zishang. I'll release Ming Yi then to pay his respects."

"Aren't you angry with him?" Liu Yu Ru asked, confused by Gu Jiusi's arrangements.

Gu Jiusi replied calmly, "Luo Zishang was right about one thing."

"He wronged the world, but my Gu Family truly wronged him."

"Had he lived, his crimes would have warranted a thousand cuts. But now that he's gone, let the dead rest in peace."

As they spoke, they gradually drifted off to sleep.

The next day, they accompanied Jiang He up the mountain for his burial.

The Jiang Family had ancestral graves in the Eastern Capital. Although Jiang He had purchased a burial plot in Yangzhou, Jiang Rou ultimately decided to bury both Jiang He and Luo Zishang in the Eastern Capital.

"He bought that plot for that young woman," Jiang Rou explained. "She's married to someone else now—it's time to let go. If he were alive, he would think the same."

On the day of the burial, many followed to watch Jiang He's coffin being carried up the mountain. Though flamboyant in temperament, Jiang He was actually very skilled in handling relationships and had many friends in the Eastern Capital. The day he was laid to rest was clear and sunny, much like his own vibrant spirit—even in departure, he left with brilliance.

Perhaps such a life held no regrets. He had done all he needed to do and fulfilled his wishes, so the mourners were not overwhelmed with grief. Only Jiang Rou bowed her head, weeping softly. Gu Lang Hua held her without a word, while Gu Jiusi, dressed in mourning clothes, personally oversaw the burial.

After the tombstone was erected, everyone dispersed. Ye Yun stood before the grave for a while, with Shen Ming waiting quietly nearby. When they descended the mountain, Shen Ming finally said, "Let's go."

Ye Yun snapped out of her thoughts, nodded, and went down with Shen Ming.

On their way down, neither spoke. After hesitating for a moment, Shen Ming reached out and took Ye Yun's hand.

"I'll treat you well from now on."He spoke clumsily, and upon hearing these words, Ye Yun was momentarily stunned before she laughed. "Don't be jealous," she immediately said, "I was just momentarily infatuated in my youth."

"Someone like Lord Jiang," Ye Yun said with a distant expression, "is far too radiant.Such a charismatic and flamboyant person ought to be admired by all, arriving in this world with pride and leaving with grace.

On the second day after Jiang He was buried, the Gu Family quietly carried Luo Zishang up the mountain. That day, Gu Jiusi brought Ming Yi out of prison. When Ming Yi saw Luo Zishang's coffin, his expression seemed dazed. Gu Jiusi calmly said, "If you're willing, see him off on his final journey."

"Aren't you afraid I'll run away?"

Ming Yi raised his hand to brush over Luo Zishang's coffin. Gu Jiusi shook his head and said, "If you run, I'll just catch you again."

Ming Yi didn't speak. After a long while, he said hoarsely, "Thank you."

With that, Ming Yi walked to the wooden poles in front of Luo Zishang's coffin and, along with the others, lifted the coffin.

Gu Jiusi did not let anyone else know about Luo Zishang's burial. After quietly carrying him up the mountain, Gu Jiusi and Ming Yi buried him together. Then, Gu Jiusi erected a pre-prepared tombstone at the grave. Ming Yi looked at the name on the tombstone, which read: "Tomb of Jiang Zhiren."

"Jiang Zhiren..."

Ming Yi stared at the name, somewhat bewildered. Gu Jiusi stood beside him and explained, "Mother said this was the name my uncle had chosen for his child back then. 'A gentleman reflects nine times, a gentleman knows benevolence and virtue.' He shouldn't even in death be without a name of his own."

Ming Yi remained silent. He had already heard about Luo Zishang's life experiences from Gu Jiusi earlier. He quietly gazed at the tombstone. Gu Jiusi turned to him and said, "You mentioned you had something to tell Yu Ru. What is it?"

"To return something."

Ming Yi snapped back to reality and then said, "Come with me."

With that, Ming Yi led them down the mountain.

The three of them arrived at the Luo residence. The Luo residence had now been sealed off. Gu Jiusi followed the proper procedures and reported to Zhou Ye, then led Ming Yi inside.

The once elegant and splendid Luo residence was now gloomy and eerie, covered in dust. Weeds grew wild in the courtyard, adding to the desolation.

Ming Yi led Gu Jiusi and Liu Yu Ru inside, speaking slowly, "The master always kept this item well-preserved. After Young Master Xiao's death, the master told me that if I ever saw Madam Liu, I should return it to her."

As they spoke, the three arrived at Luo Zishang's bedroom. Ming Yi activated a hidden mechanism and led them into a secret chamber.

He then opened a cabinet and took out an umbrella from inside. He handed it to Liu Yu Ru and said calmly, "Madam, it's time to return this to its rightful owner."

Liu Yu Ru stared blankly at the umbrella and finally recognized it as the paper umbrella she had casually taken out at the Yangzhou docks.

Ming Yi held the umbrella respectfully. Liu Yu Ru looked at the orchid pattern painted on it, as if transported back to those days in Yangzhou, to the moment when Luo Zishang suddenly turned his head in the crowd.

She reached out her hand, countless images of Luo Zishang flashing through her mind.

Yet what ultimately lingered in her thoughts was the sight of Xiao Ming hanging from the city gate, the sunset as red as blood.

He should have been a fine young man too.

As Liu Yu Ru took the umbrella, tears suddenly fell. Ming Yi was momentarily startled, then smiled.

"To earn a single tear from Madam," Ming Yi said gently, "the master can rest without regrets."That evening, Liu Yu Ru and Gu Jiusi accompanied Ming Yi for a meal at his favorite restaurant in the Eastern Capital. Ming Yi spoke of his childhood—how his family, originally impoverished farmers, had their land forcibly taken, leaving his parents with no choice but to sell him off. From then on, he became a servant.

As a child, his master took pleasure in abusing children, and his life remained bleak and hopeless until he was eleven, when Luo Zishang bought him.

By that time, Luo Zishang was already a disciple under Zhang Huai Li, the esteemed Young Master Luo revered by the world.

"He said I had a talent for martial arts, though I was already quite old by then," Ming Yi said calmly. "But if Young Master said I could do it, then I could."

"You all..." Liu Yu Ru's voice was hoarse. "Were you all like this?"

"Like what?" Ming Yi seemed puzzled.

Liu Yu Ru rasped, "Xiao Ming said he was also picked up by Luo Zishang."

"Yes," Ming Yi smiled. "Young Master Xiao was the same. Originally, he was supposed to train in martial arts with me, but later, Young Master discovered his exceptional intelligence and recommended him to Master Zhang."

"Since Master Zhang gave him so much," Gu Jiusi frowned, "why did he still want to kill him?"

Hearing this, Ming Yi fell silent for a long time before finally saying, "It wasn't Young Master who wanted to kill Master Zhang—it was Master Zhang who wanted to kill Young Master."

"Young Master intended to honor Master Zhang for a lifetime, but when Master Zhang learned the truth—that Young Master was not the orphaned heir of the Luo family—he sought to kill him. That day, Young Master had a sword wound in his chest, inflicted by Master Zhang."

"If Master Zhang hadn't stabbed Young Master, hadn't forced him to kill him and live on, perhaps..." Ming Yi trailed off, then smiled faintly. "It's all in the past now. Let it be."

Ming Yi finished his meal properly, and Gu Jiusi and Liu Yu Ru escorted him back to the prison. After offering a few words of advice, Gu Jiusi reassured him, "Soon, Lord Li will personally preside over your case. He has always been just, so there's no need to worry. What you've done will be accounted for, and what you haven't done won't be unjustly blamed on you."

"I understand," Ming Yi smiled. "Thank you for your concern."

Gu Jiusi didn't respond. He had never imagined that he and Luo Zishang's people would one day speak like this.

After a moment of silence, he simply nodded, then took Liu Yu Ru's hand and turned to leave after bidding Ming Yi farewell.

Kneeling on the ground, Ming Yi watched the retreating figures of Gu Jiusi and Liu Yu Ru, hand in hand.

Gu Jiusi's build was similar to Luo Zishang's, and as Ming Yi looked at him, it was as if he were seeing another Luo Zishang. Suddenly, he called out, "Lord Gu!"

Gu Jiusi halted and turned back with Liu Yu Ru, seeing Ming Yi hesitate before asking, "What does it feel like... to be a good person?"

Gu Jiusi was silent for a moment before replying, "It feels as if there is nothing in this world that isn't good or kind, as if your heart is clear and free from guilt. To live with joy and die without regret."

Hearing this, Ming Yi smiled. "If there is a next life," he said gently, "I would wish to be like Lord Gu."

Gu Jiusi didn't speak. After a long while, he finally said, "If there is a next life, may you be born into a peaceful world, living a smooth and carefree life."

"Thank you."

Ming Yi smiled as he spoke. Gu Jiusi took Liu Yu Ru's hand and finally walked out.

Just as they exited the prison, they heard commotion from behind. Gu Jiusi turned back to see a guard rushing out, exclaiming, "My lord, Ming Yi has taken his own life!"Gu Jiusi was not surprised. He nodded and then said, "Give them a proper burial."

After speaking, he walked out with Liu Yu Ru. Once outside, the weather was rather cold. Gu Jiusi raised his hand and placed it on Liu Yu Ru's shoulder, covering her with his sleeve to shield her from the wind.

As they walked together in the night, Liu Yu Ru suddenly said, "Jiusi."

"Hmm?"

"I still want to earn money, lots of it."

"Alright."

"But this time, it's not for you," Liu Yu Ru spoke up, turning to the person beside her with a smile. "I want to establish charity halls and schools. I've thought it through," she said gently, "I don't care what good deeds Luo Zishang, Xiao Ming, or Ming Yi might have done, because that doesn't change their fate. But I hope this world will never again produce people like them."

"If Xiao Ming has talent, there should be a place where he can study properly. If Ming Yi comes from poverty, there should be a path forward, so he wouldn't suffer endless torment as a child with no means to survive. Even if Luo Zishang was abandoned at a temple, his adoptive father shouldn't have been beaten to death without any chance for justice..."

"This world shouldn't have so many people like them."

"Alright," Gu Jiusi held her close, speaking gently. "I'll accompany you in this."

Hearing this, Liu Yu Ru turned to look at him. The man before her had remained unchanged over all these years—having experienced the world's trials, yet forever maintaining that clear, pure quality.

Ordinary people might sink in the mire or despair in darkness.

But Gu Jiusi was the brightest light in people's hearts. If he found himself in a muddy pond, he would cleanse the filth and restore the water to clarity; if he stood in darkness, he would become his own lantern, illuminating the path ahead.

He was like a rope for people to hold onto, a protective wall—guarding everyone's moral boundaries, never yielding.

Because such people existed, more souls could open their eyes in the dark night, witness the dawn breaking through, and halt the endless crimes of this world.

Gu Jiusi held Liu Yu Ru as they walked side by side, slowly making their way home.

Liu Yu Ru looked up and saw the brilliant starlight above, breathing in the scent of mountain flowers carried on the wind.

"Gu Jiusi."

She suddenly called his name. Gu Jiusi lifted his gaze to meet hers, and Liu Yu Ru pressed her lips together in a smile.

"Nothing," she said, taking his hand with a smile. "I'm taking you home."

In the first year of Kangping, when the Mourning Emperor of Great Xia abolished the cabinet and plunged the realm into chaos, Gu Jiusi masterminded the overall strategy—capturing Yangzhou, rescuing Yuzhou, quelling the great Yellow River disaster, protecting the people of Eastern Capital, and saving Great Xia from peril.

In the ninth month of the first year of Anjian, the Mourning Emperor abdicated to the Palace Front Commandant Zhou Gaolang. At that time, Great Xia faced war, and Emperor Taizong personally led the campaign, leaving Crown Prince Ye to supervise the state. Gu Jiusi was promoted to Left Chancellor, Ye Shi'an to Right Chancellor, and Shen Ming to Palace Front Commandant, remaining to guard Eastern Capital.

During Crown Prince Ye's regency, he reduced taxes and corvée labor, expanded trade, and subsidized farming. Meanwhile, the wealthy merchant Gu Liu Shi established charity halls domestically and fostered commercial exchanges abroad, introducing grain and advanced techniques from various countries to Great Xia, leading to abundant resources and prosperous, peaceful citizens.

In the third month of the fourth year of Anjian, Emperor Taizong conquered Yizhou, unifying the realm. Returning to Eastern Capital, his chronic illnesses from years of campaigning proved incurable, and unable to bear the burdens of administration, he passed the throne to the crown prince and designated the child Zhou Ping as heir.

The day Zhou Ye ascended the throne was the eighth day of the fourth month in the fourth year of Anjian. The spring flowers bloomed beautifully as Zhou Ye conducted the ceremony at the altar.

Thanks to Great Xia's extensive foreign relations, envoys from various nations came to offer congratulations that day. With foreign delegates and court officials combined, the altar was packed full.

Zhou Ye traveled from the palace to the altar by carriage, wearing imperial robes—black above and crimson below, adorned with emblematic patterns, complemented by a knee covering, pendants, red ceremonial shoes, and a twelve-beaded crown. Zhou Ye felt somewhat nervous, straightening his back and keeping his gaze fixed ahead. From the moment he left the palace, he heard the cheers of the people. As his carriage passed, he saw citizens kneeling along the route.

Listening to these sounds, he felt his heart gradually settle into calm assurance.This was his Great Xia.

This was the nation that he, Gu Jiusi, Shen Ming, Ye Shi'an, Liu Yuru, Ye Yun, Li Yuchang... each of them had devoted their lives to build and were now about to dedicate themselves to.

He traveled from the palace to the altar, where eunuchs assisted him in alighting from the carriage. As he stepped into the altar grounds, he saw a red carpet stretching all the way to the high platform. Upon that platform stood the nation's most important ministers, positioned two per step on either side.

They were all dressed in the magnificent robes reserved for sacrificial ceremonies—Gu Jiusi in red, Ye Shi'an in white, each wearing jade crowns and ancient swords suspended at their waists. Below them stood Li Yuchang, Shen Ming, Qin Nan, Fu Baoyuan...

Everyone watched him quietly, their faces bearing smiles like the morning sun or spring light.

Following the rituals, Zhou Ye ascended the platform as the ceremonial official chanted prayers.

Meanwhile, atop the Eastern Capital's city tower, Ye Yun led Yun Yun and Song Xiang in a brisk climb up the steps.

"Yuru! Yuru!"

Ye Yun rushed toward the great bell on the tower, exclaiming joyfully, "He's here! His Majesty has reached the altar!"

Beside the bell stood a woman in purple, her expression gentle and her demeanor dignified.

This was Liu Yuru, the richest merchant in Great Xia, granted the title "Madam Liu" by Emperor Taizong of Zhou, and wife of the current Left Chancellor.

According to ancestral traditions, women were not permitted to attend the enthronement ceremony at the altar. However, to acknowledge Liu Yuru's contributions to Great Xia over the years, Zhou Ye specially appointed her as the bell-ringer for the ceremony.

When the bell tolled, the ritual would officially commence.

She was the first and only woman—and a merchant at that—to serve as bell-ringer in Great Xia's history. Yet such an honor seemed insignificant to Liu Yuru.

She remained as composed and serene as ever.

Ye Yun was far more excited. Seeing Liu Yuru's calm demeanor, she couldn't help but say, "Liu Yuru, are you a jade Bodhisattva? Can't you show some reaction? Aren't you happy? Brother Zhou is ascending the throne, our era is about to begin!"

Hearing this, Liu Yuru pressed her lips together and smiled. "Hasn't our era already begun long ago?"

Her words left Ye Yun momentarily stunned. Just then, a palace attendant rushed up and informed Liu Yuru, "Madam Liu, you may ring the bell now."

Nodding in acknowledgment, Liu Yuru raised her hands, grasped the wooden beam, and struck the ancient bell.

Once, twice, thrice...

For the Son of Heaven, she struck it nine times.

With the first strike, birds throughout the city startled into flight, colored ribbons descended from the sky, fireworks resounded across the Eastern Capital, and on pre-arranged stages everywhere, women's flowing sleeves blossomed like flowers while traditional music harmonized with the people's cheers, enveloping the capital.

Gu Jiusi lifted his face to the sunlight, gazing toward the distant city tower.

His vision traversed the altar walls, passed over rooftops and eaves, pierced through watchtowers and observatories, until it reached the highest point of the city tower.

Faintly, he could see a purple robe fluttering in the wind atop the tower, while flower-scented breezes swept across Great Xia's vast territory—

An age of song and dance, illuminating the mortal world.