Jiang Ruan looked at him with a smile, her skirt fluttering slightly in the breeze. Her eyes, clear as spring water, held something else—a chill like the winter wind sweeping across one's heart, leaving behind a block of ice that drained all warmth from the body.
Ye Lang struggled to speak. "Could it be... that the County Princess already has someone in her heart, and thus refuses to marry the Eighth Prince?"
Jiang Ruan smiled faintly. "What kind of thing is that you speak of?"
Ye Lang was stunned.
Tianzhu remained motionless, Luzhu's expression was grave, and Jiang Ruan regarded him coolly. She knew every word spoken today would inevitably reach that person's ears. Since he had personally staged such a fine performance for her, she might as well make it difficult for him to save face.
Scheming—who couldn't do it?
"My eldest brother is fighting valiantly on the front lines. How could I bear to marry in the capital? Even if I were to marry, it would only be to a true man of honor. The Da Jin Dynasty is not something to be defended by its women. Even I understand this simple truth—how could your Eighth Prince not know? Then, when he won't even dare to request His Majesty to send troops to protect the people of Da Jin, how can I entrust my life to him? If he lacks the courage to protect his own country, might there come a day when he can't even protect me?"
"I wish to marry a man, not a coward," Jiang Ruan said with a smile.
Her words left Ye Lang speechless, beads of cold sweat forming on his forehead. When these words reached Ye Li's ears, how could he not be furious? And if that anger were to be vented on him, wouldn't it be unjust?
"The County Princess's words are truly excessive," Ye Lang said. "The Eighth Prince is also in a difficult position."
"The relationship between the Fourth Prince and the Eighth Prince is indeed quite close," she replied indifferently. "Go back and tell your master that delusional fantasies are nothing but daydreams!"
What had begun as a pleasant conversation ended in discord. When Ye Lang left, his face was deathly pale, as if he couldn't bear Jiang Ruan's gaze, and his departure had the air of a hasty retreat.
When he arrived at that person's residence, it was just as expected. Though the man appeared composed on the surface, the smile at his lips had stiffened. After a long silence, the man seated leisurely picked up a cup of tea before him, lifted the lid, and took a shallow sip, his expression cold as ice. "This Prince had intended to be gentle, but since she refuses to appreciate kindness, there is no need for further hesitation." A cruel sneer flashed in his eyes. "Close the net."
...
That night in the capital was no different from any other. In early autumn, the sky always darkened earlier. Amid the ink-black night, the Brocade Hero King Manor was brightly lit. Xiao Shao sat in the high seat, his usually indifferent face now bearing a rare sternness.
Ye Feng, Jin Yi, and Jin Si stood on either side. Xiao Shao, as usual, burned the letter in his hand over a flame. The flickering firelight reflected in his pitch-black eyes, like beautiful black gemstones.
"Qi Si's information cannot be wrong," he said calmly. "Ye Li has made his move.""The Eighth Prince is truly audacious. This deal is so perilous, yet he fears not inviting a wolf into his house," Jin Si couldn't help but remark, his eyes filled with disdain. As the son of the Jin Dynasty's emperor, to commit such despicable acts—treating the lives of tens of thousands of border civilians as mere playthings, all to satisfy his own ambitions and selfish desires—such a man would be scorned wherever he went.
"By tomorrow morning, the news will reach the imperial court," Xiao Shao didn't respond to Jin Si's comment, instead tapping the table lightly. "This matter is of grave importance. If it's as Qi Si said, even Old Guan is in danger."
"General Guan?" Jin Yi frowned. "Master, should we warn Young Master Mo? With the Eighth Prince acting this way, the Crown Prince might be in peril."
"Go to Mo Cong's residence," Xiao Shao stood up, picking up the outer robe draped over the chair. "I'll head to the palace first."
...
The next morning, Lianqiao and Zisu helped Jiang Ruan rise and dress. As the weather had grown colder, Zisu carefully selected an eight-treasure brocade spring gown for Jiang Ruan before feeling at ease. After breakfast, since the courtyard was pleasantly cool and tranquil, Lianqiao moved a chair outside as usual. Jiang Ruan sat in the courtyard flipping through a book, while Zisu and Lianqiao took advantage of the fine weather to air out old books from the chest.
What was ordinarily a perfectly normal routine felt somewhat strange today. The maids sweeping the courtyard gazed at Jiang Ruan differently than usual. The servants in Princess Hall, all bestowed by Empress Dowager Yide, were typically well-mannered. Yet today, their glances seemed to carry a hint of scrutiny and contemplation. Their poorly concealed looks didn't escape Jiang Ruan's notice, but she remained silent, continuing her activities without reaction.
While Jiang Ruan maintained her composure, Zisu and Lianqiao also sensed something amiss. Just as they were about to question one of the maids, Luzhu hurried over, her face etched with anxiety. "Miss," she said urgently upon reaching Jiang Ruan, "I have urgent news to report."
Understanding, Zisu dismissed the curious maids lingering in the courtyard and helped Jiang Ruan back inside. Once the door was closed, before Jiang Ruan could ask, Luzhu blurted out, "Miss, word has come from the front—our forces fell into an ambush while engaging the Celestial Jin Kingdom. Of the hundred thousand soldiers, nearly all were annihilated, with fewer than thirty thousand barely holding on. General Guan is severely wounded, and Eldest Young Master..." She glanced worriedly at Jiang Ruan. "Eldest Young Master is missing. It's feared he's been captured by the Celestial Jin Kingdom."
Jiang Ruan's grip tightened involuntarily, and Zisu and Lianqiao paled in unison.
The consequences of returning defeated from battle were unknown, but the Emperor was likely furious. To go missing on the battlefield meant either certain death or capture by the enemy—both outcomes dire. If one surrendered, their entire family would be implicated and treated as enemy spies. Given Jiang Xin Zhi's character, he would never yield, meaning his fate would be a torturous death.
Since this news had reached the court, it was likely eighty percent true. The ominous speculation had become reality. Jiang Ruan's expression darkened like still water, her hand clenching the armrest of the chair, her lips faintly pale."Miss," Luzhu grasped Jiang Ruan's hand, her heart aching with sympathy. Jiang Ruan and Jiang Xin Zhi had only each other to rely on, and the deep bond between these siblings was evident to all around them. If there was anything in this world that could move Jiang Ruan's heart, Jiang Xin Zhi would be the first. Now, with Jiang Xin Zhi's fate uncertain and the outcome so shrouded in mystery, Jiang Ruan hadn't shed a single tear. Luzhu said, "Miss, if you want to cry, just let it out. Holding it in will only make you suffer more."
Jiang Ruan lowered her eyes and slowly withdrew her hand. In her past life, she had cried too many times, only to meet a tragic end in the end. In this life, with her vengeance still unfulfilled, what right did she have to weep?
A slow smile curved her lips, a smile so breathtakingly cruel it was like a poisonous flower blooming from hell—a fleeting glimpse of bleached bones, carrying with it a sinister and relentless vengeance: "In that case, there's no need to wait any longer."
...
In the Golden Hall, two factions of ministers were locked in heated debate.
One side insisted on punishing Jiang Xin Zhi and Guan Lianghan for their failure in leading the troops, while the other argued that since the generals were on the front lines, the soldiers were fighting hard, and they should be appeased rather than risk demoralizing the troops.
Jiang Xin Zhi was a rising star in the court, while Guan Lianghan was a tough nut to crack. Few in the court dared to speak up for these two, mostly just some upright and outspoken officials. Those who insisted on punishment were naturally those who couldn't bear to see others rise step by step—some with ulterior motives, others simply eager to kick them while they were down.
The Emperor watched coldly as the two factions argued until their faces turned red and their necks thickened. Amid the clamor, no one noticed the thoughtful look in the Emperor's eyes as he sat upon the dragon throne. After a moment, the Emperor turned to Ye Li, who stood to the side with his head bowed in respectful silence, and said, "Eighth Prince, what is your view on this matter?"
Ye Li stepped forward and bowed. "Your Majesty, this son believes that General Guan and Deputy General Jiang were both acting to protect the people of the Da Jin Dynasty. Since the situation remains unclear, it would be unwise to act rashly. It would be better to wait and see what truly happened."
"Eighth Prince," Zhao Guang interjected, "the battlefield is no child's play. Your Highness may be willing to wait, but the soldiers cannot afford to. By the time the truth is uncovered, the outcome of the battle may already be decided, and any further plans would be too late." Zhao Guang had always maintained a neutral stance in court, never deliberately opposing anyone. But now, with his own nephew in peril, he spoke bluntly, openly clashing with Ye Li before the entire court.
To those with ulterior motives, this behavior sparked another round of speculation. Zhao Guang's attitude suggested that even the facade of peace in the court was about to be torn apart—that the true storm of blood and strife, the struggle for the throne, was about to begin in earnest.
"General Zhao's words are mistaken," countered the Duke of Chen. Since Noble Consort Chen had been confined to the cold palace, the Duke's household had been subdued and restrained for a time. Now, however, he had unexpectedly stepped forward, making his stance clear—he was determined to target Jiang Xin Zhi. "A deputy general captured by the enemy should have the integrity to draw his sword and take his own life immediately. How can he bear the humiliation and cling to life? If he endures this disgrace now, what if he leaks our military tactics? Wouldn't that bring disaster upon us all?"Mo Cong shook his head. "Although the Duke makes a fair point, surely you are aware of the general from a previous dynasty in another country? He was captured by the enemy, pretended to surrender, spent ten whole years gathering military intelligence to send back to his homeland, and ultimately helped his army achieve a triumphant victory. Why couldn't the Da Jin Dynasty have someone like that?" Mo Cong had always been skilled in debate, and his words caused Duke Chen's expression to shift several times. Seeing the Emperor's wavering attitude, Duke Chen anxiously said, "But if something goes wrong, who will take responsibility?"
"One should not make baseless accusations," Liu Min, who had been standing silently, finally spoke. "If the Duke claims Deputy General Jiang has surrendered to the enemy, please provide evidence. Otherwise, this is the deepest insult to a military officer." Though Liu Min held the position of Grand Tutor, he was also a favorite of the Emperor, who admired his straightforward nature and often sought his opinion on court matters.
Unexpectedly, this time, Grand Tutor Liu took a clear stand on Jiang Xin Zhi's side.
Duke Chen's face darkened further, while Ye Li cast a deep glance at Liu Min. The Emperor, deep in thought, surveyed his assembled ministers and asked Ye Hua, "Fifth Prince, what is your view?"
"Your son is reckless in judgment. This matter is of great importance, and I dare not make a hasty decision," Ye Hua replied flawlessly. "Everything is subject to Your Majesty's discerning wisdom."
The Emperor chuckled, a sound that sent a chill through the gathered officials. As the two factions seemed on the verge of another argument, the Emperor said heavily, "Since no one can decide, then there is no need for a decision."
The officials exchanged puzzled glances, unable to fathom the Emperor's intentions. The Emperor stood, and Eunuch Li hurried forward to support him, announcing shrilly, "His Majesty is unwell—court is dismissed!"
After the Emperor left, Ye Hua approached Ye Li, staring intently at him. "Eighth Brother, you move swiftly."
"Fifth Brother is no slower," Ye Li replied with a gentle smile, the very picture of a refined gentleman.
Ye Hua slowly clenched his fists, taking a deep breath. "Eighth Brother, to think you could so easily claim command of those hundred thousand troops—that is far too naive."
Ye Li shook his head. "The hardship of the process is meaningless—only success matters." With that, he walked away without a backward glance, pausing only to give Liu Min a meaningful look as he passed.
Mo Cong walked over to Liu Min and patted his shoulder. "You've thoroughly offended the Eighth Prince today."
"Huh?" Liu Min was still somewhat dazed. Mo Cong kindly explained, "You know Duke Chen is the Eighth Prince's maternal grandfather—of course they're allies. By humiliating Duke Chen today, you've slighted the Eighth Prince's dignity. As a fellow scholar, I’ll give you a word of advice—be careful in the coming days. But," Mo Cong scrutinized Liu Min, "I must say, it's quite strange. Why would you speak up for Deputy General Jiang?"
Though Liu Min was known for his integrity, he was no fool. The fact that a commoner like him could hold the position of Grand Tutor and earn the Emperor's trust showed that he understood the intricacies of court politics. He maintained a delicate balance—never losing his principles, yet never so blunt as to invite disaster.An incident like today's, given Liu Min's temperament, even if he intended to offer remonstrance, he wouldn't have done so in front of all the civil and military officials, humiliating the Duke of Chen so openly—it was indeed quite rare. Moreover, Jiang Xin Zhi and Liu Min, one a military officer and the other a civil official, were as unrelated as could be. Yet, the expression Ye Li had just directed at Liu Min seemed to carry deeper implications. Could there be something else going on that he wasn't aware of? Mo Cong was lost in thought when Liu Min suddenly stiffened slightly, as if reminded of something by Mo Cong's words. He hastily bowed to him and said, "I have some matters to attend to. Thank you for your advice, Lord Mo." With that, he turned and left.
Before Mo Cong could finish speaking, Liu Min had already departed mid-conversation, leaving him quite frustrated. Suddenly, as if struck by a thought, he glanced around and indeed didn't spot that person. He muttered to himself, "Strange, such an important matter, and Third Brother isn't at court. Where has he gone?"
...
The Third Brother Xiao that Mo Cong mentioned was currently in the Cining Palace.
When Empress Dowager Yide saw Xiao Shao, she visibly stiffened before abruptly rising from her couch. Yang Gugu hurriedly reached out to support her, but the Empress Dowager took two steps forward, as if wanting to touch Xiao Shao, only to suddenly withdraw her hand, appearing somewhat at a loss. Anyone witnessing this would surely be astonished—how could the usually stern and decisive Empress Dowager Yide display such an expression?
"A... Lord Xiao," the Empress Dowager said, her voice trembling slightly. "What brings you to see this old one?"
In stark contrast to the Empress Dowager's agitation, Xiao Shao's expression was exceptionally calm, even colder than usual. He replied evenly, "This humble official has a request to make."
"Speak," the Empress Dowager said. "If it is within this old one's power, I will certainly strive to fulfill it."
Such a humble, almost ingratiating attitude caused Yang Gugu to lower her head. Xiao Shao's expression remained unchanged, but his hand, hanging at his side, twitched slightly. After a long silence, he finally said, "I beseech Your Majesty to arrange a marriage for me."
"Arrange a marriage?" At this, the Empress Dowager exclaimed in surprise, her expression caught between joy and shock. Her voice rose sharply as she asked, "You have someone in mind? Which family's young lady is it?"
Yang Gugu gently patted the Empress Dowager's hand, and the latter paused before sitting back down on the couch. Her long ruby-adorned fingernails traced restlessly along the edge of the couch, but her gaze toward Xiao Shao was exceedingly gentle. She said, "Which marriage do you wish this old one to arrange for you?"
Xiao Shao did not answer immediately. After a moment, he slowly knelt on one knee—a gesture of a subject paying respects to their sovereign. His voice was as cool as a clear spring, carrying a trace of imperceptible tenderness as he said, "The one I seek is the Princess of Great Peace, the legitimate daughter of the Minister's household—Jiang Ruan."
"Ruan girl?" If Xiao Shao's request for the Empress Dowager to arrange a marriage was already astonishing, hearing the name of the person he sought left the Empress Dowager utterly stunned. She stood frozen in place, and it was unclear how much time passed before she noticed Xiao Shao still kneeling. Hurriedly, she said, "Rise quickly. Ruan girl—why do you wish to marry Ruan girl?"The young man stood up and spoke frankly without concealment, "Princess of Great Peace once saved my life when I was young. Now that the border is in crisis and Deputy General Jiang's whereabouts are unknown, the princess finds herself in a precarious position with many troubles both in the palace and at home. By becoming engaged to me, the Brocade Hero King Manor can offer her some protection."
His straightforward answer made it difficult to doubt his words. Moreover, since Xiao Shao was not known for lying, Empress Dowager Yide immediately believed him. Though she didn't understand what "saving his life" in childhood meant, she still found his reasoning somewhat absurd and scolded, "Preposterous! Marriage is no child's play, and this is no way to repay a debt of gratitude. If you value loyalty and righteousness so much, remember that Hong'an is still my granddaughter. How could I not protect her in the palace?"
"The inner court must not interfere with state affairs," Xiao Shao raised his eyes to meet the Empress Dowager's gaze. "If the Emperor uses court matters as an excuse, even Your Majesty would be powerless. His Majesty has already begun suppressing the Princess of Great Peace." After a pause, he added, "Moreover, I am fond of the Princess of Great Peace."
These words shocked even Yang Gugu, who had spent years in the palace mastering emotional control. Empress Dowager Yide was also stunned, especially by the last sentence. She asked, "You like Ruan girl?"
Xiao Shao nodded calmly, though his ears turned slightly red despite his composed expression.
Silence spoke louder than words. Seeing this, the Empress Dowager understood everything. Xiao Shao's reputation for cold detachment in court was well-known, and no one expected him to confess his feelings so openly before her. Witnessing such a rare display of emotion from him was surprising, yet it also stirred a pang of sorrow in her heart.
As her emotions swirled, she couldn't help but consider Xiao Shao's words. Indeed, he was right—the intricate power struggles within the palace made protecting someone extremely difficult. Jiang Ruan's situation was further complicated by border affairs. Jiang Xin Zhi had only this one sister, and any unrest at the frontier would make her a target. The Empress Dowager had seen such scenarios play out many times before. Though renowned for her wisdom, as the Dowager Empress, she no longer involved herself in state affairs. The Emperor had his own plans, and even as his birth mother, she couldn't control the decisions of her son, who was no longer the inexperienced young ruler of the past.
If the Emperor truly intended to act against Jiang Ruan, even she couldn't stop him. Xiao Shao's proposal, though rash, was effective. An engagement would place Jiang Ruan under the protection of the Brocade Hero King Manor. Even if something happened to Jiang Xin Zhi, Jiang Ruan would no longer be a member of the Jiang family but of the Xiao family. As a married woman, she would be spared from implication in family crimes, ensuring her safety.
In truth, the Empress Dowager was not a rigid traditionalist. Over the three years of interacting with Jiang Ruan, she had clearly recognized the differences between Jiang Ruan and Princess Yuan Rong. Jiang Ruan's temperament and actions greatly appealed to her. Had it been thirty years earlier, the Empress Dowager might even have considered bringing Jiang Ruan into the palace as a consort.Empress Dowager Yide held genuine affection for Jiang Ruan, and moreover... this was Xiao Shao's beloved. Though she harbored doubts—given Xiao Shao's aloof nature and Jiang Ruan's reserved demeanor—she wondered how these two could possibly be together. Yet after their earlier exchange, her worries eased. She had initially thought Xiao Shao was merely repaying a debt of gratitude, but the emotion in the young man's eyes was unmistakable. With just one glance, Empress Dowager Yide was certain: Xiao Shao had already set his heart on Jiang Ruan.
She could never refuse Xiao Shao's request, no matter the reason.
Empress Dowager Yide smiled warmly. "Child, I watched you grow up, and now in the blink of an eye, it's time for you to settle down and build a family."
Yang Gugu quietly exhaled in relief as the Empress Dowager continued, "As for the marriage decree, I will remember this matter. Hong'an has stayed by my side for several years, and I know her well—she has a gentle temperament. But I must still seek her opinion. If she has no objections, I would never dream of standing in the way of true love. I have always believed in helping love flourish."
Xiao Shao bowed deeply. "This humble subject thanks Your Majesty for your grace."
Empress Dowager Yide chuckled and exchanged a few more words with him. After Xiao Shao departed, she leaned back against the soft couch, her expression distant, as if all her strength had suddenly drained away. Yang Gugu hurriedly brought her a cup of hot tea.
The Empress Dowager accepted it absently, her fingers tracing the rim of the cup as she murmured, "He actually came to Cining Palace... I never thought I'd live to see him step foot here again..."
"Your Majesty," Yang Gugu soothed gently, "Prince Xiao may seem cold, but his heart is as clear as a mirror. But truly—do you intend to grant him and the County Princess the marriage decree?"
"How else if not by granting the marriage?" Empress Dowager Yide looked weary as she sighed. "This is what I owe him, and the Emperor owes him too. Even if he wanted the throne, no one would dare say a word against it. Much less just a marriage decree."
Yang Gugu pondered and said, "This servant observed Prince Xiao's declaration of affection for the princess earlier. His demeanor didn't seem feigned."
"He truly loves Princess of Great Peace." Empress Dowager Yide sighed heavily. "That's precisely what worries me. The princess's temperament is likely even colder than his. She appears gentle on the surface, but in truth, nothing touches her heart. If A'Shuo can't move her, my granting them marriage would be in vain."
The Empress Dowager frowned. "Moreover, the Emperor has already chosen for him—the daughter of Coastal Governor Cheng, accomplished in both literary and martial arts, surpassing even most men, and fair of face. I know full well what the Emperor intends. I fear that no sooner would I grant this marriage than the Emperor would make trouble for the princess." She paused. "The Jiang family is another major concern. I can't shake the feeling that if A'Shuo marries the princess, they'll face many hardships in the future."
Yang Gugu smiled as she massaged the Empress Dowager's shoulders, offering comfort. "Why trouble yourself so, Your Majesty? Prince Xiao is no ordinary man, and the Princess of Great Peace is sharp-witted. They won't be so easily outmaneuvered or defeated. If Prince Xiao loves the princess, she must have exceptional qualities. Besides, isn't Prince Xiao the dream husband of every noble maiden in Great Jin? How could the princess not favor him? Life always improves with time. Your Majesty should set your heart at ease."
(End of Chapter)
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