"Exactly." Mo Cong fanned himself leisurely, the Insect Fan Pendant swaying with such lifelike charm and whimsy that his tone became as casual as discussing household matters. "As the Thirteenth Prince's Grand Tutor, and given how close Third Sister-in-law has always been with the Thirteenth Prince, her seeking your help is essentially asking you to assist him. Surely you wouldn't refuse for the Thirteenth Prince's sake?"
Liu Min's heart trembled. Jiang Ruan had once aided him, but due to his own impropriety afterward, their relationship had grown even more distant than strangers. There were no acts of kindness without reason in this world—Liu Min had always known Jiang Ruan must have had a purpose in helping him. So... was this that purpose?
As if struck by sudden realization, he urgently asked, "Has the Princess of Brocade Glory been found?"
"No." Mo Cong shook his head. "The Thirteenth Prince is currently unable to extricate himself, and the outside world is in utter chaos. The entire court lacks stability—this was something Third Sister-in-law anticipated even before the incident. She even foresaw that she might encounter trouble. Long before anything happened, she instructed that if anything were to occur, we must seek Grand Tutor Liu's assistance."
An indescribable emotion surged in Liu Min's heart. Did Jiang Ruan truly trust him so much? Whatever needed to be done now must be of utmost importance. That Jiang Ruan would place such faith in him... Liu Min was a man of principle. Even as an official constrained by court politics, he had never once compromised his principles. Thus, the entire court knew him for his integrity. Yet long ago, Liu Min had recognized that Jiang Ruan was not a virtuous person—some of her methods were downright sinister. This matter at hand was likely not something honorable either.
But his hesitation lasted only a moment before Liu Min spoke firmly: "Very well."
Now it was Mo Cong's turn to be astonished. Today, he had come to Liu Min on someone's behalf with little confidence of success, for everyone knew Grand Tutor Liu's reputation in court as the most stubborn of men. Even aware that Liu Min harbored some unusual sentiment toward Jiang Ruan, Mo Cong knew Liu Min would never betray his principles for personal feelings. He had even prepared lengthy arguments to persuade Liu Min, never expecting such immediate agreement. Recovering, he hesitated before asking with a smile, "Grand Tutor Liu, you're not deceiving me, are you? Is this answer sincere?"
"I know what concerns you," Liu Min met his gaze. "I am serious about this matter."
"Why?" Mo Cong set aside his playful expression. "A man of your character wouldn't agree so readily."
"For the kindness of recognizing my worth, I repay with devotion." Liu Min's tone was calm.
Mo Cong studied him thoughtfully, seeming to grasp the meaning behind Liu Min's words only after a long pause. Finally nodding, he said, "Very well, I believe you. But the palace has many eyes—tonight, I'll take you to meet someone." Having spoken, Mo Cong gave Liu Min's shoulder a reassuring pat before departing without delay. To any observer, it would merely appear that Mo Cong had encountered his despondent former classmate and stopped to offer a few comforting words before going on his way.After Mo Cong had left for quite some time, Liu Min stared blankly at his own palm. What exactly was the task that required his help? He knew Jiang Ruan's capabilities. Given the current situation, which was undoubtedly unfavorable to her side, could she truly turn the tide? And the hands she sought to borrow were his own—could someone as seemingly powerless as him, a mere scholar, really accomplish anything? Slowly, Liu Min clenched his fists, the confusion in his eyes gradually fading, replaced by a hint of determination. No matter what, he had to at least try.
...
That night, Liu Min changed into a coarse brown linen robe. Usually, aside from his official attire, he wore clothes personally made by his mother—always refined and presentable. Now, clad in this rough garment, he felt as though he had returned to his days as a humble scholar, stirring up countless emotions within him.
Compared to the countless eyes watching outside other mansions, Liu Min was practically untouchable. For one, as a grand tutor, he held little real power. Secondly, his temperament was well-known—no one would suspect him of colluding with anyone. A man like him, solitary and unassuming, posed no threat whatsoever. Thus, when Liu Min went out alone, there was nothing worth following.
He arrived at a secluded tavern. Inside, there was a back hall, and on the second floor, a private room. As he approached the door, he saw Mo Cong waiting outside, whose eyes lit up at the sight of him. "You're here. Good, go on in," Mo Cong said.
Before Liu Min could even discern who was inside, Mo Cong pushed him in and announced, "Third Brother, Fourth Brother, he's here. I'll take my leave now." Without waiting for Liu Min to respond, Mo Cong tugged at his sleeve and shut the door behind him.
Only then did Liu Min lift his gaze to the people seated inside.
The room was neither spacious nor cramped—just an ordinary tavern guest room. One man sat at the table, while another stood by the window. The seated man wore a luxurious purple robe, his handsome face vaguely familiar, though Liu Min couldn't quite place him. Noticing Liu Min's gaze, the man stood and bowed respectfully. "Grand Tutor Liu."
The formal gesture jogged Liu Min's memory. This was Qi Feng, a colleague from court—a mid-ranking official who rarely appeared in the palace. Liu Min had seldom crossed paths with him. Moreover, Qi Feng had once sported a distinctive mustache, but now that it was gone, Liu Min hadn't recognized him. Returning the courtesy, Liu Min said, "Lord Qi." Then, he turned his attention to the man by the window.
This man, Liu Min knew all too well. Dressed in a black gold brocade robe, his tall and upright figure leaned against the window as he idly twirled a dagger in his hand. His features were exquisitely beautiful—none other than Xiao Shao.
Memories suddenly flooded Liu Min's mind. He had met Xiao Shao before. When he first entered court as an official, he had heard countless tales about Xiao Shao. Naturally, he knew the Brocade Hero King Manor was the home of traitorous subjects. Later, when he saw Jiang Ruan entangled with Xiao Shao, he had even advised her, hoping she wouldn't throw herself into the fire. But in the end, his words had no effect. Even then, it had been clear that Jiang Ruan and Xiao Shao shared a deep connection—likely old acquaintances from long ago.For Xiao Shao, Liu Min had always harbored complex feelings. He knew the Emperor trusted this man, yet he also held some suspicions toward him. However, after witnessing Xiao Shao's genuine care for Jiang Ruan, it seemed those lingering resentments gradually dissipated. Even so, in the presence of this young man, he couldn't help but feel a sense of awkwardness—the discomfort of facing a victor.
Xiao Shao didn't even glance at Liu Min. He was absorbed in toying with the dagger in his hand, as if his sole focus was on this simple act. Yet upon closer observation, one might realize he wasn't truly looking at the dagger—his eyes held nothing at all.
Qi Feng gave a light cough, interrupting Liu Min's gaze. With a smile, he said, "Grand Tutor Liu, please have a seat."
Liu Min collected his thoughts and, noticing that Qi Feng had no intention of addressing Xiao Shao, understood this was a conversation between just the two of them—at least, it wouldn't involve direct interaction with Xiao Shao. For some reason, he felt a faint sense of relief. He then took his seat and looked up at the purple-robed man before him. "You were the one who summoned me?"
"Indeed," Qi Feng replied with a faint smile, lifting the teapot to pour Liu Min a cup. "No need for surprise. As Mo Cong likely mentioned earlier, I invited you here, to be frank, because there's a matter I must ask of you." He paused before continuing, "And this matter was actually proposed by your third sister-in-law."
Liu Min's expression remained unchanged, but inwardly, he couldn't help feeling startled. He wasn't very familiar with Qi Feng, yet he knew this man was as inconspicuous in court as his official position suggested—someone without the influence to sway the broader situation, naturally overlooked in the struggle for succession. Who would have guessed that Qi Feng's current stance not only revealed his ties to Mo Cong and the Brocade Hero King Manor but also hinted at something more: that Qi Feng himself was no ordinary figure.
For such an extraordinary man to remain inactive in court for years, enduring a mediocre official post—could there be some hidden purpose behind it? Liu Min was no bookish fool; he had heard tales of past coups and power seizures. A suspicion arose in his mind—could it be... that Xiao Shao intended to declare himself king?
The Brocade Hero King Manor had long been branded with the name of traitorous subjects. If Xiao Shao sought to establish his own rule, it wouldn't be unfitting for such a reputation. But if this were truly the case, Liu Min had already resolved in his heart—not even Jiang Ruan could sway him. He would never aid tyranny or become an accomplice in usurpation.
Noticing Liu Min's increasingly grim expression, Qi Feng seemed to guess his thoughts and chuckled. "Grand Tutor Liu, are you aware of the current state of affairs in court?" Without waiting for Liu Min's reply, he continued, "The Emperor's sudden passing, the Empress Dowager's advanced age—a kingdom cannot be without a ruler for even a day. Sooner or later, a master of this land will ascend the throne. Now, there are only two princes left: the Eighth Prince and the Thirteenth Prince. And between these two, the contest is evenly matched."Liu Min said coldly, "What do you mean to say?" Qi Feng's words clearly indicated he wanted to discuss the issue of the Da Jin Dynasty's ruler—a treasonous topic. Liu Min could almost be certain that Qi Feng's next words would inevitably relate to the struggle for the throne. Thinking this, he glanced once more at Xiao Shao, who was leaning by the window, and a surge of anger rose within him. If Xiao Shao harbored such thoughts, had he ever considered Jiang Ruan's position? Beautiful women already faced enough challenges in this world, where a single misstep could invite trouble. Back then, Jiang Ruan had gained a reputation for climbing the social ladder because of Xiao Shao. Now, with Xiao Shao acting this way, was he trying to make her the target of public scorn as a Nation-destroying enchantress? Since he had married her, why not cherish her? Why trample on her like this?
Qi Feng smiled faintly and said, "I wish to know Grand Tutor Liu's opinion. Between the Thirteenth Prince and the Eighth Prince, who does Grand Tutor Liu believe is more suited to be the future crown prince of the Da Jin Dynasty?"
Liu Min replied, "This matter is not for me to comment on." The imperial struggle for succession was not something he could casually weigh in on. Moreover, Liu Min was now highly wary of Qi Feng, scrutinizing every word he said.
"Grand Tutor Liu is a straightforward man. Given your status and position, it wouldn't be difficult to remain neutral. But in this world, who among the talented does not aspire to achieve great things? As a subject, assisting the ruler is both duty and lifelong ambition. Has Grand Tutor Liu never considered guiding an emperor, watching the realm flourish day by day, and doing more for the people?"
Qi Feng had always been eloquent, especially skilled at persuasion tailored to a person's thoughts. Liu Min was exceptionally talented, and though he had once been favored by the late emperor, the position of Grand Tutor ultimately held little real authority over state affairs. When Liu Min first entered court, it was with the ambition to change the injustices he saw through his own efforts. Yet now, it seemed he had failed to fulfill his original aspirations. Qi Feng's words were less a promise and more a reminder: Have you stayed true to your initial resolve?
Liu Min said, "So what? The fate of the realm follows its natural course. Even the Emperor's decisions are not mine to influence. As for assisting a ruler, no matter my position, I will always care for the court."
"Well said," Qi Feng laughed heartily. "Since Grand Tutor Liu harbors such lofty ideals, you must naturally have an opinion on who should hold the realm's future. Let me ask you this: Having served as the Thirteenth Prince's tutor for so long, do you believe he is fit for the responsibility of ruling the realm?"
Liu Min was convinced Qi Feng's words were merely paving the way to elevate Xiao Shao, and bringing up Xuan Pei was only a prelude to dismissing him as too young before shifting focus to Xiao Shao. To thwart Qi Feng's intentions, Liu Min immediately replied, "Of course. The Thirteenth Prince is a dragon among men—intelligent, poised, and destined for greatness."
"Excellent," Qi Feng praised. "I never imagined Grand Tutor Liu would share our sentiments. Third Brother, did you hear that? This is what they call fate bringing like minds together." Qi Feng turned to Xiao Shao as he spoke.Xiao Shao cast a faint glance in this direction, ignoring Qi Feng's words. However, Liu Min was taken aback upon hearing this. He hadn't expected Qi Feng to say such a thing—wasn't the next step supposed to be bringing up Xiao Shao's matter? Why had he suddenly followed his own line of thought? Liu Min, rarely showing a hint of bewilderment, asked suspiciously, "What?"
"Just as Grand Tutor Liu has said," Qi Feng smiled, "we also believe that among the two current princes, the Thirteenth Prince stands out more. Therefore, I have resolved to pledge my allegiance to the Thirteenth Prince, vowing never to betray him and to support only him in this lifetime!"
This statement was somewhat unexpected for Liu Min, leaving him momentarily at a loss for words. He could only stare blankly at Qi Feng, who abruptly shifted his demeanor again: "But as we both know, the Thirteenth Prince's standing in the palace is truly worrisome. Recently, he was imprisoned due to accusations from his personal maid, and even General Jiang was unjustly implicated. Grand Tutor Liu is an intelligent man—even if you distrust others, you should at least believe in General Jiang's innocence."
These words struck a chord with Liu Min. While he might still harbor doubts about Xuan Pei, the idea that Jiang Xin Zhi could have plotted to murder the late emperor was absolutely impossible. Back when the Da Jin Dynasty launched a campaign against the Celestial Jin Kingdom, everyone witnessed how Jiang Xin Zhi narrowly escaped death and led his troops with valor. This young general had risen through the ranks with bloodstained merits, risking his own life. Unlike other scholars, Liu Min did not scorn the roughness of military men; instead, he held deep admiration for the kind of bravery he himself could never achieve. In Liu Min's heart, Jiang Xin Zhi was an upright and courageous general—such a noble and honorable man could never have poisoned the late emperor. Clearly, someone was trying to drag Jiang Xin Zhi down.
And the purpose of dragging Jiang Xin Zhi down was naturally to implicate Xuan Pei. Who in the palace harbored the greatest enmity toward Xuan Pei other than Xuan Li? Thus, it was only natural that Xuan Li was the mastermind behind this. For this reason, Liu Min privately looked down on Xuan Li's underhanded tactics. Moreover, he shared a teacher-student bond with Xuan Pei. Even if today's events hadn't occurred, his heart would still have been on Xuan Pei's side.
"I believe in General Jiang," Liu Min said. With just this one sentence, he made his stance clear.
"The General's Residence is the elder brother of our third sister-in-law, so naturally, we believe in him too," Qi Feng smiled. "But now it seems Grand Tutor Liu also stands with the Thirteenth Prince—meaning Grand Tutor Liu is one of us."
By this point, Liu Min fully understood. It turned out this group's goal wasn't to push Xiao Shao to the forefront. The only person they supported was Xuan Pei. And now, their purpose in coming here was clear: to draw him into Xuan Pei's faction. Liu Min couldn't help but feel a bitter amusement. Even if he declared his stance, what use would it be? What was the point of pulling him into this faction? After all, he was merely a scholar with no physical strength, a Grand Tutor without real power. Even if he personally pleaded for Xuan Pei before Empress Dowager Yide, his words would carry no weight. Thus, he was of no use at all. Wasn't it a waste of effort for these people to go to such lengths to recruit him?"I am indeed on the side of the Thirteenth Prince," Liu Min said. "But no matter which side I stand on, it makes no difference. It won't affect the final outcome in the slightest, so your concerns are unnecessary. If you're counting on me to change anything, I'm afraid I must disappoint you." By the end of his words, Liu Min couldn't help but glance at Xiao Shao. Though these remarks were ostensibly directed at Qi Feng, they were more accurately meant for Xiao Shao. It was clear Qi Feng followed Xiao Shao's lead, and today's attempt at persuasion was, in truth, Xiao Shao's doing. Liu Min felt somewhat uneasy, but what he said was indeed the truth.
"No," Qi Feng countered. "You're mistaken, Grand Tutor Liu. You underestimate yourself greatly. Far from being insignificant, your role is crucial. Without you, this endeavor would likely fail. Should the Thirteenth Prince one day ascend the throne, the grand undertaking would be difficult to entrust to anyone else without your involvement."
Hearing this, Liu Min couldn't conceal his surprise. Qi Feng's words were nothing short of astonishing, yet he couldn't fathom what more he could possibly contribute. He couldn't help but say to Qi Feng, "I'm merely a grand tutor..."
"Before you were a grand tutor, you were first and foremost a scholar," Qi Feng said solemnly. "In all matters under heaven, everything can be obstructed—except the heart and the power of words. Before becoming a grand tutor, you were a scholar, and not just any scholar, but a top graduate in the imperial examinations. A single essay of yours once won the Emperor's favor, and countless scholars across the land look up to you as their model. You are the standard by which scholars measure themselves. Grand Tutor Liu, you may not realize it, but while a grand tutor may not hold much sway in court, in the hearts of scholars, you carry more weight than any chancellor or high official—because you are their ideal."
Liu Min was stunned. No one had ever spoken to him like this before. In his years of arduous study, he had only sought to change his own circumstances and those of others like him. But when he finally achieved scholarly success, he found reality far more complicated than he had imagined. He could alter his own fate, but with countless souls in the world, how could he possibly be their savior? He was powerless, merely the Emperor's tutor. Yet this Qi Feng claimed he was the standard in the hearts of scholars across the land? How... how absurd was that?
"Just as military men worship Guan Yu, when there is no Guan Yu in this world, they naturally revere the most formidable figure of their time. Grand Tutor Liu, throughout the Da Jin Dynasty, how many top graduates have there been? Yet none have risen as swiftly as you, a man of humble origins who earned the Emperor's favor. To you, this may seem unremarkable, but you must understand—what you possess, some may never attain in their lifetime. What you have is already the envy of countless others."
Liu Min remained silent, but inwardly, he was beginning to accept Qi Feng's words. Qi Feng smiled faintly, then suddenly rose and bowed deeply to Liu Min. "Grand Tutor Liu, the task we ask of you now could alter the course of the realm and save countless lives. You must wield the power of a scholar to change the current Invaluable Chess Game. What you are to do is far greater than you imagine. Are you willing... do you dare?"Qi Feng's expression was solemn, and even Liu Min could sense the gravity in his words. His heart couldn't help but sink slightly. The fact that Qi Feng had performed such a formal bow indicated this matter must be of great importance. Yet Qi Feng's words seemed to touch something deep within Liu Min—back in his youth, he too had envisioned a day when he could command with authority and radiate vigor. That passion had been worn away day by day in the grind of officialdom. Now, presented with an opportunity to fulfill the dreams of his younger self, Liu Min felt a chill run through him, yet beneath his skin, his blood boiled with fervor, almost pointing directly to an answer.
Slowly, he rose to his feet and returned Qi Feng's bow with a light one of his own, murmuring softly, "Naturally."
Xiao Shao had turned around at some point, his dagger already retracted into his sleeve. Now standing with his hands behind his back, he gazed quietly at Liu Min. Qi Feng slowly reached into his robe, retrieved an object, and presented it with both hands to Liu Min. He said nothing. Liu Min was momentarily stunned, then lowered his head to look—only to freeze in shock. The texture under his fingertips... With trembling hands and an incredulous heart, he slowly unfolded the object in his grasp. When he fully opened it and saw its entirety, he couldn’t suppress a cry: "How could this...?"
Suddenly, he understood Qi Feng’s meaning and why Qi Feng had claimed to possess such immense influence. Indeed, in anyone else’s hands, this object would not wield the same power as it did in his. But... how? His eyes flickered between Qi Feng and the black-clad youth standing behind him, suspicion and astonishment warring within him. Neither man spoke. Qi Feng’s gaze held entrustment, while Xiao Shao’s expression remained as indifferent as ever, as though nothing in the world could leave an impression on him.
"Grand Tutor Liu, we leave this to you," Qi Feng said solemnly.
After a long moment of stunned silence, Liu Min finally regained his composure. Unable to resist, he asked, "Was this... her arrangement?"
The "her" naturally referred to the Princess of Brocade Glory, Jiang Ruan. Both Xiao Shao and Qi Feng understood. Xiao Shao remained silent, while Qi Feng smiled wryly. "Indeed."
Liu Min closed his eyes briefly. She truly had audacity beyond measure. So all of this had been under her control from the start. In that case, her current uncertain fate must also be part of the act—she must be safe. She was far too clever... A wave of relief washed over Liu Min. Strangely, he felt no sense of betrayal, only admiration. This woman possessed such rare wisdom, orchestrating the fate of an entire nation with such subtlety. It was a pity... someone else had claimed her first.
Dismissing his wandering thoughts, Liu Min raised the object with both hands and nodded to Qi Feng. "I will do my utmost."
"Thank you." Qi Feng smiled faintly and glanced out the window. "This is no place to linger. Grand Tutor Liu, please return to your residence for now. Leave this object here—when the time is right, it will be delivered to you. As for the rest, you are a wise man. You know what to do. We won’t interfere further."
Liu Min nodded again. Qi Feng rapped his knuckles against the table, and Mo Cong, who had been eavesdropping outside for some time, immediately burst through the door. Grinning at Liu Min, he said, "No worries, I’ll escort Grand Tutor Liu downstairs and pick a few shadow guards to ensure his safety."
Only after Mo Cong and Liu Min had left did Qi Feng exhale deeply, the confident demeanor he had maintained earlier vanishing without a trace. Xiao Shao walked to the table and sat down. Qi Feng looked at him and said, "Dealing with him was exhausting. I was truly afraid he’d refuse."
No matter how composed he appeared on the outside, only Qi Feng knew how difficult it was to persuade a stubborn man. Yet, to his surprise, Liu Min had agreed so readily. A faint sense of astonishment lingered in Qi Feng’s heart. Had he not trusted the Grand Tutor’s integrity, he might have suspected some hidden scheme at play.Xiao Shao lowered his gaze to the teacup before him, remaining silent. Qi Feng took one look and, after a moment's thought, suddenly said, "You're jealous, aren't you? Feeling sour? Grand Tutor Liu was so accommodating today, surely out of respect for Third Sister-in-law. What, does that upset you too?"
Deep down, Xiao Shao was a man of strong dominance. No one would feel at ease seeing their wife catch the eye of an unfamiliar man, especially someone as possessive as Xiao Shao. After maintaining a serious demeanor, Qi Feng couldn't resist teasing him a little, wanting to poke fun at Xiao Shao. After all, Xiao Shao always wore that cold expression—it had been exhausting lately, and the pressure was immense.
"Too much talk," Xiao Shao rebuked in a low voice.
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