The palace maid noticed Jiang Ruan's distraction and said, "Deputy General Jiang came to see you, but he left in a hurry after some matters arose. Her Majesty the Empress Dowager should be back soon. Both the deputy general and Her Majesty were very worried when you were unconscious."
Jiang Ruan thought for a moment, "What about my father, mother, and younger sister?"
"Her Majesty has already ordered them to return to the residence," the maid replied.
Jiang Ruan lowered her eyes. The Empress Dowager sending Jiang Quan and the others back to the palace clearly indicated her displeasure toward him. This was excellent news. She smiled slightly and looked apologetically at the maid, "I'm a bit hungry."
"The meal is already prepared. This servant will attend to you right away," the maid said with a smile.
...
In the imperial study, the Emperor suddenly slammed the paperweight on the table to the ground, "So, it was the people of the Celestial Jin Kingdom last night?"
Guan Lianghan and Xiao Shao remained silent in tacit agreement.
The Celestial Jin Kingdom lay to the north of the Da Jin Dynasty. Though its territory was not vast, its overseas trade flourished due to its coastal location. It had always maintained a non-aggression pact with the Da Jin Dynasty. The Da Jin Dynasty had considered annexing the Celestial Jin Kingdom, but despite its small size, the kingdom excelled in weapon forging, equipping its soldiers with far superior arms. A previous emperor had once attempted to conquer the Celestial Jin Kingdom, but it withstood the assault of the Da Jin Dynasty's 400,000-strong army. The war dragged on for a full year until the Da Jin Dynasty's resources were depleted, and the people suffered under heavy taxes. Realizing it was a lose-lose situation, the previous emperor ordered a retreat, and since then, the two nations had coexisted peacefully without conflict.
However, after Xiao Shao and Guan Lianghan interrogated the zealots throughout the night, though the captives remained steadfast, their words inadvertently revealed inconsistencies. Xiao Shao ordered the Brocade-clad Guards to investigate, and the findings pointed to the assassins being from the Celestial Jin Kingdom.
"Such audacity from a mere speck of land!" the Emperor roared in fury.
The assassins from the previous night had aimed directly at the Emperor before turning their blades indiscriminately in the hall, sowing panic among the officials. Such actions could only be interpreted as a blatant provocation. What was the Celestial Jin Kingdom's intention? Did they wish to wage war against the Da Jin Dynasty?
"The Celestial Jin Kingdom has been stirring trouble along the borders these past few years, growing restless," Xiao Shao reminded. "This assassination attempt may well be a signal."
"A signal for war?" Guan Lianghan asked.
"Do they think I fear them?" No ruler could tolerate such insolent provocation. Imperial dignity was not to be trampled upon, especially when it concerned the nation's security. The Emperor frowned, "General Guan, would you lead an expedition against the Celestial Jin Kingdom?"
Guan Lianghan grinned, "It would be my honor."
He had no desire to remain in this tiresome capital, dealing with these overly refined individuals. Returning victorious this year, he had been displeased when the Emperor suggested he stay in the capital to retire. A soldier's place was on the battlefield, and Guan Lianghan's true prowess shone only in war.
After a moment's thought, the Emperor said, "Take your deputy general with you. If he proves to be a born commander and returns victorious, I shall reward him handsomely!"Guan Lianghan's expression turned solemn. The Emperor's words had truly given Jiang Xin Zhi room to grow. Initially, he had thought that since Jiang Xin Zhi had slighted Noble Consort Chen, the Emperor would harbor some prejudice against him as well. Yet now, with Jiang Xin Zhi and his sister just reunited, the Emperor was giving him another opportunity to lead a campaign. If he distinguished himself in this battle, another young hero would emerge in the Da Jin Dynasty, and Jiang Xin Zhi would truly be able to establish his footing in the court.
The only question was whether that sister-obsessed man would be willing to leave Jiang Ruan's side.
The Emperor continued, "Last night, so many assassins infiltrated the palace. Are the guards all useless?" He looked at Xiao Shao. "Xiao Shao, mobilize your Brocade-clad Guards."
This signaled a thorough purge. The assassins from the Celestial Jin Kingdom had entered the palace as if it were unguarded, suggesting there must have been inside help. Though the identity of the traitor remained unknown, as long as they remained at large, it would fester like a malignant tumor in the Emperor's heart.
Xiao Shao gave a slight nod. "Understood."
Guan Lianghan sighed inwardly. The palace was bound to witness another storm of bloodshed.
After the two men finished discussing other matters with the Emperor and stepped out of the imperial study, they saw a beautiful young woman standing outside. She wore an exquisite golden gauze dress, her attire ornate and refined, her meticulously adorned face stunningly beautiful with a faint exotic air. She approached gracefully and smiled at Xiao Shao. "Prince Xiao." It was Princess Heyi.
Guan Lianghan winked at Xiao Shao and strode away.
Xiao Shao looked down at Heyi, his gaze devoid of warmth. The chill in his eyes made Princess Heyi's heart skip a beat, and she felt a twinge of fear. But recalling the events of the previous night, her eyes flashed with resentment. She raised her head to meet Xiao Shao's coldly handsome face and asked, "What is your relationship with Miss Jiang Ruan?"
The question was baffling. Xiao Shao frowned, not understanding her meaning, and replied coldly, "What concern is that of yours, Princess?"
Princess Heyi's eyes reddened, stung by his icy tone. She shivered and said plaintively, "You know I like you."
"Mind your words, Princess," Xiao Shao's gaze turned even colder. "I have no such intentions toward you."
"What about Jiang Ruan, then?" Princess Heyi couldn't help but demand sharply. "Do you like her?"
Xiao Shao's frown deepened, unable to comprehend her words. But with more pressing matters at hand, he merely gave her a frosty glance and turned to leave. To Princess Heyi, his silence was tantamount to admission. She stood frozen for a moment before suddenly covering her face and bursting into tears.
...
After Jiang Ruan finished her morning meal, Empress Dowager Yide returned to Cining Palace. Seeing her condition, the Empress Dowager asked, "Are you feeling better now?"
Jiang Ruan smiled. "Thank you for your concern, Your Majesty. I am much better."
Empress Dowager Yide scrutinized her and saw that her spirits were indeed better than the day before. Relieved, she sat down on the soft couch. A maid handed her a cup of tea, which the Empress Dowager accepted and sipped lightly, all the while observing Jiang Ruan discreetly.
The young girl before her was demure and neat. Though her features were enchanting, her eyes were clear and untainted. Most remarkable was her unshakable composure, which lent her beauty a dignified grace, making it serene and gentle.
Seemingly offhand, the Empress Dowager asked, "Does Jiang Quan treat you poorly?"Jiang Ruan seemed momentarily taken aback by the question. After a brief pause, she smiled and replied, "No, it's not that. It's just that I was raised in the countryside estate and wasn't very close to my father since childhood."
She neither poured out grievances nor lied about Jiang Quan treating her extremely well. Her words stated the facts while subtly excusing Jiang Quan's behavior—a perfectly measured response.
Empress Dowager Yide's lips curled into a faint smile. "Since you're not close, I suppose separation wouldn't be too painful for you."
This time, Jiang Ruan was genuinely startled. She looked at the Empress Dowager in confusion.
The Dowager examined the ruby on her nail guard and said, "Jiang girl, this old one is going to stay at the imperial ancestral temple near the mausoleum for three years. Would you like to accompany me?"
Jiang Ruan maintained her smile while her mind reeled with shock. The Empress Dowager's words clearly meant she wanted her to leave.
The Dowager continued calmly, "I know you're an intelligent child. Think carefully—if you follow me, I'll ensure your safety. When we return to the palace in three years, your status won't be ordinary." She glanced at the ruby on her nail guard again. "You saved my life, and after much consideration, I believe this is the only reward that would truly please me."
Jiang Ruan was stunned. She understood the implication—the Empress Dowager was offering her an exceptional opportunity. While leaving the Jiang residence would give Xia Yan three more years to consolidate power, accompanying the Dowager to the imperial temple would elevate her status significantly.
Tonight, she was merely the Jiang family's eldest daughter who had saved the Empress Dowager—a fleeting favor that would be forgotten after some rewards. But three years by the Dowager's side would make everyone view her differently. People would instinctively think: This is someone close to Her Majesty.
The Empress Dowager's offer was undeniably generous. Even with her thirst for revenge, Jiang Ruan couldn't help but be tempted. Three years could change everything. Xia Yan might regain influence, but by the Dowager's side, Jiang Ruan could make herself indispensable.
Gains came with losses. Jiang Xin Zhi had just entered court politics with unstable footing—the Dowager's support could be crucial.
Raising her head, Jiang Ruan smiled at the Empress Dowager. "Thank you for your grace, Your Majesty. This humble girl is deeply honored."
Three years it would be. The greatest pain wasn't losing what you never had, but watching something slip from your grasp after holding it tight. The higher the climb, the harder the fall. She'd give them three years to climb to fatal heights—then watch them shatter upon impact.
The Empress Dowager smiled in satisfaction and uttered two words: "Very good."
...
When Guan Lianghan relayed the Emperor's plans to Jiang Xin Zhi, the latter's brows furrowed deeply. Disapproving of his despondent expression, Guan Lianghan clapped him on the shoulder. "A real man belongs on the battlefield. All this moping—are you afraid to die?"
Jiang Xin Zhi retorted angrily, "It's not that I fear death! It's just..." He swallowed the rest of his words.Guan Lianghan looked at him knowingly: "You're reluctant to leave your sister, aren't you? Brother and sister—what exactly do you mean by treating your sister more preciously than a daughter? And to be honest, your sister isn't one to suffer losses easily. Others should be lucky if they aren't schemed against by her."
Jiang Xin Zhi subtly distanced himself from Guan Lianghan: "That is my family matter, no need for the general to concern himself."
Whenever Jiang Ruan was mentioned, Jiang Xin Zhi became particularly prickly. Guan Lianghan grew angry as well and said, "Then you can worry about it yourself. Once the Emperor's Imperial Edict is issued, you'll have to go whether you want to or not—unless you intend to defy the edict. But for your sister's sake, you won't defy it." With that, he stormed off.
Jiang Xin Zhi stood where he was, his mind in turmoil. He naturally knew this was an excellent opportunity. The battlefield was where one could truly prove themselves. If he failed, he would simply return wrapped in a horse's hide; if he succeeded, glory and riches would follow. He wasn't afraid of death, nor did he seek wealth and status. But if he wanted Jiang Ruan to have better protection, he had no choice but to climb higher step by step.
During the palace banquet, he had seen it clearly. Even though Jiang Ruan was precocious, living in the Jiang residence was far too dangerous. Jiang Quan could push her out at any moment. If Empress Dowager Yide hadn't intervened last night, Jiang Ruan might have even been married off to the Eighth Prince's household. If his own power were greater, he would never allow others to so easily dictate Jiang Ruan's future.
Thinking of this, he steeled his resolve to attack the Celestial Jin Kingdom. Yet the thought of Jiang Ruan having to live alone in the Jiang residence for three years twisted his heart.
His expression darkened as he pondered this.
After leaving the Guan residence, Jiang Xin Zhi planned to return to the Jiang residence first and discuss the matter with Jiang Ruan once she returned. Just as he reached the gate of the Guan residence, he heard a timid female voice call out, "Lord Jiang."
Jiang Xin Zhi paused and turned toward the voice, spotting a beautiful and delicate young lady, followed by two maids. Judging by her attire, she must be a young lady from a prominent family. She looked familiar, but he couldn't quite place her.
The young lady blushed when Jiang Xin Zhi stared directly at her. After hesitating for a moment, she took two steps forward and said, "Last night, you saved my life. I... wanted to thank you in person."
Jiang Xin Zhi frowned slightly, then remembered. He had indeed pulled this young lady to safety last night, but with so many people rescued in the chaos, he hadn't recalled her until now.
Seeing that Jiang Xin Zhi didn't seem to remember her, a flicker of disappointment flashed in the young lady's eyes. But she quickly smiled again and said, "My father is the Capital Magistrate. He wishes to invite you to our residence to express his gratitude."
Jiang Xin Zhi smiled faintly. Now that he had just entered the court and was showing signs of rising through the ranks, many officials were already making moves. After briefly observing the situation yesterday, some must have already begun scheming. Was this an attempt to win him over? Though Jiang Xin Zhi was a military man, he came from a family of civil officials. He wasn't ignorant of the factionalism in court and understood the importance of self-preservation. With his foundation still unstable and the fierce struggle for the throne among the princes, he wasn't foolish enough to get involved.
The elegant and handsome smile that unconsciously appeared on his face made Dong Yinger's cheeks burn. Jiang Xin Zhi replied politely, "It was merely a small effort, no need for the young lady to take it to heart. I have matters to attend to, so I must take my leave."With that, he didn't even wait for Dong Yinger's response before hastily riding away on his horse.
Dong Yinger was momentarily stunned, the words "I'm also good friends with Ruan Meimei" still stuck in her throat. At fourteen years old, this was the first time she had been so captivated by a man's demeanor. Amidst last night's chaos, being held in the arms of this handsome young general had given her an unprecedented sense of security. When she learned he was Jiang Ruan's elder brother, Dong Yinger couldn't contain her joy. She had even sneaked out today, waiting at the gate upon hearing he was at the Guan residence, just to catch a glimpse of him.
Having cast aside a maiden's pride, Jiang Xin Zhi seemed utterly oblivious. Dong Yinger murmured to herself, "Does he dislike me?"
"How could Deputy General Jiang dislike someone as wonderful as you, miss?" her maid consoled her. "He must truly have urgent matters. Please don't be sad."
Watching the figure on horseback gradually disappear into the distance, a trace of melancholy flashed through Dong Yinger's eyes.
...
News that the Jiang family's eldest daughter Jiang Ruan had shielded the Empress Dowager with her own body during the palace banquet spread throughout the capital by nightfall. Everyone knew the usually stern Empress Dowager Yide had personally taken Jiang Ruan back to Cining Palace and summoned imperial physicians for treatment. Many said the Jiang heiress had turned misfortune into blessing—by saving the Empress Dowager, she'd become Her Majesty's life-saving benefactor. Others sneered, believing Jiang Ruan was merely gambling her life for future advantages.
Regardless, it was undeniable that Jiang Ruan had gained Empress Dowager Yide's favor.
The next day brought even more earth-shattering news: Empress Dowager Yide would soon depart to offer prayers at the ancestral temple near the imperial mausoleum, returning to the palace after three years. She had issued an Imperial Decree commanding the Jiang family's eldest daughter to accompany her.
This was even more astonishing than the previous night's events. Not only was this treatment unheard of for a minister's daughter—even the Empress Dowager's own granddaughters never received such privilege. People speculated Jiang Ruan must have truly pleased Her Majesty, and this previously overlooked Jiang heiress had somehow stumbled upon incredible fortune.
The surprises continued. The following day, Grand General Zhao Guang personally submitted a memorial at court, declaring Jiang Ruan was of Zhao family blood. Though the Zhaos had heartlessly severed ties with Zhao Mei in the past, they now sought nothing more than an imperial favor—that Jiang Ruan might have autonomy over her future marriage.
Having devoted his life to serving the nation without ever making personal requests, the Emperor could hardly refuse such a simple petition before the entire court. With a wave of his hand: Granted.
Within days, Jiang Ruan's name was on everyone's lips.
When Lianqiao and Zisu came to escort Jiang Ruan back to the residence, they encountered envious stares throughout the journey. Zisu fretted, "Are you injured anywhere, miss? We were terribly worried but couldn't remain in the palace to know your condition."
"It's nothing, just a minor wound," Jiang Ruan waved dismissively. "How are things at home now?"
"After returning that night," Lianqiao reported, "the master and madam secluded themselves in the study—who knows what they discussed. The second young lady suffered from shock and took sedatives prescribed by a physician before sleeping. The second young master flew into a rage upon hearing of the eldest young master's honors and went out drinking that night." Her tone turned scornful. "He wasn't carried back until the next morning, dead drunk."
Jiang Ruan nodded. "And fourth sister?""Fourth Miss..." Lianqiao said mysteriously, "The people from Left Langzhong's residence have come several times. They seem like good people, insisting on taking responsibility for Fourth Miss. They said they would come for the marriage agreement in a few days, but..."
Jiang Ruan raised an eyebrow, waiting for her to continue. Sure enough, Lianqiao added, "After Third Miss learned of this matter, she went straight to Second Madam without saying a word. Second Madam then went to see the master. Later, the master called Fourth Miss into his study for a talk. When Fourth Miss came out, her face was deathly pale. Later, Luzhu went to inquire, and guess what, young miss?"
Jiang Ruan smiled faintly, "Third sister wants to substitute herself?"
"How did you know?" Lianqiao exclaimed in surprise, then continued, "Exactly! It's said Second Madam discussed something with the master that made him change his mind. Originally, it was Fourth Miss's marriage agreement to be sent over, but now it's decided to be Third Miss's instead."
"Would Left Langzhong agree to this?" Jiang Ruan leaned against the carriage cushion, sipping her tea unhurriedly.
"Left Langzhong doesn't know about this. From Second Madam's meaning, once the marriage is consummated and the ceremony completed, Left Langzhong would have no choice. Then the master would personally discuss it with him, and the matter would be settled."
Zisu also sighed, "Fourth Miss is truly pitiful."
Jiang Ruan didn't think Jiang Dan was pitiful. Since she had the cunning to scheme against Left Langzhong last night, she must have had plans all along. She just didn't expect to be outmaneuvered. As fellow illegitimate daughters, Jiang Li naturally couldn't bear to see Jiang Dan marry so well. Between Jiang Li and Jiang Dan, Jiang Quan would undoubtedly favor Jiang Li more. Whatever Second Madam said to Jiang Quan must have appealed to his interests, prompting this decision.
Lianqiao added, "Though it's unkind of Third Miss to steal Fourth Miss's marriage, the Left Langzhong's family is extremely good. She'll surely have a much better life than Fourth Miss in the future. Even if Fourth Miss received the master's consolation, she must feel bitter inside."
Jiang Ruan shook her head, "Wrong. Jiang Li won't fare better than Jiang Dan."
Zisu was puzzled, "Why do you say that, young miss?"
"Wait and see. In a few years, the truth will reveal itself."
What kind of person was Jiang Dan? She wasn't one to swallow grievances silently. Jiang Quan thought he could manipulate Jiang Dan at will, but he was gravely mistaken. Undeniably, this incident with Jiang Li had planted seeds of hatred in Jiang Dan's heart. Like a venomous snake lying in wait, once an opportunity arose, she would strike her enemies dead without hesitation, leaving no room for mercy.
Jiang Li would have her hands full.
The carriage rolled along the road when it suddenly came to a halt. Lianqiao was startled and instinctively lifted the carriage curtain, "What's going on?"
Jiang Ruan tilted her head and glimpsed a familiar figure through the gap in the curtain. After a brief thought, she instructed the coachman, "Have the driver step down first."
They happened to be in a secluded alley with no one around. Zisu looked concerned, but Jiang Ruan had already alighted from the carriage.
Sure enough, as soon as she stepped down, she saw the figure standing ahead in the alley. She signaled for Zisu and Lianqiao to stay in the carriage and walked toward Xiao Shao. When she reached him, she said, "Prince Xiao."
Xiao Shao looked down at her and asked calmly, "Are you accompanying the Empress Dowager to the ancestral temple?"Jiang Ruan nodded. "Yes. It is my good fortune to accompany Her Majesty the Empress Dowager on this journey." After a pause, she looked at Xiao Shao and said, "On the day of the palace banquet, thank you for saving me, Prince Xiao."
"If you were determined to get injured, I could only let the sword qi wound you slightly. In the end, you were still hurt—it was my lack of consideration," Xiao Shao replied, shaking his head.
Jiang Ruan was taken aback. He had actually seen through her intention to deliberately meet that sword strike. A complicated feeling rose in her heart, but she still smiled and said, "Prince Xiao and I are different. Whatever I want, I must scheme and fight for it myself. If I hadn't blocked that sword, I wouldn't have been able to obtain what I desired."
"Did you obtain what you wanted?" Xiao Shao raised an eyebrow and asked.
Jiang Ruan gazed into the distance. "Almost."
A flicker of complex emotion passed through Xiao Shao's beautiful eyes. After a moment of silence, he took something from his sleeve and handed it to Jiang Ruan.
It was a delicate, dark-green short sword, about the same size as the one Jiang Xin Zhi had given her, adorned with exquisite cat's eye emeralds—clearly no ordinary item. Jiang Ruan had seen something similar before, likely a treasure from the Treasure Exchange Pavilion. She froze for a moment. "Prince Xiao, this is...?"
"The family temple is not entirely safe," Xiao Shao said coldly. "With this and the Blood Moon Bracelet, it should be enough to aid you." He added, "After you leave, I will also head to Dongyi. On the day of my departure, I won’t be able to bid you farewell."
Jiang Ruan was taken aback. How strange—this man was actually mentioning farewells. The short sword felt heavy in her hand, weighing on her heart. She shook her head. "This is far too valuable. You’ve already given me the Blood Moon Bracelet. I’m afraid I can’t accept this."
"A birthday gift," Xiao Shao said.
"Huh?" Jiang Ruan was stunned again.
Xiao Shao explained, "This sword is your birthday gift." Then he added, "What Xiao gives, he does not take back."
Jiang Ruan nearly laughed inwardly. Refusing now would only make her seem petty.
She studied the man before her—dressed in dark robes embroidered with fine patterns, his demeanor noble and refined, his handsome face striking no matter where he stood. This was Jinying Wang of the Da Jin Dynasty, the dream lover of countless young women. Yet now, those beautiful eyes reflected only her.
Such a man... She found herself flustered under the gaze of those dark, long-lashed eyes. Then she snapped out of it, silently scolding herself. Right now, she was just a young girl—in Xiao Shao’s eyes, she probably didn’t even count as a woman. What was there to be flustered about?
"Thank you, Prince Xiao," she said.
Xiao Shao’s gaze lingered on Jiang Ruan’s wrist. Suddenly, he remarked, "It suits you."
The Blood Moon Bracelet on Jiang Ruan’s wrist emitted a faint blue glow. Under Xiao Shao’s gaze, she instinctively pulled her hand back as if stung, covering her wrist with her sleeve. The moment she did, she regretted it—why hide? Perhaps it was because she was about to leave the capital, and this ally had saved her multiple times. That must be why her behavior felt odd today.
After exchanging a few more words with Xiao Shao, she hurriedly boarded the carriage. As the carriage drove out of the alley, the dark-robed young man stood unmoving, his figure as poised and unyielding as a pine tree. He watched the carriage until it disappeared from sight, only turning to leave when his shadow guard approached from behind.
Inside the carriage, Jiang Ruan sank into thought. Three years from now in her past life—what had she been like then?
...
Meanwhile, chaos reigned in the Jiang residence.
Xia Yan felt as though a knife were twisting in her heart every time she thought of Jiang Ruan accompanying Empress Dowager Yide to the family temple. Why did such an opportunity fall to that wretched girl?
Jiang Susu had been pale-faced for days. The words Ye Li had spoken at the palace banquet had struck deep into her heart—how could such a dashing and extraordinary man have feelings for Jiang Ruan? The injustice gnawed at her. Now, hearing the news of Jiang Ruan’s departure, she sneered. "Good. Let her go. Better yet, let her die in the family temple."
She turned to Xia Yan. "Mother, I want to go to the family temple."
"Have you lost your mind?" Xia Yan was shocked. "What do you mean, go to the family temple? Do you know what that would do to your life?"
But Jiang Susu, unlike her usual agitated self, remained eerily calm, her pale face expressionless. "Mother, I’ve made up my mind. I want to go. I’ve already asked Father, and he agreed.""Su Su, what happened?" Xia Yan asked anxiously. Jiang Susu's demeanor only made her more uneasy.
"Nothing," Jiang Susu seemed reluctant to elaborate, turning her head away. "I'm just tired of life in the mansion. Going to the family temple might be good—peaceful and quiet. Didn’t Jiang Ruan also go to the imperial ancestral temple? Why can’t I do the same? If it’s about building a good reputation, hasn’t she gotten this far relying on just that? Three years—I can do it too."
Xia Yan wanted to persuade her further, but Jiang Susu cut her off. "Mother, there’s no need to say more. My mind is made up. I’ll leave in a few days."
The news that Jiang Ruan would accompany Empress Dowager Yide to the family temple naturally stirred envy among many in the Jiang household. Jiang Li was no exception. Though she had secured a marriage with a Left Secretariat official, the thought of Jiang Ruan gaining connections with the imperial family filled her with resentment. Meanwhile, in Jiang Dan’s courtyard, the girl lay weakly in bed.
A maid wept as she pleaded, "Miss, please eat something. Your health will suffer if this continues."
"I’m just unwilling to accept it," Jiang Dan rasped. "I schemed and struggled, only to end up like this. Jiang Li stole my betrothal, Jiang Susu has Father’s protection, and even Jiang Ruan—I thought she might not fare much better than me, yet now she’s basking in glory. What have I gained?" Her eyes darkened with bitterness as she whispered, "I just can’t accept it. One day, I’ll rise above them all. I’ll make them look up to me."
If there was anyone in the Jiang household who was truly pleased, it was Old Madam Jiang. After all, Jiang Ruan bore the Jiang surname—she was a Jiang, no matter what others thought. Whenever outsiders spoke of Jiang Ruan, they would remember she came from the Jiang family. The Emperor’s favor toward Jiang Ruan was, in essence, favor toward the Jiang household. The more she thought about it, the more she found Jiang Ruan and her brother endearing.
At that moment, Jiang Xin Zhi was at Ruan Residence, speaking with Jiang Ruan. She had already learned of his impending expedition to the Celestial Jin Kingdom. In her past life, the war between the Celestial Jin Kingdom and the Da Jin Dynasty had dragged on for five long years—though by then, Jiang Xin Zhi was no longer alive. Now, history was repeating itself. She knew the Da Jin Dynasty would ultimately win, but it would be a pyrrhic victory. The Celestial Jin Kingdom had an exceptionally brilliant strategist and formidable weapons, nearly overwhelming the numerically superior Da Jin forces.
Jiang Xin Zhi had already made up his mind, though he was still uneasy about leaving Jiang Ruan behind. But upon returning home, he learned that Empress Dowager Yide intended to take Jiang Ruan with her. A weight lifted from his heart—being under the Empress Dowager’s protection was far safer than staying in the Jiang household. Still, he couldn’t shake his doubts. "I don’t know why Her Majesty has summoned you, but remember—serving the ruler is like taming a tiger, and the same goes for the Empress Dowager. A Ruan, be cautious. Don’t let yourself suffer."
Jiang Ruan smiled. "Elder Brother, don’t worry about me. I know what I’m doing." She understood that Jiang Xin Zhi’s decision to go to war was for her sake. If not for the desire to better protect her, why would he risk his life for advancement? The once-gentle scholar of their past life, who had wielded a brush, now carried a sword. His pristine robes had been replaced by armor.
"Thank you, Elder Brother," she said.
Jiang Xin Zhi patted her head but said nothing.
...On the day the Empress Dowager left the capital, there were thirty-six soft sedan chairs, nine hundred elite guards, and eighty-five carriages laden with silks and jade. The procession stretched magnificently, its grandeur unmatched. The Emperor stood atop the high palace walls, watching the entourage fade into the distance.
Jiang Xin Zhi's gaze was reluctant. Jiang Ruan quietly slipped a folded paper into his waistband. Startled, he turned to her, only to see her smile softly as she whispered, "One letter is for you, elder brother, and the other is for Master Huijue in the capital. Take care."
It was something she had spent an entire night transcribing from memory. In her past life in the palace, she had heard tales of the wars between the Celestial Jin Kingdom and the Da Jin Dynasty. The most perilous battles had been recounted in vivid detail by the palace attendants. She combed through her memories, writing down every battle she could recall and handing them to Jiang Xin Zhi. Whether he would doubt her, she no longer cared—she only wanted to ensure his safety. Now, she wished desperately that she had remembered more clearly, regretting that she hadn’t listened more attentively in her past life. Every extra detail could mean another chance for Jiang Xin Zhi to survive.
As for Master Huijue’s letter, it was merely a safeguard to ensure certain matters would proceed as usual during her three-year absence from the capital.
Jiang Xin Zhi smiled. "Take care, A Ruan," he said before turning away.
Luzhu lifted the carriage curtain and gazed outside. "Such grandeur," she remarked. "But it’s still rather sad that you’ve only just arrived in the capital and must leave again so soon."
"I’m not sad," Jiang Ruan replied with a faint smile. Outside, she could still glimpse the fluttering hem of Jiang Xin Zhi’s robe. As she turned toward the unfamiliar three years ahead—a span of time that had never existed in her past life—this young general would also step onto the battlefield, fighting to claim his own unique pride and dignity.
(End of Chapter)
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