Hearing this, Jiang Chun was momentarily stunned. She quietly observed the young man before her. In truth, their ages weren't far apart—Song Shilan was even two months older than her. Yet she already had a twelve-year-old child, while Song Shilan remained an unwed young prince without even a single concubine.
Jiang Chun lowered her gaze, her racing heart gradually calming down. She didn't possess Chu Yu's fiery passion and courage—she was just an ordinary woman who never pinned her future on elusive emotions. Thus she replied calmly, "Your Highness must be joking."
"Let me come in for some tea?"
"That would be improper."
"Then I'll speak with you in the courtyard."
"We have nothing to discuss."
"In that case, I'll force my way in—"
"You—"
"What are you doing?!"
A loud shout made them both turn. There stood Wei Lingchun at the end of the corridor, having just returned from martial practice. Still holding his tasseled spear, his hair tied simply back, sweat beading on his forehead, he exuded youthful vigor as he coldly demanded, "Prince Song, why are you standing outside my mother's door?"
"Young Master," Song Shilan took a step back, smiling at Wei Lingchun. "I came to speak with your mother."
"My mother doesn't wish to speak with you," Wei Lingchun said icily. "Please leave."
Song Shilan fell silent. He glanced between Jiang Chun and Wei Lingchun, then bowed with a smile. "Should Second Madam ever change her mind and wish to converse with this humble Song, I shall be waiting at any time."
Jiang Chun responded, "Your Highness, take care on your way."
As Song Shilan departed, Jiang Chun seemed weary. She turned to enter her chambers, with Wei Lingchun following behind. Handing his spear to a servant and wiping his sweat, he said, "Today I heard Song Shilan came again with betrothal gifts. Grandmother's easily swayed—after his sweet talk, she actually accepted them. The whole household says you're getting married."
"Don't listen to their nonsense." Jiang Chun personally wrung out a damp cloth and handed it to Wei Lingchun. "Wipe your sweat."
"Mother," Wei Lingchun accepted the cloth, wiping his face as he lowered his eyes. "Actually, I think Prince Song seems quite decent."
Jiang Chun froze slightly, frowning. "Why is a child thinking so much?"
"I'm not a child anymore." Wei Lingchun spoke earnestly. When Jiang Chun turned, she saw the determination in his eyes. "I heard Seventh Uncle was my age when he followed Father to battle. He promised me that once I defeat Uncle Wei Xia in combat, he'll take me to the battlefield with him."
Jiang Chun's heart skipped a beat. She opened her mouth to speak but couldn't find the words.
Wei Shu had remained on the battlefield forever. Seeing her son's face—so resembling Wei Shu's—and hearing him speak of going to war, she couldn't help recalling when Wei Shu had left. Yet she couldn't stop him. War seemed the inevitable path for every member of the Wei family. Had Wei Lingchun been unwilling, she would have moved heaven and earth to steer him toward scholarly pursuits instead. But all these years, Wei Lingchun had wholeheartedly followed in his father's footsteps. She had witnessed his relentless efforts, and thus she dared not—could not—say anything.She remained silent, and Wei Shu chuckled, "I know what Mother is worried about. But everyone is born with their own destiny. I believe that being someone who protects others, even if it means dying on the battlefield, is something I have no regrets about. My only concern is for you, Mother..."
"You needn’t worry about me," Jiang Chun said calmly. "I am your mother. I don’t need a child to worry about me."
"When I was little, Father once secretly told me that though Mother appears strong, deep down she’s still like a young girl. He said when I grew up, I should take good care of you, just as he did."
Jiang Chun froze slightly, and Wei Lingchun continued, "Father once told me that if one day he were to pass away, and you met someone you liked, he hoped I wouldn’t be upset. Because he knew that even if you chose someone else, you would still love me and have loved him. Life just has different stages. Loving him well while he was alive and moving on properly after his departure—that was his greatest wish."
"Enough!" Jiang Chun suddenly raised her voice, but immediately regretted her outburst. She pressed her lips together, turned away, and after calming herself, spoke slowly, "I have no intention of remarrying. Focus on your martial training, follow your Seventh Uncle to the battlefield, and take care of yourself. Don’t dwell on such inauspicious thoughts."
Then she looked up and asked, "Have you studied today’s military strategy lesson?"
"Mother," Wei Lingchun sighed, "Do you truly not like Song Shilan?"
"I..."
"Look at me and answer honestly," Wei Lingchun said earnestly. "Do you truly not like Song Shilan?"
This time, Jiang Chun couldn’t bring herself to answer.
Wei Shu was right—life had different stages. She had loved him wholeheartedly back then, and even now, she cherished his memory. Had she never met Song Shilan, that love might have lasted a lifetime.
But then there was Song Shilan.
He was entirely different from Wei Shu—lacking his simplicity and earnestness. Born a concubine’s son, the man had climbed his way up, his methods and heart far more unscrupulous compared to Wei Shu.
Yet, undeniably, such a man also had his own brilliance, drawing people in like moths to a flame, impossible to resist.
Unable to lie any longer, Wei Shu sighed softly and stood up. "Sixth Aunt is hosting a banquet in the backyard four days from now. She’s invited you."
"I know."
"Then, Mother, I’ll take my leave."
"Mm."
After Wei Lingchun left, Jiang Chun closed her eyes, pressing a hand to her forehead. After a long while, she let out a quiet sigh.
Song Shilan’s visit wasn’t solely to see Jiang Chun—he was also here for trade negotiations with Bailing. Qiongzhou had few battles but ample grain and few soldiers, while Bailing was rich in mines. With Han Xiu stationed here, it was also a hub for weapon production. Song Shilan had already discussed matters with Wei Yun beforehand, and this trip was specifically to inspect the finalized weapons.
He lingered for several days. Every evening after returning from Han Xiu’s place, he would stop by Jiang Chun’s door.
Thick-skinned as he was, when Jiang Chun refused him entry, he simply perched on the wall and loudly recited love poems he had written.
Handsome and silver-tongued, his recitals often drew a crowd of onlookers. Embarrassed, Jiang Chun had no choice but to let him into the courtyard.
And so, the poetry recitals turned into playing the qin, flute performances, flower deliveries, and hairpin gifts...In short, he employed every trick in the book to pursue her. Everyone watched the spectacle with amusement, while Jiang Chun herself wasn’t sure how she felt—flustered and annoyed when she saw him, yet when the courtyard fell quiet, she found it too desolate.
Finally, she said coldly to Song Shilan, “Young Master Song, if you truly like me, why must you do things that upset me?”
Song Shilan had been sitting on the windowsill reciting poetry. The peach tree had already sprouted buds, its branches dotted with blossoms. He set the book down, turned his head, and smiled. “If you’re truly unhappy, then I’ll leave. But Jiang Chun, if I go, you’ll be the one who’s truly unhappy.”
Jiang Chun froze for a moment. Song Shilan lowered his head and continued reciting, “Fair and gentle maiden, a gentleman’s good match…”
Four days later, when Wang Lan hosted a banquet, Song Shilan was also preparing to leave. Everyone treated the gathering as his farewell party, filling the air with lively chatter. Jiang Chun sat directly across from Song Shilan as Wang Lan served the wine she had brewed, urging everyone to drink.
Just as the conversation flowed, a servant announced from outside, “General Shen You has arrived.”
Wang Lan paused in surprise, but Song Shilan chuckled and said, “He’s probably here for me.”
Wang Lan lowered her gaze and gave a quiet acknowledgment. Song Shilan then stood and called out, “General Shen!”
Shen You, upon seeing the crowd in the courtyard, hesitated briefly. His eyes swept past Wang Lan swiftly, as if he hadn’t noticed her at all, before he respectfully greeted Liu Xueyang and the others. Then, turning to Song Shilan, he said, “Prince Song.”
Song Shilan gestured to a small table with a smile. “Let’s sit and talk.”
In truth, Shen You had no urgent business—it was just that with the war now at a standstill and Wei Yun leading troops to Kun Province, and with Song Shilan visiting White Ridge, Wei Yun had sent Shen You to meet with him.
After exchanging news, Song Shilan and Shen You began drinking. Wang Lan and Jiang Chun sat together in silence, but with so many children around, the atmosphere didn’t feel awkward.
Wang Lan’s wine was sweet but deceptively strong. By the time Song Shilan and Shen You finished their conversation, many of the guests were already tipsy. Liu Xueyang had the servants help everyone disperse.
Jiang Chun was escorted back by her maid. She appeared sober, far from drunk—yet when Song Shilan called out to her from behind, she suddenly felt as if she truly might be intoxicated.
She saw him standing at the end of the corridor, calling to her, “Second Madam, shall I take you to see the peach blossoms?”
Jiang Chun didn’t answer. Song Shilan then added, “Or the stars?”
She remained silent, gazing into his smiling eyes. For some reason, after a long pause, she finally murmured, “Either is fine.”
Song Shilan walked over cheerfully and led Jiang Chun out of the estate on horseback, riding to the hills outside the city. They left their horses at the foot of the mountain and climbed to the summit. Under the bright moonlight, the landscape stretched before them in sharp relief. Song Shilan pointed to a distant road. “When the sun rises, I’ll take that path back to Qiong Province.”
“Mm.”
“Next time I find the chance, I’ll come back to see you.”
“There’s no need—”
“Come, come down here.” Song Shilan reached for Jiang Chun’s hand. After a moment’s hesitation, she didn’t pull away, allowing him to guide her as she stepped onto a rock in front of them. Together, they moved to the edge of a large boulder at the cliff’s edge. Song Shilan patted the spot beside him. “Sit here. The view is best—whether you want to see the blossoms, the stars, or watch me leave.”Jiang Chun didn’t speak. She sat quietly as he held her wrist, sensing no resistance from her. Song Shilan’s next words suddenly caught in his throat. After hesitating for a moment, he abruptly said, “Jiang Chun, has anyone ever read your palm before?”
“No.”
“Then,” Song Shilan turned to look at her. Under the moonlight, the girl’s expression was cool and composed. She seemed fully aware of what she was saying and doing, yet also seemed to know nothing at all. After another pause, he finally said, “Shall I read your palm?”
“Alright.”
Jiang Chun lowered her eyes as Song Shilan slid his hand down to grasp hers. Her trembling hand unfolded in his palm, and he gazed at her fair, delicate fingers for a long while before slowly smiling.
“I know you’re drunk,” he said gently, lifting his eyes to meet hers with a soft laugh. “But I’m still happy. Jiang Chun, I think in this lifetime, I’ll always be able to wait for you, won’t I?”
Jiang Chun remained silent, simply watching him quietly. She felt an extraordinary sense of peace and calm within her.
Song Shilan closed her hand gently and said, “After I return, I’ll write to you. Will you write back?”
“Even if you don’t reply,” he added earnestly, “I’ll still write to you.”
“Song Shilan,” Jiang Chun finally spoke, meeting his clear, tender gaze with equal seriousness. “If you marry me, people will laugh at you.”
“If I don’t marry you,” Song Shilan chuckled, “I’ll laugh at myself.”
“Jiang Chun, if I cared about what others think,” his eyes darkened slightly, “as a mere illegitimate son, how could I have come this far?”
Every step he had taken was fraught with danger, paved with bones. What did the words of others mean to him?
Jiang Chun didn’t respond. She lowered her eyes and murmured softly, “Oh.”
“Jiang Chun,” Song Shilan asked curiously, “why did you like Wei Shu?”
Jiang Chun froze, her thoughts drifting. Normally, she wouldn’t speak so freely about Wei Shu, but now she felt an uncharacteristic courage to recall his kindness.
“I was an illegitimate daughter. No one ever treated me well before. When I was married off, everyone said Wei Shu was just a rough soldier—that he’d surely beat me…”
“But the first time I saw him, on our wedding day, I was so scared and nervous that I twisted my ankle. I thought everything was ruined, but he carried me on his back all the way inside.”
Jiang Chun smiled faintly. “No one had ever been so kind to me before. He was the first.”
Song Shilan listened quietly as she recounted Wei Shu’s goodness, one memory after another. It seemed she could never run out of things to say about him. Only when dawn broke and she gradually sobered did her voice grow quieter. Suddenly, she remembered—no matter how good Wei Shu had been, he was gone now. Like morning dew, evaporated without a trace when the sun rose.
Her enthusiasm faded. Slowly, she stood up and said, “It’s time for you to leave. Go back.”
As she turned to walk away, the lingering effects of the wine made her stumble backward. Song Shilan swiftly caught her, steadying her. “Are you alright?”
Jiang Chun didn’t answer. Noticing she was lightly lifting one foot, Song Shilan paused before crouching down. “Let me carry you down.”Jiang Chun remained silent as Song Shilan chuckled, "You're so inconsistent, all wishy-washy. When I first met you, you were much more straightforward and decisive."
As he spoke, Song Shilan suddenly grabbed her and pulled her onto his back. Then he deftly carried her up the mountain, cheerfully asking, "Isn't this more comfortable than a sedan chair?"
Jiang Chun didn't respond. Leaning against his back, she suddenly felt as if she had returned to her fifteen-year-old self.
She closed her eyes, listening to Song Shilan chatter beside her. He talked endlessly, some of it even sounding a bit childish. Resting quietly against him, she realized she didn’t feel quite as miserable anymore.
She drifted into a drowsy sleep. When Song Shilan reached the foot of the mountain, he slowed his pace. Hearing her steady breathing behind him, he couldn’t help but smile.
"Such a tsundere," he murmured with a low laugh.
Exiting the forest, he spotted his guards waiting by the horses. Before they could speak, he silenced them with a glance.
The guards had already packed everything, ready for his return. He carefully placed Jiang Chun into the carriage, tucking her in with a blanket. Gazing at her sleeping profile, he softened his voice and said, "I’ll be leaving now. Remember to write to me."
"Take time to go out and enjoy yourself while you’re home. Don’t worry too much. You’re still young—don’t live like some lifeless old woman."
As he spoke, he gently tucked a loose strand of her hair behind her ear, his voice tender. "Wei Shu treats you well, but I’ll treat you even better. The way he treats you comes naturally to him, but my nature isn’t so good. Still," he leaned down, whispering by her ear, "I like you."
I like you, and I’m willing to spoil you, to love you.
The sleeping woman’s eyelids fluttered slightly, but she said nothing. Song Shilan chuckled softly and stepped out of the carriage.
Outside, the sound of hooves galloping away echoed. Slowly, Jiang Chun opened her eyes.
While White Ridge remained peaceful, Wei Yun had already mustered his troops in Kun Province, awaiting the signal from Gu Chusheng and The Eldest Princess to march straight for Hua Jing.
"Lord Gu has retrieved the First Madam, but they are now under house arrest by Zhao Yue. The First Madam is recuperating at Lord Gu’s residence. He says her constitution is weak and she needs rest, so it’s best not to act rashly. He urges Your Highness to remain patient and wait until they fully secure Hua Jing before making any moves," the scout reported the news from the capital.
Wei Yun paused his brush and looked up. "What exactly is the First Madam’s condition?"
"Apparently, the long journey during her pregnancy, combined with the bewitching drug Zhao Yue used on her, has left her in need of recovery."
Wei Yun lowered his gaze, suppressing his emotions, then turned to the reports from Bai Province. "What does The Eldest Princess say?"
"The Eldest Princess reports that the Emperor has summoned Yu Linlang to the capital and has barely seen her. He likely suspects he’s been poisoned, but it’s unclear how skilled Yu Linlang is in medicine. She advises Your Highness to prepare for the worst—to be ready to lead troops into Heaven’s Guard Pass if necessary. Moreover, The Eldest Princess wonders if Your Highness could find a way to eliminate Yu Linlang."
Wei Yun fell silent for a moment, considering. Then he turned and said, "Summon Shen Wushuang."
As he spoke, he continued reviewing the reports. "What else?"
"News from Tuso," the scout continued. "Sucha seems to be mobilizing troops."
"Mobilizing troops?" Wei Yun frowned. "What for?"Yet after asking, a sudden realization flashed through his mind, and he urgently inquired, "When did Yu Linlang enter Hua Jing?"
"Half a month ago."
"When was Tuso's message sent?"
"Five days ago."
Wei Yun fell silent. He calculated the time it would take for the message to travel from Zhao Yue to the Northern Di, for Tuso to detect it, and then relay it back to Kun Province. His expression darkened as he formed a plan.
He never hesitated to think the worst of Zhao Yue. It wouldn’t surprise him if Zhao Yue allied with external enemies when necessary—after all, it wasn’t the first time Zhao Yue had done such things. If Zhao Yue knew he was facing death, he would likely stop at nothing.
Sucha had long been cowed by their forces. If not for the internal strife in Great Chu, Wei Yun would have already subdued Sucha. Now, the Northern Di relied on Tuso and Sucha to maintain a stalemate. Wei Yun had originally planned to deal with Zhao Yue before turning to Sucha, but Sucha likely knew his intentions. Thus, Sucha would spare no effort to aid Zhao Yue, and Zhao Yue must have promised Sucha something in return.
But now, with the Wei, Song, and Chu families united and Qing Province pacified, the Xie Family and the forces of Yan Province alone, even with Sucha’s help, would hardly be enough to overthrow them. So Zhao Yue would undoubtedly try every means to incite external enemies...
As Wei Yun pondered, Tao Quan, stroking his beard beside him, asked, "What is Your Highness thinking about?"
"Sir," Wei Yun looked up at Tao Quan, "if you were Zhao Yue and wanted to seek help now, who would you turn to?"
Tao Quan smiled. "Zhao Yue’s current enemies are you, Song Shilan, and Chu Linyang. Song Shilan is a fence-sitter, Chu Linyang prioritizes the people, and you share a blood feud with him. So his primary target would undoubtedly be you. In that case, I would certainly reach out to the Northern Di."
Wei Yun nodded. "And then?"
"The relationship between the Chu Eldest Miss and the Wei family is well known, and Chu Linyang values his family deeply. So, to restrain Chu Linyang, Zhao Yue would have to stir up trouble with the Chen State, harassing Luozhou to keep Chu Linyang occupied. On one hand, he’s already kidnapped the Chu Eldest Miss; on the other, he must incite the Chen State."
"If you wanted the Chen State to harass Luozhou, how would you do it?"
"The Chen State and Luozhou have been at war for years, sharing a generational feud. Offer them substantial benefits."
"That’s not enough."
"Then what does Your Highness think..." Tao Quan seemed puzzled. Wei Yun’s gaze sharpened. "The Chen State’s land is barren; they mainly rely on dry rice and livestock. Their repeated invasions were due to domestic disasters and food shortages. This year, their harvest is average. If I were Zhao Yue and wanted the Chen State to mobilize troops, I’d scatter agents across the land to purchase grain at exorbitant prices with lightning speed. By the time the authorities realize the grain shortage, I’d offer the ruler even greater incentives."
Tao Quan remained silent. Wei Yun set aside the letter in his hand and stood up. "We can’t afford to be slower than him."
"Your Highness means, while they buy grain at high prices, we sell grain at low prices to ensure the Chen State’s food supply..."
"Your Highness." At that moment, Shen Wushuang walked in with a smile. "I heard you called for me?"
Wei Yun didn’t respond immediately. He turned to Shen Wushuang and said, "I need your help with something."
"Oh?"
"To kill someone."
The words stunned Shen Wushuang. Wei Yun continued calmly, "Zhao Yue is surely seeking medical help everywhere now. Disguise yourself and go treat him. He’s extremely paranoid, so once you’re there, don’t try any tricks—just treat him properly. Then, under the pretense of a consultation, meet Yu Linlang."
"Yu Linlang?"Shen Wushuang raised her voice: "She went to treat Zhao Yue?"
"Mm," Wei Yun replied coldly. "She can't cure Zhao Yue. If you meet her, try to turn her if possible. If not," Wei Yun lowered his voice, "send her off properly."
"Then how do I return?"
Shen Wushuang was momentarily stunned. Wei Yun remained silent, then looked up at him. "Take a signal flare with you. When the time comes, send out your hiding location. My men will come to retrieve you."
"However," Wei Yun hesitated briefly, "I can't guarantee it a hundred percent..."
Before he could finish, Shen Wushuang already understood. He pondered silently before smiling. "Alright."
He then said, "If I don't make it out, I'll have Zhao Yue pay with his life."
"Try to come back."
"That depends on fate, doesn't it?"
Shen Wushuang shrugged nonchalantly before adding, "I'll go make arrangements then. I'll have the commonly used military medicines prepared for departure tomorrow morning."
Hearing this, Wei Yun suddenly remembered something and called out to stop him. "Are there any medicines that are absolutely essential in the army?"
"What?"
Shen Wushuang was puzzled. Wei Yun continued, "Are there any medicines that are indispensable, absolutely necessary for the army?"
"Of course," Shen Wushuang chuckled. "There's one basic medicine specifically for stopping bleeding. It also prevents infection and plagues. Most importantly, it's cheap. You know how expensive most military medicines are..."
"Do you know about the medicine situation in Chen's army?"
"Not hard to guess," Shen Wushuang replied swiftly. "Such basic medicines are usually produced domestically. Once they're transported long distances, they become expensive, and military funds can't cover it. Chen has a medicine called Frost Red, which is equivalent to our..."
"How much is produced annually?"
Wei Yun quickly pressed for details about this medicine. Though Shen Wushuang didn't understand why he was asking, he answered honestly.
After listening, Wei Yun nodded. Seeing that Wei Yun had nothing more to say, Shen Wushuang asked, "Shall I go then?"
"Mhm."
Wei Yun acknowledged. Just as Shen Wushuang reached the door, Wei Yun suddenly called out again. "Wushuang." Shen Wushuang turned back to see the young man looking up at him earnestly. "Take care."
Shen Wushuang paused, then waved dismissively. "Don't worry, nothing will happen."
After a brief hesitation, he finally added, "Wei Yun, sometimes a person shouldn't be too good. Don't always think about others—be a little selfish. Say what you want, do what you want. Don't just tolerate and indulge endlessly. If you're too good to someone for too long, they'll stop appreciating it and take it for granted."
Wei Yun hadn't expected such words from Shen Wushuang. After a moment's thought, Shen Wushuang continued, "I think the way you dared to pull a knife and stab the table when you broke your leg as a kid seemed more human."
"Alright," he waved again. "Enough reminiscing. I'm off now."
With that, Shen Wushuang turned away. "Don't call me again—I really have to go."
This time, Wei Yun said nothing more. He silently watched Shen Wushuang's retreating figure until it disappeared from sight. Only then did Tao Quan speak up. "Your Highness, have you come up with a plan?"
"We'll sell grain," Wei Yun turned back and declared. "If Zhao Yue starts selling grain, we'll trade ours for Frost Red. Once Frost Red is exhausted, we'll trade for horses."
"Your Highness means that by offsetting grain supplies, Chen won't face shortages and thus won't send troops. If they still decide to attack, they'll lack medicine and horses. Once war breaks out, they'll collapse soon after."
"Exactly."
"But what if Chen realizes...""So we must act quickly," Wei Yun said decisively. "The moment Zhao Yue makes his move, we strike immediately—bribe officials, conduct black market trades. By the time the news reaches the Emperor of Chen, it'll be too late for him to react."
"But..." Tao Quan frowned. "After the recent disaster and with our ongoing war against the Northern Di, our grain reserves are likely insufficient..."
"We'll write to Chu Linyang. We'll contribute part of the grain, supplemented by his. Most importantly, we'll borrow grain from Xining." Wei Yun's words stunned Tao Quan. Xining was separated from Great Chu by Chen—it was indeed too far away.
After a moment of thought, Tao Quan finally grasped his meaning. "Your Highness, are you saying you intend to go to Xining to borrow grain?"
"Yes."
Wei Yun's voice was cold. "I must go to Xining to discuss our grand strategy against Chen with its king."
Xining had been at war with Chen for years. Borrowing grain from them and then persuading them to join the campaign against Chen was no easy task.
Yet Wei Yun had already made up his mind. He stood up and said, "Have Wei Qiu prepare. We depart tonight. Master Tao," he turned to face Tao Quan solemnly, "after I leave, you will assume full command of military affairs. Shen You will defend Bai Province against the Northern Di, Qin Shiyue will hold Yan Province, and the remaining generals will be at your disposal." With that, he took a step back and bowed deeply. "I entrust this to you."
"Your Highness," Tao Quan hurriedly helped him up, "this is my duty. There's no need for such courtesy."
"My journey to Xining is fraught with uncertainty," Wei Yun said calmly. "If I do not return, I hope you will take charge, ensure the safe return of the Grand Madam, and assist her in selecting a successor. No matter what, support them well."
"Your Highness need not worry," Tao Quan replied earnestly. "I understand."
Wei Yun nodded and spent some more time discussing plans with Tao Quan. After drafting two letters—one to Chu Linyang and another to Song Shilan—Wei Xia had already packed their belongings and was waiting with Wei Qiu for Wei Yun.
After bidding farewell to Tao Quan, Wei Yun set off under the cover of night, traveling swiftly toward Xining.
Along the way, Wei Yun sent messages via carrier pigeon, gathering intelligence on Chen's grain prices while directing the transportation of grain to hidden locations in Chen—though he refrained from selling it yet.
By now, Zhao Yue had already acted, and Chen's grain prices began to soar. After establishing the entire transportation network across Chen, Wei Yun finally arrived in Xining. He submitted a formal request for an audience with the King of Xining, but after a day of waiting, there was no response.
Wei Xia grew restless. "Your Highness, what does the King of Xining mean by this? Leaving us waiting for an entire day..."
Wei Yun remained silent, his eyes closed, hands tucked into his sleeves as if deep in thought.
Wei Qiu scoffed. "It's obvious. Xining doesn't want to get involved. They have no intention of meeting us."
"He probably knows we're here to persuade him," Wei Xia said, rubbing his temples. "If we could at least meet, there'd be hope. But if we can't even get an audience, what then? Time is running out..."
"I've heard," Wei Yun slowly opened his eyes, "that tomorrow is the Spring God Festival. The king will visit the Goddess Temple."
Wei Xia and Wei Qiu exchanged glances. Wei Xia hesitated. "Your Highness, are you suggesting..."
"Today, I'll arrange for someone to sneak me into the Goddess Temple. Tomorrow, you two will lead a group to storm the temple gates and create chaos at the front. I'll take advantage of the confusion to seize the King of Xining." A cold glint flashed in Wei Yun's eyes. "If he refuses to talk, then we'll force him to!"While Wei Yun was making preparations in Xining, people in Bai Province and Qiong Province began falling ill one after another.
At first, it was just one or two individuals, but the disease spread rapidly.
Wei Qingping was the first to notice something amiss. On her way back from Qing Province, when she reached the city of Bai Province, she was asked to visit a village.
"No one knows what happened. Everyone fell ill overnight," the village chief coughed as he led Wei Qingping forward. His symptoms seemed like an ordinary cold, and those around him paid little attention. Wei Qingping, wearing a herb-soaked mask and gloves, kept her distance from everyone as she followed the chief.
Well aware that plagues could break out at any time after an earthquake, she had always been extremely cautious in her medical practice. The chief described everyone's symptoms to her, but when they reached the village and Wei Qingping saw the people lying in a makeshift shelter, her heart sank.
Initial symptoms—coughing, diarrhea, persistent high fever...
These signs bore an eerie resemblance to the plague she had first discovered in Qing Province. Back then, she and Gu Chusheng had handled it exceptionally well. Logically, even if it resurfaced, it should have been in Qing Province.
Moreover, according to the chief, the disease could kill an adult in less than ten days—far faster than the outbreak in Qing Province.
Most importantly, if this was indeed a mutated strain of the Qing Province plague...
There was still no cure.
With a heavy heart, Wei Qingping listened to the groans filling the shelter. She stepped forward and used a wooden stick to lift the blanket covering a patient. Festering, pus-filled wounds were exposed before her eyes, and her expression changed drastically.
It was the Qing Province plague...
Yet it hadn't resurfaced in Qing Province. Instead, it had erupted in Bai Province, in a city far from Qing Province—downstream of Jiang Bai City's water source!
Wei Qingping's face turned deathly pale. As she looked at the wailing people on the ground, a patient crawled toward her, trying to grab the hem of her skirt. She abruptly stepped back. Those nearby sensed something was wrong and asked uncertainly, "Your Highness?"
Wei Qingping steadied herself. Calmly, she turned and said, "Set up checkpoints immediately and seal off the village. From today onward, no one who enters this village may leave!"
"Your Highness?!"
Everyone looked up in shock. Wei Qingping remained composed. "Don't be afraid. I won't leave. I'll stay here with you. I'll treat you until you recover—or until I die."
Her words stunned the crowd. Raising her voice, she continued, "Quickly! Seal the village and establish checkpoints for external contact. Those manning the checkpoints must not interact with outsiders—we still don't know how the disease spreads. I'll write down the needed medicines now. Have outsiders transport them here as soon as possible..."
Her steady tone gradually calmed the people. Yet, where no one could see, her hands trembled uncontrollably.
The outbreak had already spiraled beyond control. But as a healer, she had no choice.
She was everyone's pillar now. She had to endure. She had to stand firm.
Returning to the Medical Hermitage, she swiftly began drafting prescriptions and isolation protocols. She instructed her apprentices to identify the infected and those who might still be uninfected, then taught the latter how to avoid contamination.After the lockdown began, the soldiers who had not entered initially became their only means of communication. Wei Qingping forbade direct contact, so a gate was built at the sentry post where items could be exchanged by leaving them at the entrance. Everything sent out had to be thoroughly disinfected with medication, and those receiving the items had to wear gloves when handling them.
Wei Qingping listed the necessary medicines, wrote down the isolation protocols, and detailed her experiences in Qing Province. She then clearly outlined the situation and instructed Wei Yun to investigate the entire Bai Province for the cause of the infection, issuing a statewide lockdown order.
After completing all this, she watched as the messenger prepared to leave. Hesitating for a moment, she finally said, "Also, tell General Qin Shiyue."
The messenger paused. Wei Qingping's voice trembled slightly as she continued, "Everyone has their own responsibilities. I am a healer, and he is a soldier. He must fulfill his duties and not come looking for me. If he dares to come, I will lose all respect for him in this lifetime."
The messenger pressed his lips together and nodded. "Understood."
Once Wei Qingping's letter was sent out, Tao Quan received it and immediately issued orders. After reports of the epidemic came in from various cities in Bai Province, Tao Quan suddenly realized that the outbreak was spreading along the river!
The memory of Zhao Yue's reckless battle to seize Su Bai flashed through his mind, and the conversation he had with Wei Yun before the latter's departure echoed in his thoughts.
"Zhao Yue's enemies now are you, Song Shilan, and Chu Linyang—three factions..."
If the Northern Di were restraining the Wei family and Chen State was keeping the Chu family occupied, what about Song Shilan?!
Would Zhao Yue really ignore Song Shilan?!
The longest stretch of Jiang Bai's river wasn't in Bai Province—it was in Qiong Province and Hua Province!
Tao Quan abruptly stood up and shouted, "Someone! Send a message to Prince Song at once!"
Tao Quan's letter was sent via carrier pigeon, with over a dozen pigeons dispatched simultaneously to ensure it reached Song Shilan.
At that time, Song Shilan was inspecting Taiping City, where many people had fallen ill with similar symptoms. Since most of the affected had consumed river water, officials suspected poisoning upstream. To reassure the public, Song Shilan had come to investigate.
However, upon arriving in Taiping City, Song Shilan discovered the situation was a hundred times worse than reported. The county magistrate had already fled, leaving Song Shilan no choice but to personally oversee matters until a new magistrate could be appointed.
Known for his hands-on approach, Song Shilan inspected the situation daily, occasionally assisting officials, earning him high regard among the people.
Qiong Province and Hua Province, being coastal and far from the inland, were rich in resources and rarely touched by war. The people were simple and lived prosperous lives. Even during times of heavy military presence, the locals could still manage a smile for Song Shilan despite their suffering.
Song Shilan cherished this feeling. Every day, he wrote letters to Jiang Chun, describing the beauty of Qiong Province and asking when he could bring her there to marry her.
Jiang Chun rarely replied, but Song Shilan enjoyed writing nonetheless, never tiring of it.
On that day, bathed in spring sunlight, Song Shilan walked through the crowds with his aide, inspecting the officials and citizens. Seeing Song Shilan's cheerful expression, the aide couldn't help but ask, "Did you write to the Second Madam again yesterday?"
"How did you know? Ahem..."
Song Shilan coughed twice, but his smile remained undimmed. "This time, she will definitely reply."
"Your Highness, you've been coughing frequently lately.""Probably caught a cold," Song Shilan said absentmindedly. His aide thought for a moment before asking, "What did Your Highness write to her?"
"I told her," Song Shilan chuckled, "I told Wei Lingchun that I am his real father."
The aide was stunned, stammering, "This... this... the Second Madam Wei..."
"Your Highness! Your Highness!"
A guard rushed in urgently, holding a letter. "News from Bailing!"
"So soon?"
Song Shilan was taken aback, but he immediately realized the timing was wrong—this couldn't possibly be Jiang Chun's reply. His expression darkened as he swiftly took the letter from the guard.
Upon opening it, his face changed drastically.
The letter contained Tao Quan's report on the epidemic, along with methods for quarantine and inspection.
He stared blankly at the paper as his aide asked, "Your Highness?"
"Pass down my orders..." Song Shilan's voice grew solemn as he turned to those behind him. "Anyone exhibiting coughing, fever, diarrhea, bloodshot eyes, or skin lesions must remain in the city. Those with open wounds on their arms are forbidden from leaving. Everyone else must evacuate immediately and relocate to the Song Family Village in the suburbs. They can only resume normal activities after a month of observation without symptoms. All measures in the city will follow the instructions on this paper."
Everyone was stunned, but the assigned officer took the paper from Song Shilan and promptly replied, "Understood," before turning to arrange everything.
"Your Highness?!"
After the others left, the aide hesitantly spoke up. Song Shilan suppressed his emotions, lowered his gaze, and handed a copy of the letter to the aide. "Deliver this to the Fourth Young Master, Song Shirong. Tell him to fully cooperate with Chu Linyang and Wei Yun's plans from now on. We must spare no effort to overthrow Zhao Yue. The Song Family has chosen this path—there's no turning back now."
"Your Highness, what exactly is happening...?"
"It's a plague."
The aide froze at these words. Song Shilan looked up and said, "Starting today, evacuate the unharmed citizens according to household registries. If you're unaffected, leave as soon as possible."
"Then we should summon physicians—"
He stared intently at the aide. "There is no cure for this plague."
The aide paused, then nodded. "Understood. Then, Your Highness, I will escort you out."
Hearing this, Song Shilan fell silent. After a moment, he slowly smiled.
"I can't leave."
"Your Highness?"
The aide looked up, his face filled with shock. Song Shilan raised his hand and rolled up his sleeve.
On his arm was a small wound, like a scrape, already showing signs of festering.
The aide stared dumbfounded, but Song Shilan's expression remained as if nothing had happened. He lowered his sleeve and said calmly, "After you leave, have Song Shirong take charge. Maintain close communication with Tao Quan immediately. Wei Qingping is with them—she will undoubtedly spare no effort to find a way to curb the epidemic. We'll follow Bai Province's lead. If other places experience outbreaks like Taiping City, handle them the same way. Better to mistakenly quarantine a hundred than let one slip through."
"Your Highness..." The aide bowed his head, his voice trembling. "If you don't speak of it, no one will know..."
"I will know." Song Shilan's voice was steady. He clasped his hands in his sleeves and walked toward the city gates. "My life is no more precious than anyone else's. I was born the son of a singing girl, a bastard. To have come this far is already enough.""Your Highness!" The adjutant raised his voice, "What about the Second Madam?!"
"You go out," the adjutant urged anxiously, "I'll escort you out. I'll take care of you alone. If I get infected, I'll die with you. We absolutely won't infect anyone else. I'll take you to find Wei Qingping—she must have a way..."
"If she had a way, I could live long enough to see her."
Song Shilan's expression remained calm. "If she doesn't, then even if I go out, there's no hope."
"Besides," Song Shilan looked up at the adjutant, "the moment I step outside, I become a walking source of infection. Do you know how this plague spreads? You don't. If even my breath can infect others, then leaving would mean harming innocent people."
"Brother," Song Shilan smiled, "a man must learn contentment in life..."
"You haven't married the Second Madam yet, you don't have an heir," the adjutant pleaded desperately, "you can't give up..."
"I'm not giving up."
Song Shilan turned his gaze toward the city gates, where crowds were rapidly gathering. Soldiers struggled to maintain order, shouting, "One at a time! One at a time!"
Song Shilan watched them quietly before speaking softly, "I never married her, and she never grew to love me enough. I have no children, no close family to mourn me. In a way, this is fitting."
"I came into this world unburdened, and I'll leave it the same. If you truly wish to save me," Song Shilan's steady eyes met the adjutant's, "then go find Wei Qingping and other physicians—do everything you can to save everyone. If they are saved, so am I."
The adjutant stared at Song Shilan in stunned silence. Song Shilan raised his hand as if to pat his shoulder but hesitated, then let it drop. Turning away, he walked toward the chaotic crowd.
The lockdown had plunged the people into panic. The growing unrest hinted at their dawning realization as voices roared: "Why won't you let us out?!"
"Are you trying to trap us here to die? Have you abandoned us?!"
"You want us dead! You want us dead!"
Amid the uproar, Song Shilan's voice suddenly thundered above the chaos: "Everyone!"
All eyes turned to him as he leaped onto a nearby drum platform. "My fellow citizens," he declared, "I am Song Shilan."
"Prince Song?"
"Prince Song is here too!"
"Your Highness, you've come! Will you stand for us?"
"Listen well," Song Shilan spoke calmly. "This illness is indeed a plague—one that strikes with terrible speed. Bai Province and Qiong Province are exhausting every means to treat it. We would never abandon our people. The city is sealed only to prevent further spread. But know this: after the gates close, the court will not forsake you. Food, medicine, and physicians will continue to enter."
"Fine words!" a villager shouted. "Once you nobles flee and the gates shut, what becomes of us? 'Prevent further spread'—yet when the wealthy fall ill, don't they escape? Only us lowborn are left to suffer!"
The crowd erupted in fury. Song Shilan listened silently, then slowly rolled up his sleeve.
The festering wounds on his arm lay bare before them. His voice never wavered: "I'm not leaving."Everyone was stunned for a moment. Song Shilan's voice remained steady: "I have contracted the plague and will stay here with all of you. As long as I can still stand, I will do everything in my power to care for those in need. With me here as guarantee, I swear the Song Family will never abandon a single citizen who shouldn't be abandoned."
"Like all of you, I want to live too. I have someone I love, and I wish to marry her. I've already sent the betrothal gifts and prepared her wedding dress, just waiting for her consent." Song Shilan smiled, and the crowd stared at him in silence. Everyone could see the tenderness in his eyes. "I will survive this, and so will all of you. I implore you—please line up properly. Let your family, friends, and all those who should leave do so. Those who remain, stay with me in Taiping City. We will wait for the physicians and the medicine. When we survive and leave this city, come with me to Bailing to propose."
"I don't believe staying here means death, and neither should you."
No one spoke. Song Shilan stood on the raised platform and called to his adjutant, "Li Yuan."
Li Yuan didn't move. Song Shilan raised his voice, "Li Yuan!"
"Your subordinate is here!" Li Yuan shouted, his eyes red.
Song Shilan spoke gently, "Come forward."
Li Yuan trembled as he approached. Song Shilan lifted his sleeve—his arm was clean, without a single wound. Song Shilan met his tear-filled gaze and smiled. "What are you crying for? Be a man."
"Go."
Song Shilan released him and said calmly, "Wait outside. Deliver the message, observe for a month, and then report to the Fourth Young Master. Don't wander around."
With Song Shilan and Li Yuan setting the example, the crowd finally organized themselves. Household by household, they filed out according to the registry.
Many who were already infected did not step forward, and those who tried to slip through were pushed back.
A day passed like this, and finally, no one remained in line.
The gates of Taiping City slowly closed. Song Shilan gazed at the setting sun beyond the walls, unsure of what he felt—only that the sun seemed unusually red, like blood, weighing heavily on his heart and deepening the despair.
He coughed lightly and returned to the government office with the guards who had stayed behind.
Inside, there was an unsent letter. When he glanced at it, he couldn't help but smile.
Meanwhile, in Bailing, Jiang Chun grew uneasy after days without a letter from Song Shilan.
But she couldn't show it. Casually, she approached Wei Lingchun to inquire, "Is everything all right in Qiongzhou now?"
Wei Lingchun, who now worked under Tao Quan, hesitated. "It's... it's fine."
Jiang Chun sensed something was wrong. Frowning, she straightened. "Has something happened?"
"No," Wei Lingchun forced a laugh. "Everything's fine. It's all going smoothly."
Jiang Chun said nothing. A moment later, she summoned Qian Yong. He was straightforward, and Jiang Chun sighed. "General Qian... about Lord Song's situation... you know, don't you?"
"Huh?" Qian Yong looked startled. "How did you find out? Who told you?!"
"Don't hide it from me," Jiang Chun said sorrowfully. "I already have a rough idea. I just want to know—does he need the Young Lord's help now?"
"Don't be too upset," Qian Yong sighed. "Plagues are acts of heaven. The Lady is already trying to find a cure. Lord Song is blessed—"
"Plague?!" Jiang Chun raised her voice. "You're saying Song Shilan has the plague?""Yes," Qian Yong was somewhat bewildered. "Didn't you tell me about him locking himself in Taiping City?"
Jiang Chun didn't respond. Gripping the armrest, she asked hoarsely, "You said... he locked himself in Taiping City?"
"Yeah, the disaster there is really bad now," Qian Yong said bluntly. "Prince Song reportedly fell ill, so he just shut the city gates, staying inside with the people, waiting to die together. They say they're waiting for the princess to bring a cure, but given the situation now, what cure could there be? Just dragging it out day by day..."
As Qian Yong rambled on, Jiang Chun remained silent. Seeing her utterly distraught, he finally said after a long pause, "Um... Second Madam, maybe... I should go now?"
Jiang Chun gave a faint acknowledgment. Qian Yong hesitated, then withdrew.
She sat in the room, unmoving, from afternoon until night, sitting there in complete silence.
When Wei Lingchun returned and heard Jiang Chun had been sitting in the room all day, he hesitated before opening the door.
Moonlight spilled inside, and by its glow, he saw his mother seated in a chair. Dressed in white, she supported her forehead with one hand, frozen in that pose like a statue, unmoving for what seemed an eternity.
Neither spoke. After a long while, Wei Lingchun said softly, "Don't be sad. Uncle Song is a blessed man. He'll be fine."
Jiang Chun remained silent. As Wei Lingchun moved to light a lamp, she suddenly spoke: "Don't."
He stopped, his back to her in the darkness, unsure what to say. For all his precociousness, he was still just a child. Finally, he murmured, "Mother, you didn't really like Uncle Song that much anyway. If he's gone, there'll be others. It's alright."
"Didn't like him..."
Jiang Chun let out a low, broken laugh at this. Raising her head in the moonlight, her face was streaked with tears—how long had she been crying? She looked at Wei Lingchun and countered, "Didn't like him?"
"Does everyone think I didn't like him? Did even he think I hated him, that I couldn't stand him?!"
Standing abruptly, she stepped closer to Wei Lingchun. "Did even he believe I despised him, that I felt nothing for him?!"
"That's right," she rasped, though it was unclear who she was addressing. "I did hate him. I hated that someone so good could appear, telling me he loved me, offering me such a beautiful, joyful future. I hated him—and I hated myself even more. What am I?! A nobody from a minor family, a concubine's daughter. Your father's affection was already more than enough. I should have spent my life remembering him, mourning him. What right did I have, what face could I show, to develop feelings for someone else?!"
"This life of mine," she choked out, staring at Wei Lingchun, "this life should have been spent tending your father's memorial tablet, guarding the Wei family, raising you until you grew up, married, had children. A hundred years from now, I'd meet your father in the afterlife. That's all my life was supposed to be. So why did he have to appear? And what right did I have?! If I married him, how could I ever face your father again? How could I face you?! And why should someone as wonderful as him stoop so low as to marry a woman like me?!""I hate him, I hate myself, I hate that I can't let go, can't bear to, can't sever, can't leave. I hate that even at this moment..." She paused, staring at Wei Lingchun, and slowly said, "Even at this moment, I don't dare... to go find him."
Wei Lingchun didn't speak. He quietly watched Jiang Chun for a long time before finally reaching out and embracing her.
The young boy's embrace was warm. His arms were still slender, yet they held a firm strength, the kind of lean muscle unique to those trained in martial arts. Jiang Chun froze slightly, hearing Wei Lingchun say slowly, "Mother, I want you to be happy."
Jiang Chun stood dumbly, bent slightly as Wei Lingchun held her in his arms. "Father was the same as me—we both wanted you to be happy. When someone dies, they're gone. Even if there's a next life, it has nothing to do with this one. After you die, you don’t need to see Father, because no one can see anyone then. Don’t pin your life on something as vague as the afterlife."
"Mother," he said gently, "I've grown up. You can go do whatever makes you happy, just like you did for me. I know you didn’t want me to go to the battlefield, but you still supported me. I’ll do the same for you."
As he spoke, he tightened his arms, tears welling in his eyes. "I wish Mother could always stay by my side. I wish Mother could remain the Second Lady of the Wei family forever. But more than wanting you to be a perfect mother, I want you to be a happy one."
Wei Lingchun closed his eyes. "I’m tired of you binding yourself in the name of loving me."
Jiang Chun didn’t speak. Held in her child’s embrace, listening to his innocent yet blunt words, she felt a flood of emotions overwhelming her. Leaning against him, she burst into loud sobs.
"I want to go find him..."
"Then go find him."
"I want to see him, I want to stay with him..."
"Then stay with him!"
"I love him..." Jiang Chun cried until her voice was hoarse. "I truly love him!"
Wei Lingchun steadied her, gritting his teeth. "Then go love him!"
The young always possess a courage and determination beyond that of adults.
If you want to find someone, then go find them. If you want to see someone, then go see them. If you want to stay with someone, then stay with them. If you want to love someone, then go love them.
That burning passion slowly spread from Wei Lingchun to Jiang Chun.
She cried until she was utterly spent. By dawn, she managed to speak with difficulty, "Lingchun, I’m not a good mother."
"No," Wei Lingchun said calmly. "I’m lucky to be your son. You’re brave—braver than many mothers I’ve seen."
Jiang Chun didn’t respond. After a moment, she straightened up.
She called for her maids to prepare for her, then went to find Tao Quan. With the epidemic raging, a group of physicians in Bailing were dedicated to studying it. After carefully learning everything about the outbreak, Jiang Chun gathered the necessary medicines, tools, and the latest prescriptions the physicians had developed. Then, armed, she left Bailing.
Before she departed the city, Wei Lingchun came to see her off. Jiang Chun sat on her horse, looking down at the boy who was now nearly as tall as she was. She bent down to smooth his hair and said gently, "Mother is going to find the person she loves. From now on, you’ll have to take care of yourself. Can you do that?"
"I can."
Wei Lingchun smiled. "Don’t worry. When Uncle Qi was my age, he was already making a name for himself."Jiang Chun smiled, her gaze deeply fixed on him. After a long while, she slowly said, "I will be the best Jiang Chun I can be. Wei Lingchun, I also hope you can be the best Wei Lingchun."
"In this lifetime," she raised her hand and placed it over her heart, speaking gently, "your mother has always wished for you to live freely and boldly, without defying the natural order or betraying your true heart."
"Mother, don't worry."
Wei Lingchun said earnestly, "I will."
"Lingchun," Jiang Chun took a deep breath, "Giving birth to you was truly the best decision I ever made in this life. Though I initially thought you were particularly ugly."
Wei Lingchun was stunned for a moment before exclaiming, "Mother!"
Jiang Chun laughed heartily but didn’t respond further. She whipped her horse and rode out of Bailing.
She traveled day and night, finally arriving at the gates of Taiping City as the sun was setting. At that time, Song Shilan ascended the city walls. Nowadays, their communication with the outside world relied on a basket lowered by rope from the battlements, where outsiders would place necessary supplies inside.
Song Shilan would climb the city walls daily to observe the situation outside. That day, he saw a young woman in green robes, her hair tied up, driving a carriage swiftly down the official road.
"Qing Jiu," Song Shilan said to the guard with a smile, "Has my illness worsened again? Look at that girl over there." He raised his hand, pointing at Jiang Chun in the distance, and said gently, "Doesn’t she resemble my A Chun?"
Qing Jiu remained silent, following his gaze into the distance as the girl galloped closer. Song Shilan coughed lightly and said, "But it couldn’t be her. A Chun’s temperament is always so restrained—she would never do something like this. Even if she were to come, she should be escorted by the Guardian Army, presenting a formal visiting card..."
Before he could finish, he heard a woman’s voice calling out loudly, "Song Shilan!"
Song Shilan froze slightly. The woman halted her carriage, dismounted, and looked up at him, saying earnestly, "Song Shilan, open the gates!"
This shout finally snapped Song Shilan out of his daze. His eyes widened as he stared blankly at the woman below the city walls.
She was just as she had always been—calm, composed, with a reassuring steadiness in her demeanor.
Standing alone with her carriage beneath the city walls, she gazed quietly at him.
In that moment, his heart pounded like thunder.
In truth, indifference was a lie. Lack of attachment was a lie. All the composure and calmness while waiting for death alone in this city were lies.
He was someone born from the mire—where did he get such lofty ideals of caring for the world? He hadn’t won her over yet, hadn’t gained so much. He, too, would toss and turn at night, mocking the unfairness of fate.
But when this woman appeared at the city walls, right before his eyes, he finally felt—
It was worth it.
Everything he had done in this lifetime, every step he had taken in this world—it was all worth it.
Author’s Note: Originally planned to post tomorrow, but my editor urged me to update today...
So here’s the first part for now >,<
The climax of the ending will feature the fates of all characters in an ensemble-style conclusion. The segment itself is quite long, with Wei Yun, Chu Yu, and Gu Chusheng’s parts coming in the latter half.
That said, Song Shilan is also quite dashing, isn’t he?
Also, my intelligence is limited, so there are many fictional settings here—things like how grain is controlled or how medicine is state-regulated—just go with it. Don’t scrutinize or overthink it.
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