Mo Li

After seeing off Marquis Nan, his heir rushed out from inside, his face already streaked with tears. Zhuo Jing and Lin Han followed behind him, both wearing helpless expressions. If not for their restraint, the heir would have charged out much earlier. Seeing him dart toward the gate, Ye Li stood and asked, "Where are you going?"

The heir halted, as Zhuo Jing and Lin Han had already blocked his path on either side. He turned back and said, "As a son and a husband, how can I stand by while my parents, wife, and children are unjustly imprisoned? Besides, this matter arose because of me." Ye Li walked up to him and said calmly, "What good will rushing out now do? Other than adding one more person to the imperial prison or the execution ground, what else? Or do you plan to plead your case before the Emperor? Do you think His Majesty will give you that chance?" The heir covered his face in anguish. How could he not understand what Ye Li was saying? But right now, other than accompanying his father back to the capital and facing this ordeal with his family, what else could he do?

"Marquis Nan’s journey may not be without hope," Mo Xiuyao remarked with a faint frown as he observed them.

The heir looked at Mo Xiuyao with sudden hope. Mo Xiuyao furrowed his brows and said, "Duke Hua possesses an ironclad pardon bestowed upon the Hua family by Emperor Gaozong. Even a death sentence can be commuted."

"But..." The heir hesitated. He had heard of the ironclad pardon, but in this dynasty, only the Hua family—who had once saved Emperor Gaozong’s life—had ever been granted one. Not even the Ding Royal Palace, which had guarded the nation for generations, possessed such a thing. Yet, would Duke Hua be willing to part with such a priceless artifact? Mo Xiuyao lowered his gaze and said, "Duke Hua will not begrudge an inanimate object. What I fear is..." What he feared was that if Mo Jingqi was determined to take Marquis Nan’s life, even the ironclad pardon might not save him.

Ye Li, evidently sharing Mo Xiuyao’s concern, nodded slightly and turned to Lin Han. "Send word to Mo Hua—do everything possible to ensure Marquis Nan’s safety."

Gradually regaining his composure, the heir bowed deeply to the two of them. "Nan Junfei thanks the Prince and Princess."

Ye Li shook her head. "There’s no need for such formalities, Heir." The heir smiled bitterly. "My humble name is Junfei. From now on, Your Highnesses may simply call me by name. What kind of heir am I now?"

"Reporting to the Prince and Princess, that Lord Zhou left a letter for the Princess before departing," a guard announced from outside, presenting a sealed missive.

Ye Li raised an eyebrow, puzzled, as she took the letter and inspected it for any irregularities. "Lord Zhou?"

The guard nodded. "Before leaving, Lord Zhou privately handed this letter to me and asked me to deliver it to Your Highnesses."

Mo Xiuyao frowned. "A Li, do you know Zhou Yu?" He had noticed the flicker of surprise on Ye Li’s face when Zhou Yu first entered, though it had vanished quickly.

Ye Li shook her head. "He must be one of this year’s imperial scholars. I met him briefly last year." Ye Li’s memory was sharp, if not photographic, and as soon as Zhou Yu spoke, she recalled him—he was the scholar who had sold paintings at the Hall of Prudent Virtue the previous year. She hadn’t expected him not only to pass the imperial examinations but also to become a registrar in the Court of Judicial Review. Though his rank was low, it was a substantive post. With decent ability and luck, he could look forward to a promising future.Opening the letter, Ye Li glanced down and immediately changed her expression. Silently, she passed the letter to Mo Xiuyao, whose already displeased countenance darkened further upon reading it. Slamming the table, he stood up sharply and commanded, "Guards! Recall Marquis Nan immediately. Anyone who dares obstruct—kill without mercy!" Zhuo Jing and Lin Han stiffened, promptly acknowledging the order before swiftly exiting. Nan Junfei, sensing something amiss, paled and hurried after them.

The hall was left with only Mo Xiuyao and Ye Li, the atmosphere growing even heavier. Observing his stormy expression, Ye Li remained silent, quietly sitting beside him. After a long while, Mo Xiuyao seemed to emerge from his fury, weariness and resignation etching his brow. Picking up the letter again, he looked at Ye Li with a bitter smile. "A Li, I'm so tired..." Wordlessly, Ye Li leaned against his shoulder, gently patting it. Mo Xiuyao wrapped an arm around her, drawing warmth from her presence, yet unable to dispel the icy dread rising within. The familiar handwriting in the letter confirmed one thing—had the Ding Royal Palace truly become so despised? But Emperor... do you not fear the Great Chu's downfall with such actions?

The letter wasn’t from Zhou Yu. It bore the handwriting of Old Duke Hua. No one knew under what circumstances the Duke had resorted to entrusting this message to Zhou Yu, a minor official who had only served half a year. Its contents chilled the heart. Mo Jingqi had agreed to cede three northwestern provinces and eleven cities to Western Liang in exchange for their collaboration in annihilating the entire Mo Family Army. Joining this scheme were Mo Jingli, entrenched in the south, and Nanzhao. In other words, Nanzhao’s forces might already be marching through Snowbreak Pass.

"Mo Jingqi has lost his mind," Ye Li murmured. Rallying three nations against the Mo Family Army might work—but had he considered whether Western Liang and Nanzhao would truly withdraw afterward? It was no different from expecting a wolf to spit out devoured prey. Mo Xiuyao’s voice was grim. "He is indeed mad. A Li, it seems you’ve married a husband forever plagued by trouble." Ye Li sighed wryly. "Too late to regret now."

Marquis Nan and his party returned swiftly. Zhuo Jing and Lin Han intercepted them just outside the city gates, bringing them back to the governor’s residence within moments. Wang Jingchuan’s expression was dark. "Your Highness, Prince Ding, what is the meaning of this?" Marquis Nan, though puzzled, understood Mo Xiuyao wouldn’t recall them without cause. Mo Xiuyao’s gaze was icy as he regarded Wang Jingchuan. "Minister Wang, is there something you’ve neglected to inform this prince?"

Wang Jingchuan’s heart turned cold. For some reason, the composed and indifferent Prince Ding now seemed far more terrifying than when he had exuded intimidation earlier. Forcing a smile, he replied, "What does Your Highness imply? This humble official begs your pardon for his dullness."Mo Xiuyao sneered coldly, "What an excellent fool. This prince was unaware that His Majesty would send such a fool to the northwest. Since Lord Wang doesn’t remember, allow me to remind you of a couple of things. For instance… the matter of secretly executing Marquis Nan on the way back to the capital. Surely, Lord Wang hasn’t forgotten that? Hmm?" Wang Jingchuan’s eyes widened in shock. This secret edict had been personally handed to him by the emperor just before he left the capital. Apart from himself, only the emperor knew of it. After receiving the order, he had rushed to the northwest at full speed. Wang Jingchuan couldn’t fathom how the spies of the Ding Royal Palace, no matter how capable, could have obtained such top-secret information.

Upon hearing Mo Xiuyao’s words, Marquis Nan froze momentarily before letting out a bitter laugh. Behind him, Nan Junfei’s eyes burned with fury, and if not for Lin Han restraining him, he would have lunged at Wang Jingchuan to tear him apart.

Wang Jingchuan knew there was no escape now that he had fallen into Prince Ding’s hands. His legs gave way as he knelt on the ground, pleading, "Your Highness, spare me! I was merely following imperial orders. I beg for mercy!"

Mo Xiuyao didn’t even spare him a glance. Ye Li waved her hand dismissively. "Take him away."

Wang Jingchuan was swiftly dragged off by two guards. Only then did Ye Li turn to Zhou Yu, who stood silently to the side, and asked with a faint smile, "Lord Zhou, aren’t you afraid?"

Zhou Yu remained composed, cupping his hands respectfully. "This humble official believes Her Highness is not one to kill indiscriminately." Ye Li smiled faintly and nodded. "We owe you thanks for this matter. However, your actions… may be difficult to explain once you return to the capital."

The news of the emperor’s dealings with Western Liang had been sent by Duke Hua through Zhou Yu, but the information regarding Marquis Nan had been Zhou Yu’s own deduction, added to the message. Wang Jingchuan had assumed his mission was secret, unaware that Zhou Yu, having observed his behavior and demeanor over the past days, had deduced the emperor’s intentions toward Marquis Nan’s family.

After a moment of silence, Zhou Yu replied, "Last year, thanks to Her Highness’s assistance, I was able to gather the silver needed to hire a physician for my ailing mother. Recently, my mother passed away peacefully. I should have requested leave to observe mourning, but instead, I was sent to the northwest with Lord Wang. It seems fate intended for me to repay Her Highness’s kindness. Now that I am alone in this world, I have nothing left to fear."

Mo Xiuyao seemed thoughtful before nodding. "In that case, would Lord Zhou be willing to forsake his official rank and remain in the northwest for the time being?"

Zhou Yu was momentarily stunned. Though unafraid of death, he had no wish to seek it. Prince Ding’s offer was clearly an attempt to protect him. Glancing at Ye Li, who sat nearby with a serene smile, Zhou Yu quickly made his decision. "Thank you, Your Highness, for your generosity."

"And what of Marquis Nan and Lord Wang? Does Your Highness have any plans?" Ye Li asked with a smile.

Mo Xiuyao chuckled. "Since A Li asks, you must already have an idea."

Ye Li smiled gently. "The northwest is in the midst of war, with Western Liang’s forces wreaking havoc everywhere. It wouldn’t be surprising if Lord Wang’s party were unfortunate enough to encounter bandits or Western Liang soldiers and were wiped out. What does Your Highness think?"

Mo Xiuyao praised, "A Li speaks wisely."

Marquis Nan stepped forward and bowed deeply. "Thank you, Your Highness and Her Highness."

Ye Li shook her head. "Please rest assured, Marquis. You need only stay here for now, though it may be a humble arrangement. As for the Nan Marquis residence…"

Marquis Nan smiled bitterly. "We must leave it to fate. I can only hope that once His Majesty hears of my son’s and my deaths, he will show mercy and spare the rest of my family."After relocating Marquis Nan and his son, Lin Han was tasked with setting up the scene of Wang Jingchuan's group's tragic demise. Although Marquis Nan, his son, and Zhou Yu were imposters, Wang Jingchuan was at least the real deal. Lin Han, trained personally by Ye Li in the art of disguise, naturally left no suspicious traces at the scene. However, Marquis Nan and his son would have to live incognito for some time. These matters were now trivial compared to the urgent attention Ye Li and Mo Xiuyao gave to the secret letter delivered by Duke Hua.

Upon receiving the news, even Feng Zhiyao, who was usually nonchalant, couldn't contain his fury. He leapt from his chair, ready to lead troops back to the capital, but Mo Xiuyao stopped him. With a grim expression, Feng Zhiyao said, "Has it come to this? Are you still protecting Mo Jingqi, Your Highness? Still protecting Great Chu? If Mo Jingqi doesn't care about this kingdom, why should we meddle?" Mo Xiuyao's expression was cold as he replied solemnly, "What I protect has never been Mo Jingqi. The Mo Family Army does not defend Great Chu's vast lands for his sake. It is... for the common people living on this land. Feng San, if we break with Mo Jingqi now, forget about Western Liang, Nanzhao, or Northern Rong—Great Chu itself will descend into chaos and war."

Feng Zhiyao sneered, "Then what do we do now? Even if we say nothing, do you think Mo Jingqi will let it go? If we're fighting Western Liang on the front lines, can you guarantee he won't stab us in the back?" Mo Xiuyao fell silent. He couldn't guarantee it. The fact that Mo Jingqi could sign such an agreement with Western Liang meant he was already prepared to betray the Mo Family Army at any moment. But now... A pair of warm, delicate hands gently clasped his. Mo Xiuyao looked up to meet Ye Li's smiling eyes. She turned to Feng Zhiyao, who was in an unprecedented rage, and said, "Keeping this quiet for now is the right move. We have no proof. Over the years, Mo Jingqi has cultivated considerable influence. The Mo Family Army has only seven hundred thousand troops. Feng San, do you remember how many soldiers Great Chu has in total?"

Feng Zhiyao paused, gradually calming down. After a moment of thought, he said, "Over two million. And... Mo Jingqi is the emperor. There might even be hidden forces we don't know about."

Ye Li nodded. "Once the truth comes out, most commoners will still side with the imperial family. Even if the people believe us... it would benefit us in the long run, but in the short term, it does no good. Meanwhile, we could end up facing over two million troops. No matter how valiant the Mo Family Army is, we cannot prevail against such numbers." Feng Zhiyao said bitterly, "So we just endure this?"

Ye Li shook her head. "Not endure. We need time."

After a long silence, Feng Zhiyao said firmly, "I understand. But Your Highness, Your Ladyship, I must return to the capital."

Mo Xiuyao frowned. "What can you do there?"Feng Zhiyao smiled bitterly, "Your Highness, even the shadow guards in the capital haven't received this news yet. We both know exactly where it came from. I'm worried..." Mo Xiuyao said, "Returning would put her in greater danger, Feng San. You've never been one to endure in silence." Feng Zhiyao slumped in defeat, "You're right... If not for Your Highness stopping me all these years, I..." Mo Xiuyao looked at him and raised an eyebrow, "Are you blaming me?" Feng Zhiyao shook his head with a bitter smile, "No, I know... No matter what I do, she would never leave with me. Your Highness... saved both our lives." Mo Xiuyao said, "Stay peacefully in the northwest. This prince guarantees that even if everyone in Chu's capital dies, she will live." Feng Zhiyao suddenly looked up, his gaze sharp as he stared at Mo Xiuyao, "Your Highness has arranged for someone..."

Mo Xiuyao replied, "We practically grew up together. Besides, she has helped the Ding Royal Palace greatly over the years. Would this prince disregard her life?"

A flicker of relief passed through Feng Zhiyao's eyes as he sat back down. "Thank you, Your Highness."

Mo Xiuyao said indifferently, "This prince didn't do it for you."

Feng Zhiyao smiled, "I know. I'm thanking Your Highness for myself."

－－－－－－Author's Note－－－－－－

Everyone hates the emperor, huh? Can't be helped—the emperor is also helpless. He desperately wants to become stronger and leave a glorious legacy, but alas, he's just too brainless. Don't think an emperor can't possibly be that stupid. In fact, when we read history books, we often wonder how such an idiot could have been a ruler... Many of their actions are things even ordinary people would know are wrong. As for Prince Ding's Estate, they aren't blindly loyal fools. In the current situation, as long as they don't openly break with the emperor, he can only scheme in the shadows. But if they do, the Mo Family Army could immediately face attacks from Western Liang, Nanzhao, Chu, and even Northern Rong. The grudges between the Mo Family Army and the surrounding nations run too deep—there's no path forward except life or death.