Mo Li

The city of Ruyang was filled with jubilant celebrations, and for good reason—Princess Ding, who had been missing for over half a year, had returned safely. Not only had Princess Ding returned unharmed, but the Little Prince, now over seven months along, remained safely nestled in her womb. The entire city of Ruyang was as lively as if celebrating a grand festival. Everyone knew that the princess, despite being a woman, had led an army of two hundred thousand against Prince Zhennan of Xiling, nearly annihilating his forces. Now that both the princess and the Little Prince had returned safely, was it not a sign of heaven’s favor upon His Highness Prince Ding?

In these turbulent times, common folk rarely had the leisure to concern themselves with rituals, classics, or the teachings of sages. Whoever granted them peace and stability earned their love and support. Amidst the widespread chaos engulfing the Great Chu, the northwest—the first region to suffer the ravages of war—had ironically become a haven of tranquility, largely due to the efforts of the Princess of the State. Thus, the return of Princess Ding naturally filled the people with joy and renewed their confidence in the future of the northwest.

Amidst the jubilant revelry, however, the prefect’s residence in the city remained serene. Though everyone wore expressions of happiness, this was not yet the time for celebration.

In the bedroom, Ye Li sat by the bed, gazing at the pale-faced man lying unconscious before her, her heart aching with sorrow. Shen Yang carefully removed the silver needles from Mo Xiuyao’s body and stepped aside to wash his hands. Ye Li asked anxiously, “Shen, how is Xiu Yao?” That afternoon had given her quite a fright. Mo Xiuyao, who had seemed perfectly fine, had suddenly collapsed, even showing signs of bleeding from all seven orifices. Shen Yang reassured her, “Your Highness need not worry. His Highness is stable for now.”

“It’s all my fault—I forgot what day it was today. How could His Highness…” Having spent months in the deep mountains and several more days in the Imperial Tomb, where there was neither sun nor moon, Ye Li had lost track of time. She hadn’t realized today was the night of the full moon. Shen Yang explained, “His Highness used the Meridian-Sealing Technique to block the pain. However, the agony that comes with each full moon cannot be fully suppressed. By forcing it, His Highness inevitably suffered internal injuries. Fortunately, we discovered it early, so there’s no serious harm.” Ye Li frowned. “I’ve seen Xiu Yao during his episodes before, but this time was different. Shen, if there’s something wrong with Xiu Yao, please tell me the truth.” Shen Yang sat down across from her and said, “Your Highness, please remain calm. Over the past few months, His Highness has indeed appeared much calmer. It’s not because the poison’s effects have weakened, but rather because his endurance has reached new heights. Or perhaps… his sensitivity to pain has dulled somewhat. Thankfully, as far as I can see, there are no other issues at present. This can be considered a good thing. Now that Your Highness has returned safely, I can focus entirely on researching the poison affecting His Highness.”The past few months had been difficult for many, including Shen Yang. He could no longer shut himself away in quiet solitude to study medicine as he used to, nor could he travel far to seek rare herbs or visit renowned physicians. He had to remain vigilant, keeping a constant watch over Mo Xiuyao to prevent any mishaps. But seeing Mo Xiuyao in such a state, even after countless adjustments to his diet and tonics, Shen Yang was certain that even if the poison were cured, the prince wouldn’t live past three years—he was slowly wearing himself to death. Now that the princess consort had returned, things would be much easier with her overseeing the prince’s care.

Ye Li nodded, her gaze falling on the man’s peaceful sleeping face on the bed. A flicker of guilt and heartache passed through her eyes. “Thank you, Shen. You may rest now. I’ll watch over His Highness.”

Shen Yang rose and cupped his hands in salute. “Your Highness, your own health is also of concern. You should rest as well. If anything arises, simply summon me.”

After seeing Shen Yang out and dismissing the attendants, Ye Li sat quietly by the bedside, studying Mo Xiuyao’s pale, handsome face. Her fingers lightly traced the long scar on his left cheek as she sighed softly. “Xiu Yao…”

At dawn, Ye Li awoke to find herself nestled in a warm embrace. Startled, she glanced toward the couch nearby. Not wanting to disturb Mo Xiuyao the previous night, she had slept on a soft divan in the room. Yet now, upon opening her eyes, she found herself in his arms. The moment she stirred, Mo Xiuyao’s eyes fluttered open. He said nothing, simply gazing at her in silence. Ye Li offered a faint smile. “Feeling better?”

Mo Xiuyao’s eyes gleamed as he nuzzled her shoulder, pulling her closer. “It hurts. Need more sleep.” Ye Li gently brushed the stray strands from his face, her heart aching. How could he possibly sleep when his entire body was in pain? Yet she didn’t contradict him, nodding instead. “Alright, sleep a little longer.”

“A Li, sleep with me,” Mo Xiuyao murmured, eyes closed. Ye Li replied softly, “Sleep.”

But their wish for a lazy morning in bed was soon interrupted. Before long, the courtyard outside grew noisy, and Ye Li faintly heard Han Mingxi’s voice among others. They had returned late the previous night, and with Mo Xiuyao unconscious, only Shen Yang had been summoned for treatment. No one else had been allowed in, so it was no surprise Han Mingxi and the others were making an early commotion.

Sighing, Ye Li sat up—only for Mo Xiuyao to abruptly rise beside her, his expression dark and intimidating. Without calling for the maids, they took their time dressing before stepping outside, where the clamor had escalated. The shadow guards, however, stood firm at the gate, barring entry no matter how insistent the outsiders were.

Spotting Han Mingxi’s furious expression at the courtyard entrance, Ye Li smiled faintly. “Mingxi, I heard your voice first thing in the morning. What’s all the fuss about?”Startled by Ye Li's voice, Han Mingxi turned abruptly and saw the green-robed woman standing at the door with a gentle smile. His face instantly lit up with joy. "Jun Wei!" Without a second thought, he dashed toward her. However, despite Han Mingxi's renowned Light Body Skill, someone was faster. Mo Xiuyao, standing beside Ye Li, blocked his path without hesitation, shielding her behind him and delivering a ruthless palm strike toward the approaching Han Mingxi.

Han Mingxi barely managed to flip mid-air and retreat several steps to evade the attack, his heart pounding. "Mo Xiuyao, you lunatic! What are you doing?!"

The onlookers couldn’t help but sweat for Han Mingxi, as they clearly saw the terrifying expression on the man’s face. Without a word, Mo Xiuyao lunged forward, striking at Han Mingxi with several more palm strikes. Han Mingxi’s martial skills were mediocre at best, leaving him no choice but to dodge frantically. Fortunately, his Light Body Skill lived up to its reputation as one of the best in the martial world—otherwise, given Mo Xiuyao’s strength and ferocity, the consequences would have been dire.

"Xiu Yao, what are you doing?" Ye Li sighed helplessly. Was this some kind of morning temper? She had never seen Mo Xiuyao act so aggressively without warning before.

Mo Xiuyao paused, glancing coldly at Han Mingxi, who was now perched on a tree branch, too afraid to come down. "Han Mingxi," he said icily, "I warned you—watch your life."

Han Mingxi’s heart skipped a beat. While others couldn’t see from behind Mo Xiuyao, he had clearly caught the unmistakable killing intent in the man’s eyes. Mo Xiuyao hadn’t been venting frustration—he had genuinely intended to kill him.

"Enough." Ye Li stepped forward, taking Mo Xiuyao’s hand and holding it firmly. As a former sniper in her past life, she was acutely sensitive to atmosphere and had immediately detected the murderous intent in his words. She soothingly patted the back of his hand, feeling him relax slightly before looking up at Han Mingxi with a smile. "Mingxi, it’s been a while. What’s all this commotion so early in the morning?"

Han Mingxi rubbed his head sheepishly. "My apologies. We heard yesterday that the Princess Consort had returned, but it was already late..."

Ye Li nodded apologetically. "It was our fault for being delayed and keeping everyone waiting."

Only then did the gathered crowd snap out of their daze, bowing in unison. "We greet the Prince and Princess Consort!"Although the imperial court had issued an edict stripping Mo Xiuyao of his title, in Ruyang City—and indeed throughout the entire northwest—people seemed to have collectively ignored that decree. They continued to address Mo Xiuyao as "Prince" and Ye Li as "Princess Consort" as before. Mo Xiuyao had no objections to this. After all, discarding the title of "Prince" would only mean the hassle of coming up with another form of address, and he was already accustomed to being called "Prince." Moreover, it was also a way of telling Mo Jingqi that Mo Xiuyao didn’t need anyone’s conferment to be a prince.

Mo Xiuyao’s expression darkened as he glared at his subordinates, making their hearts pound nervously. Ever since the incident involving the Princess Consort, the prince’s temper had become particularly unpredictable. Though he remained as astute as ever in major matters, his disposition was no longer as easygoing as before. Seeing his expression, the group quickly realized the problem. The prince and princess consort had been separated for a long time and naturally wished for some private time together. Their early morning intrusion had undoubtedly disrupted that, so it was no wonder the prince was displeased. Half of them shot resentful glances at Han Mingxi, who had just descended from a tree, while the other half cast pleading looks at Ye Li, who stood beside Mo Xiuyao.

Ye Li smiled faintly and discreetly tugged at Mo Xiuyao’s hand. Mo Xiuyao let out a light hum and said, "Enough. Rise."

"Thank you, Prince and Princess Consort." The group sighed in relief and hurriedly stood up.

After paying their respects, those without urgent matters quickly excused themselves. None of them were fools—if the prince didn’t want to see them now, they knew better than to linger. Mo Xiuyao frowned at those who remained and asked coldly, "What do you want?"

Feng Zhiyao, at the head of the group, rubbed his nose helplessly—they really did have business to discuss. Stepping forward, he said, "Your Highness, news of the Princess Consort’s safe return has already spread. The imperial court will likely respond soon, so we must prepare our countermeasures. Additionally, local officials report that the citizens are planning a lantern festival to celebrate the Princess Consort’s safe return and to pray for blessings for her and the Little Prince. Would Your Highnesses be willing to attend?"

At the mention of the court, Mo Xiuyao’s expression darkened further. He scoffed and said, "Mo Jingqi won’t act so quickly. Ignore him for now. If he sends anyone, drive them out immediately!"

Feng Zhiyao shrugged helplessly and said nothing more. Qin Feng stepped forward and reported, "Your Highnesses, what should be done with the two people we brought back yesterday?"

At the mention of Tan Jizhi, Ye Li quickly asked, "Did you find the whereabouts of Doctor Lin, as I instructed yesterday?"

Qin Feng nodded. "Doctor Lin was injured and taken away by Tan Jizhi’s men along a different route, likely intending to bring him to the capital. He arrived in Ruyang City this morning. Does the Princess Consort wish to see him now?"

Ye Li thought for a moment and shook her head. "Have someone take good care of him. He’s had a difficult journey—let him rest first. We can speak later."

Qin Feng nodded in agreement, assuring her that arrangements would be made. Glancing at Mo Xiuyao, he added, "Tan Jizhi has requested an audience with Your Highnesses."

Ye Li naturally remembered why they had spared Tan Jizhi’s life yesterday. She looked up at Mo Xiuyao, clearly seeing the displeasure on his face, and gave him a reassuring smile before turning back to Qin Feng. "Later, the prince and I will go see him together."Mo Xiuyao held Ye Li with one arm, his gaze sweeping lightly over the faces of those present. "Finished speaking?"

Zhuo Jing and Leng Haoyu, who had been about to speak, wisely swallowed their words. The way the prince was looking at them was undoubtedly a threat. Since it wasn’t an urgent matter anyway, and the prince clearly didn’t want to hear it, they might as well keep quiet. Their early morning visit had only been to confirm that the princess had indeed returned safely. The past few months had been unbearable—they never wanted to face that version of the prince again.

Watching as everyone took their leave, Ye Li sighed softly. Serves you right for being single. She wasn’t unaware of Mo Xiuyao’s thoughts, but given their positions, how could they truly abandon everything without a care? Taking his hand, she led him back toward the courtyard, smiling gently. "Let’s go back for breakfast and rest a little. In the afternoon, will you play the qin for me?" The gloom in Mo Xiuyao’s eyes gradually dissipated, replaced by warmth and affection as he gazed at her. "Alright."

Holding onto his arm, Ye Li smiled faintly. There would be many challenges ahead, but surely it wouldn’t hurt to indulge a little now that she had just returned?

In the afternoon, a faint coolness settled beneath the large tree in the governor’s residence’s backyard. Ye Li reclined leisurely on a daybed, flipping through a book, while Mo Xiuyao sat lazily beside her, resting his head against her shoulder with his eyes closed. If not for her pregnancy, he likely would have laid his head in her lap to sleep. Unbothered, Ye Li held the book in one hand while the other rested on his back, occasionally giving him a light pat.

Feng Zhiyao entered and was met with this serene and heartwarming scene. Seeing Mo Xiuyao’s peaceful, contented expression in sleep, he suddenly regretted intruding on their tranquility. But the matter at hand left him no choice. Noticing his hesitation at the doorway, Ye Li smiled faintly and nodded to him. "Feng San, come over and speak." Only then did Feng Zhiyao step forward. Cautiously, he glanced at Mo Xiuyao, who was nestled against Ye Li. Mo Xiuyao opened his eyes to look at him, and just as Feng Zhiyao braced himself for either words or being thrown out, Mo Xiuyao simply closed his eyes again.

"Feng San, what’s the urgent matter?" Watching Feng Zhiyao’s bewildered expression, Ye Li chuckled softly, setting aside the book and picking up a nearby fan to gently wave for Mo Xiuyao. Seemingly pleased, Mo Xiuyao nuzzled slightly against her leg, relaxing even further.

Feng Zhiyao glanced at Mo Xiuyao, whose eyes were closed—whether he was asleep or not was unclear—and lowered his voice. "Your Highness, the court has sent someone."

Ye Li raised an eyebrow. "What a coincidence?" She had only returned yesterday, and Mo Jingqi’s people had arrived today—it was far too coincidental. Feng Zhiyao nodded. "Indeed, it is. However, I’ve investigated, and it shouldn’t be related to Your Highness’s return. The envoy only just passed through Flying Goose Pass yesterday. But it’s likely connected to the person we captured yesterday.""Tan Jizhi?" Ye Li frowned in contemplation. "He's quite bold, isn't he? Trying to get Mo Jingqi to rescue him? Doesn't he fear that if his identity were exposed, Mo Jingqi would be the first one wanting him dead?" Feng Zhiyao chuckled, "He probably never imagined we'd discover his identity. This subordinate speculates that involving Mo Jingqi's people was just his contingency plan. After all, with the Northwest now in our hands, no matter how careful he is, there's still a chance he might fall into our grasp. If we didn't know about his other identity and his connection to the Princess Consort, simply capturing Tan Jizhi might indeed lead us to return him to Mo Jingqi."

Ye Li nodded, "So that means... Mo Jingqi knows what Tan Jizhi came to the Northwest to do. At least it's something beneficial to him."

Feng Zhiyao raised an eyebrow with a smile, "Would Tan Jizhi have told Mo Jingqi about the former dynasty's Gaozu Emperor's Imperial Tomb being in the Northwest? Mo Jingqi wants the treasures from the tomb." It was said that the mysterious Imperial Tomb of the former dynasty's Gaozu Emperor was the most lavishly furnished and enigmatic among all imperial tombs throughout history. Even Feng Zhiyao had never imagined that the long-lost tomb would be located in the Northwest. Ye Li paused her fanning motion, "How would he explain how he knew the secret of the Imperial Tomb?"

"That would be a question for Tan Jizhi," Feng Zhiyao replied with a laugh.

After some thought, Ye Li said, "Tell Tan Jizhi I want the Underworld Flower and the antidote for the poison in His Highness's body. Also..." She frowned slightly, "Tell Qin Feng to interrogate Su Zuidie again. She must still know something important. Tan Jizhi's identity alone wouldn't have made her hold out this long without confessing. Focus on asking... how exactly she and Tan Jizhi met!"

"This subordinate obeys. And... Mo Jingqi's envoy?" Feng Zhiyao inquired.

Ye Li lowered her gaze and said calmly, "Leave them be for now. We'll deal with them when His Highness has time."

Hearing this, Feng Zhiyao's lips twitched as he glanced at Mo Xiuyao, who was sleeping peacefully in his chair. His Highness had plenty of free time! A workaholic prince was bad enough, but one who suddenly became lazy was even worse. Thinking of the towering piles of reports and documents that had accumulated in the study in just two days, Feng Zhiyao felt his vision darken. He could only hope His Highness's current state wouldn't last too long.

"This subordinate takes his leave."