Mo Li

In an inconspicuous courtyard within Chu Jing,

Leng Haoyu sat in the study, his expression dark and unsettled. Murong Ting walked in carrying a cup of ginseng tea, and upon seeing the dark circles under his eyes, she couldn’t help but frown. “What’s the matter that’s troubling you so much?”

Last night, after receiving a letter, Leng Haoyu had been acting strangely. He had stayed up all night, sitting in the study in a daze. If this had been a few years ago, Murong Ting would have grabbed him and scolded him angrily. But after several years of marriage and living together, her impression of Leng Haoyu was no longer that of the idle, spoiled young master he once was. Moreover, having become both a wife and a mother, her temper had clearly mellowed.

Placing the tea on the table, Murong Ting glanced at the letter on the desk. Leng Haoyu had made no effort to hide it from her—the letter lay open on the surface. It turned out to be a missive sent by Leng Huai from Zijing Pass. The pass was now critically short of provisions, yet the imperial court was embroiled in major conflicts, with Prime Minister Liu’s faction and Prince Li’s faction locked in fierce contention. No one had even glanced at Leng Huai’s urgent request for reinforcements.

Murong Ting frowned and let out a cold laugh. “Does Father-in-law really take us for the national treasury? Has he even considered whether you have the capability? Asking for a hundred thousand dan of provisions right off the bat—where does he expect us to get that?”

If Leng Haoyu truly wanted to gather a hundred thousand dan of provisions, it wouldn’t be impossible. But those were the assets of Prince Ding’s Estate, not something Leng Haoyu could freely use. Moreover, while outsiders knew Leng Haoyu had been doing business for years, producing such a massive amount of grain out of nowhere would inevitably draw unwanted attention from all sides. Prince Ding’s Estate had long severed ties with Great Chu—who would dare supply provisions to Great Chu’s army without Prince Ding’s explicit approval?

Yet Murong Ting understood Leng Haoyu’s dilemma. No matter how much Leng Huai neglected or disregarded him, he was still Leng Haoyu’s biological father. As for Great Chu, Murong Ting felt similarly conflicted. Leng Haoyu belonged to Prince Ding’s Estate, and as his wife, she naturally did as well. But her father, Murong Shen, was a general guarding Great Chu’s borders. How could blood ties so deeply rooted be so easily severed?

Seeing her husband’s haggard and exhausted state, Murong Ting could only sigh helplessly and console him, “We’ve already sent word to the northwest. Surely, Wang Ye and Wang Fei will reply soon. Father-in-law’s situation won’t collapse in just these few days.”

Leng Haoyu forced a faint smile and leaned back in his chair, reaching up to grasp his wife’s hand resting on his shoulder. “Sorry for making you worry,” he said apologetically.

Murong Ting rolled her eyes. “What nonsense are you spouting? We’re husband and wife—who else should I worry about if not you? Instead of sitting here fretting, you should get some proper rest. If Prince Ding sends any orders and things get busy, you won’t last if you’re exhausted.”

Leng Haoyu smiled bitterly. Of course, he understood the logic. But the person currently on the battlefield, facing swords and arrows, possibly starving, was his own father. Though his father had only ever had eyes for his elder brother, deep down, Leng Haoyu still yearned for his father’s acknowledgment. That was why he and Feng San had become such close friends—both were sons who had longed for their fathers’ recognition but never received it. The only difference was that Feng San had been more carefree and resolute about it."Report to Young Master Leng, a secret letter from His Highness has arrived," someone announced softly outside the door. Leng Haoyu stood up in pleasant surprise and said loudly, "Come in quickly!" He didn't know what the prince's decision was, but he hoped to learn the outcome as soon as possible. The man outside the door handed over a sealed letter and then withdrew quietly. Leng Haoyu opened the letter and skimmed through it rapidly, a flicker of joy flashing in his eyes.

Murong Ting could tell from his expression that it must be good news and couldn't help but feel relieved. Although she disliked the Leng family, she didn’t wish for their deaths—at least not Leng Huai’s, as it would surely sadden Leng Haoyu. After finishing the letter, Leng Haoyu looked up. Murong Ting asked, "How is it? What did Prince Ding say?" Leng Haoyu thought for a moment and replied, "Ting'er, you should visit Marquis Muyang Manor later. Like the Leng family, the Marquis’s household has a long history of military achievements. With the border in crisis, they ought to contribute their share."

Murong Ting frowned. "Marquis Muyang has been considering retirement these past few years. Can Yao Ji persuade him?" Leng Haoyu sneered, "If he can’t, there’s still Mu Yang, isn’t there?" Murong Ting nodded. "I understand. It’s been a while since I last saw the Marquis’s daughter-in-law. I’ll have someone send an invitation shortly."

Leng Haoyu smiled and added, "There’s another piece of good news." Murong Ting raised an eyebrow, looking at him with amusement.

Leng Haoyu lowered his voice. "His Highness and Wang Fei will soon arrive in the capital." Startled, Murong Ting exclaimed, "At this time? Prince Ding and Wang Fei..." Leng Haoyu chuckled softly. "With Mr. Hongyu and Qingchen Gongzi overseeing Li Cheng internally and the generals and hundreds of thousands of the Mo Family Army guarding externally, where can’t His Highness and Wang Fei go? They plan to bring the Little Prince to pay respects to the past emperors’ tombs. Besides, isn’t Mo Jingqi on the verge of death? His Highness said he’d like to see him off."

Since Prince Ding and Li'er had decided to come, they must have made arrangements for their safety. Thinking of Ye Li, whom she hadn’t seen in years, Murong Ting’s face brightened with joy.

Yao Ji hadn’t been in Chu Jing for long—just half a year at most. Yet in that short time, she had successfully transformed from a lone woman with a child into the most favored concubine of Marquis Muyang’s heir. While the influence of Prince Ding’s Estate had paved the way for her behind the scenes, it also spoke volumes about Yao Ji’s skill.

Now, the son she had borne was the Marquis’s eldest grandson and Mu Yang’s only son—this alone ensured her unshakable position in the household. Yao Ji was neither ostentatious nor domineering despite her favored status, leaving the Marchioness, who had initially looked down on her background, with no grounds for criticism. This infuriated the Marquis’s daughter-in-law, who gnashed her teeth in frustration, regretting not having eliminated this threat earlier. Unfortunately for her, Mu Yang was fiercely protective, and Yao Ji was no naive pushover. After several confrontations in the months since her arrival, the daughter-in-law had gained no advantage whatsoever.Yao Ji stood lazily by the window, her brightly colored rainbow garments draped over her without a hint of vulgarity, only radiating a dazzling beauty. Though nearly thirty years old, her beauty remained intoxicating. A handsome child of six or seven sat quietly beside her, engrossed in a book, while Yao Ji gazed down at him with tender affection and heartache.

Of course, this was not truly her child. Her own son remained in the northwest, living an ordinary life with loving parents who would ensure he never wanted for anything. He would never know his father was the heir to the Marquisate of Muyang, nor that his mother had once been a dancing girl. And that was for the best. This child before her was no ordinary boy either—he had been raised from infancy in Prince Ding's Estate. The shadow guards who had protected the estate for generations were traditionally selected and trained from such children. Though the shadow guard system was gradually changing, there were still special tasks that required special individuals. This child had accompanied Yao Ji here, and after spending most of the year together, she had genuinely come to cherish him as her own. Unable to raise her own son by her side, she found her heart softening all the more toward other children.

This was the scene that greeted Mu Yang as he entered. A stunningly beautiful woman gazed lovingly at the child absorbed in his book, while the faint glow of the setting sun streamed through the window, lending warmth to the lingering chill of late winter. The sight warmed Mu Yang’s heart, deepening the smile on his face.

"Is Lie studying?" Mu Yang asked as he approached. The boy named Mu Lie closed his book and stood up respectfully. "Father."

Mu Yang affectionately patted Mu Lie’s head. "Your tutor assigns plenty of work as it is. I know you’re diligent, but don’t overexert yourself." A flicker of bashfulness and shyness crossed the boy’s small face, but it was quickly replaced by joy. "I’m not tired, Father. Thank you for your concern."

Mu Yang felt an overwhelming tenderness for his exceedingly well-behaved son. "Good boy." For this son who had been missing for six years, Mu Yang harbored nothing but genuine love. And because of the guilt he carried, he rarely imposed strict demands on him. Turning to Yao Ji, who sat quietly watching them, Mu Yang asked gently, "What have you been doing this afternoon? If you’re bored, you could go out for a stroll." Yao Ji shook her head faintly. "There’s nothing worth seeing. I’d rather stay in the courtyard with Lie. Going out would only invite trouble."

A shadow of guilt passed over Mu Yang’s face. He knew she had not returned willingly. Had it not been for their son, she might never have come back. The memory of Yao Ji appearing before him months ago, haggard and cradling a deathly ill Mu Lie, still sent waves of anguish through his heart. So even now, when Yao Ji remained distant toward him, he felt nothing but contentment. As long as she and their son were by his side, everything was complete.Yao Ji noticed his distracted expression and lowered her gaze slightly, asking, "You seem quite busy these days?" Mu Yang smiled, "Indeed, I've been rather occupied. I haven't been able to join you and Lie'er for meals for the past two days." Rarely did Yao Ji show interest in his affairs, so Mu Yang took it as her concern for him, his smile deepening. Without hesitation, he began sharing the recent events with her. "As you know, the court has been in chaos lately. Our family is loyal to the Emperor, but now..." Now that the Emperor was critically ill, it remained uncertain whether the Liu family or Prince Li would emerge victorious. Choosing sides at this juncture could lead to great rewards if successful, but utter ruin if not. Recently, both Prince Li's faction and the Liu family had been vying to win over Marquis Muyang. Though the Marquis had yet to respond, it was only a matter of time before he could hold out no longer. Few could afford to remain neutral now—not because they didn’t want to, but because they couldn’t.

"A while ago, I heard General Leng was besieged at Zijing Pass. With the court embroiled in such fierce disputes, has the northern enemy retreated already?" Yao Ji asked nonchalantly.

Mu Yang gave a bitter smile. "The northerners came well-prepared with formidable forces. They won’t retreat so easily. General Leng is barely holding on..." Mid-sentence, Mu Yang suddenly paused, lost in thought. Yao Ji didn’t look at him, leaning casually against the windowsill as she remarked, "The enemy is about to reach the capital, yet these people still find things to fight over. Are they competing to be the last ruler of a fallen dynasty?"

Mu Yang smiled wryly and said, "You shouldn’t say such things lightly." Yet he knew this was simply Yao Ji’s nature and couldn’t bring himself to scold her. At the same time, he pondered her earlier words. The situation at Zijing Pass was dire, yet Prince Li and the Liu family were solely focused on their power struggle, neglecting the crisis. If Zijing Pass fell, the northern army would have a clear path to the capital, arriving within two days. If the Mu family, like the Leng family, were to defend the border... perhaps they could extricate themselves from this conflict. As long as Zijing Pass held, the Mu family would be seen as heroes regardless of who won.

Realizing this, Mu Yang couldn’t wait any longer. Softly, he said to Yao Ji and Mu Lie, "I have some matters to attend to and won’t join you for dinner tonight. I’ll visit you tomorrow." With that, he turned and walked out. Behind him, Mu Lie respectfully said, "Take care, Father."

After seeing Mu Yang off, the well-behaved Mu Lie looked up at Yao Ji, who was reclining by the window, and frowned. "You don’t still like this man, do you? He’s nowhere near as good as Commander Qin."

Yao Ji was taken aback and flicked his head in annoyance. "What does a child like you know about liking someone or who’s better?"

Mu Lie pursed his lips, his sharp brows furrowing with a hint of scorn. "Of course I know. He acts so devoted to you, yet he already has a wife. When his wife and mother bully you, he’s useless—only knows how to fawn over you afterward. Can’t even control his own wife or protect the person he claims to love. What else is he but a good-for-nothing?"Yao Ji looked at him in surprise and said, "Are you really only seven years old?" Mu Yang rolled his eyes and replied, "Don't you know I'm already eleven?" It was just that he had started martial arts training too early as a child, which had stunted his growth temporarily. However, the physician had assured him that he would experience a rapid growth spurt by the age of fourteen or fifteen, and his adult height wouldn't be affected. Yao Ji was speechless—eleven was still a child, after all.

Gazing at the little boy staring at her with such earnestness, Yao Ji smiled faintly and said, "Don't worry, I know what should and shouldn't be done. Prince Ding and Wang Fei have given me a second chance at life—I won’t ruin their plans." Only then did Mu Lie nod in satisfaction. "That's more like it. Rest assured, I’ll make sure you return safely to see your son." Yao Ji couldn't help but chuckle. "Then I’ll thank you in advance." Mu Lie gave a light hum and turned his face away, slightly embarrassed. Yao Ji turned to look out the window, a faint smile lingering on her lips. Ever since she had fled Chu Jing with her child, she and Mu Yang had severed all ties. From now on... they would simply serve different masters.

Mu Yang acted swiftly. No one knew how Marquis Muyang had managed to persuade both the Liu family and Prince Li's faction, but within three days, Mu Yang set off for Zijing Pass with two hundred thousand troops and provisions. Before departing, he turned back and saw Yao Ji holding Mu Lie’s hand at the gates of Marquis Muyang Manor, watching him leave. The faint smile on Yao Ji’s lips inexplicably made his heart skip a beat, and a vague unease spread through him. By the time he looked again, Yao Ji’s face was already too distant to discern clearly. He could only see her standing in his direction, with Mu Lie waving his little hand at him. Mu Yang shook his head and smiled faintly to himself—perhaps he was overthinking things on the eve of his campaign.

Several days later, a carriage escorted by a group of riders quietly entered the capital. The carriage stopped at the most luxurious inn in the city, and the nearly thirty guards, disciplined and orderly, drew curious glances from passersby.

The carriage curtain was lifted, and a figure clad in white stepped out, landing gracefully. The onlookers gasped in admiration. It was the end of the first lunar month, and Chu Jing had yet to welcome early spring—the cold was still biting enough to make one shiver. Yet this man wore only a flowing white silk robe, carefree and unbothered by the chill. What drew the most attention, however, was his long silver hair. In all the world, there was only one man with such striking silver locks. Those who secretly speculated felt their hearts race. But since Prince Ding had long secluded himself due to facial scars, few in the capital had seen his true appearance, leaving them with nothing but suspicions.

After alighting, the man turned and extended his hand toward the carriage. From within emerged a graceful woman wrapped in an autumn-green cloak trimmed with white fox fur. Though barely twenty, her poise and bearing far surpassed those of the noble ladies commonly seen in the capital. Even from a distance, she exuded an air of refined elegance and dignified presence.Before the crowd could fully marvel at the striking couple, a small head peeked out from the carriage. A five or six-year-old boy dressed in black brocade emerged, his collar and cuffs trimmed with white fox fur that beautifully complemented his fair, delicate face, making him even more adorable. The child flashed an innocent, charming smile at the woman, stirring such fondness in distant onlookers that they couldn't help wishing such a sweet, well-behaved child were their own.

Seeing Mo Xiaobao reaching out his little arms for a hug, Mo Xiuyao gently pressed Ye Li's hand and said coolly, "Careful, it's cold." He then picked up Xiao Bao himself, though his hold was far from gentle. The boy squirmed uncomfortably, earning a light swat on the bottom from Mo Xiuyao, which immediately made him settle obediently in his father's arms. Father is the worst—his hugs are so uncomfortable.

Ye Li smiled faintly. "It's not that cold." Though she lacked Mo Xiuyao's profound inner energy and didn't need many extra layers in winter, she considered herself far hardier against the cold than most. Besides, if the northwest hadn't chilled her, Chu Jing certainly wouldn't be any colder.

The commotion outside had long drawn the innkeeper out. One glance told him these guests were of extraordinary status. Though curious about Mo Xiuyao's white hair, he eagerly ushered them inside, bypassing the front desk entirely. "Esteemed sir and madam, please come in! We have two fine courtyards available. Would you prefer—?"

In top-tier inns, beyond the standard Heaven, Earth, and Man rooms, the most luxurious accommodations were private courtyards—costing ten times more than Heaven-class rooms and fully staffed with maids and servants.

Mo Xiuyao replied indifferently, "We'll take both."

The innkeeper brightened, his smile widening. "Of course, of course! This way, please. May I ask the gentleman's esteemed name for our records?"

Mo Xiuyao paused, giving him a cool glance. "Mo. Mo Xiuyao."

"Ah, Master Mo, what a fine—wait, Mo...?" The innkeeper's cheerful flattery faltered as the name registered. His foot slipped, sending him tumbling to the ground. Gazing up at the tall, silver-haired man, he gasped, "Prince Ding?!"

Mo Xiuyao nodded. "Indeed."

Author's Note: Well... This time, we'll probably have to deal with people like Mo Jingqi. I remember a reader mentioned earlier that even after over a million words, not a single antagonist has been resolved. Actually, the main reason is that Feng isn't too fond of the writing style where characters travel across maps, fight monsters, and clear dungeons. It might be easier to write—and readers might find it more satisfying—to have them travel to a new map and defeat a boss. But in reality, not everyone can be casually discarded by the protagonists, whether it's due to bad timing, maintaining balance, or other strategic reasons. Even in dungeon runs, there are times when the party wipes. ( ^__^ ) Hehe... Of course, our A Li and Xiu Yao won't wipe. But I really can't have them just go to Nanzhao and take out the King of Nanzhao, then head to Western Liang and eliminate Zhennan Wang. Haha... This is my first long original work, so please bear with my lack of experience~