Mo Li

After a lengthy discussion, Xu Hongyu left behind a pile of official histories, secret histories, and unofficial records for Ye Li to read at her leisure before departing with Xu Hongyan, leaving Lord Ye uneasy in their wake. Meeting her father’s complicated gaze, Ye Li gave a slight curtsy and leisurely returned to her Qingyi House to study the historical texts.

Ye Li and Mo Xiuyao’s wedding date was set for the twentieth of May, said to be the most auspicious day in the month. It was rumored that Lord Ye had initially been dissatisfied with this date, as it wasn’t considered an especially favorable Auspicious Day. The constant mishaps surrounding Ye Ying’s marriage had already infuriated him, and if anything went wrong with Ye Li’s wedding, Ye Shan and Ye Lin might as well forget about marrying at all. However, neither the Ding Royal Palace, the Xu family, nor Ye Li herself had any particular opinion about the Auspicious Day. Moreover, if they didn’t choose this date, the wedding would have to be postponed until at least August, as June and July were even less suitable for weddings. Given the recent incident of Ye Li’s abduction, neither the Ding Royal Palace nor the Xu family would tolerate any delay in the wedding. Thus, Lord Ye’s minor dissatisfaction was naturally ignored.

By mid-May, Ye Li’s previously tranquil life came to an abrupt end. The once-quiet Qingyi House was now bustling with constant activity. Countless items were delivered daily, along with endless account books and lists that required Ye Li’s personal review. Even with the guidance and assistance of two elderly maids, Ye Li was exhausted. Meanwhile, as the people of the capital witnessed the Ye, Xu, and Ding Royal Palace families preparing for the wedding without paying heed to rumors, the lingering doubts gradually faded away.

"I’m so envious of Li’er! The Ding Royal Palace’s wedding is bound to be the grandest in the last decade," Murong Ting exclaimed, sprawled inelegantly on a soft couch while clutching a roll of First-rate Precious Silk that had just been delivered.

Ye Li, Qin Zheng, and Hua Tianxiang were sorting through account books, while Ye Shan and Ye Lin sat quietly nearby, doing needlework. Outside, the clamor of people coming and going continued. Hua Tianxiang glanced up from the account books and remarked, "Li’er didn’t invite you here to gush about envy. If you have time to chatter, you might as well help out. But… you’re not wrong."

Qin Zheng, scribbling notes in the account books with a brush, asked, "Is Madam Wang really not planning to help manage the wedding at all? It won’t reflect well on her reputation if word gets out."

Ye Li smiled faintly. "Old Madam added quite a bit to my dowry, so she’s been feeling unwell these past few days. She claims that Fourth Sister is ill at Prince Li's Palace and needs her care, so she left early in the morning."

Murong Ting scoffed at this. "Who’s ever heard of a mother rushing to her daughter’s side less than a month after marriage? But… is Ye Ying really sick? I haven’t seen her return to flaunt her status lately."

Hua Tianxiang smirked. "She’d need the means to flaunt anything. If Prince Li treated her well, she might have come back to show off her newlywed bliss. But now, with Qixia Princess still clinging to Prince Li every day, she’s lucky she hasn’t turned into a resentful recluse."Qin Zheng shook her head, uninterested in such trivial gossip. She was more concerned about Ye Li's marriage itself, truly puzzled by Madam Wang's thoughts. Everyone knew exactly how much betrothal gifts the Ding Royal Palace had sent. Even if the Ye family added more, they wouldn't lose out. Wasn't she just making the Ye family lose face with all this fuss? Hua Tianxiang said, "You know Madam Wang's background. Even as the official wife of Lord Ye now, her status isn't sufficient to preside over A Li's wedding. It'll likely still require Ye Laofuren to step forward. By the way, the Ding Royal Palace also lacks a female figure to take charge. A Li, has Prince Ding mentioned who will preside over matters at the Ding Royal Palace?"

Ye Li nodded, "Originally, Princess Zhaoyang intended to. Although Prince Ding addresses Princess Zhaoyang as his aunt, their actual generational rank is equal. So, Princess Zhaoyang suggested inviting Grand Princess Xifu instead."

"Wow..." Murong Ting gasped, nearly jumping off the couch. Under everyone's collective gaze, she chuckled awkwardly, "Grand Princess Xifu... She's the previous emperor's aunt. Even the Ding King from two generations ago respectfully addressed her as 'Imperial Elder Sister.' I heard Grand Princess Xifu is seventy-five this year." Qin Zheng nodded, "Honestly, if not for A Li's wedding, I'd have forgotten this princess was still alive. They say she withdrew from worldly affairs over twenty years ago. Who would have thought she'd emerge now to preside over Prince Ding's wedding?"

Hua Tianxiang waved her hand dismissively, "It's not that surprising. My grandfather once said the Grand Princess's favorite junior was always Prince Ding. She even held him when he was born. When Prince Ding was severely injured and barely clinging to life, it was the Grand Princess who tirelessly cared for him day and night. In any case, Prince Ding inviting the Grand Princess to preside shows his sincerity toward A Li." Murong Ting grinned, "That's why I said A Li's wedding will probably be the grandest in the past decade. I hear dignitaries from other nations will attend too."

Ye Li frowned, "What does Prince Ding's Estate's wedding have to do with foreign dignitaries?"

"A Li, don't underestimate the Ding Royal Palace's prestige. For a century, the Ding Royal Palace has swept across all directions—that's no exaggeration. Virtually every nation bordering Chu has dealt with them."

Ye Li nodded, "I see. They're here to mock. The sole descendant of the once-mighty Ding Royal Palace, the current Prince Ding, is a disfigured cripple confined to a wheelchair—what could delight foreign dignitaries more? I bet royal families abroad are more intrigued by this wedding than if Chu had a new emperor." The group fell silent for a moment, sighing in unison. Indeed, those foreign envoys weren't coming to congratulate Prince Ding's marriage but to witness how far the sole heir of the long-silent Ding Royal Palace had fallen and whether he still posed any threat.

"A Li..."Ye Li waved her hand dismissively, "It's nothing serious. What can they possibly do to me in the capital of Great Chu? Instead of worrying about these things, you should help me sort out all these documents. Second Aunt will be reviewing them tomorrow." She rubbed her temples as she looked at the piles of messy gift lists and account books before her. Only now did she realize how wonderful things like Arabic numerals and double-entry bookkeeping truly were. But this wasn’t the time to stand out—there would be plenty of time to reorganize everything properly once she arrived at the Ding Royal Palace. Hua Tianxiang and Qin Zheng silently glanced at the remaining stacks of account books, then lowered their heads in exhaustion. After returning home, they would have to relearn household management from their mothers—these things were just too overwhelming.

Ye Lin and Ye Shan listened to their conversation from the side, feeling both envy and sympathy for Ye Li. However, they knew they couldn’t contribute much to the discussion, so they simply kept their ears perked and their heads down, focusing on their own tasks.

"Huh?" Murong Ting, who had been lying listlessly on the soft couch, suddenly sprang up and rushed to the half-open window. She leaned out and peered around for a long while before pulling back in confusion, her face full of bewilderment.

Hua Tianxiang looked at her and asked, "What’s wrong? Did you see something outside?"

Murong Ting shook her head and glanced at Ye Li but didn’t say anything more. Ye Li smiled faintly and said, "I think I just saw a green bird fly past the window. Did you see it too, Murong?" Murong Ting blinked, then pouted in frustration. "Yes! I saw a really beautiful bird, but by the time I got to the window, it was gone." Qin Zheng couldn’t help but giggle, covering her lips with her hand. "Birds fly so fast—how could it possibly wait for you?" Hua Tianxiang shot her a sidelong glance. "Since when did you become so interested in birds? If you really like them, ask your father to catch one for you, or just buy a pretty one. No need to make such a fuss."

"I like it this way," Murong Ting retorted, lifting her chin proudly before flopping back onto the couch. She also shot Ye Li a subtle glare. Ye Li suppressed a smile—of course she knew what Murong Ting had heard. Recently, there had been quite a few strange people trying to visit the Ye residence without using the front gate, but all of them had been thrown out by the guards Mo Xiuyao had secretly assigned for her protection. Still, it was rare for someone to attempt a break-in in broad daylight.

"Miss, Prince Zhennan of Xiling’s heir has sent gifts to congratulate you on your upcoming marriage to Prince Ding," the Ye family’s steward announced respectfully from the doorway.

Ye Li frowned. "Prince Zhennan’s heir? Shouldn’t gifts be sent directly to the Ding Royal Palace?" The steward replied, "The heir said this gift was specially prepared by Western Liang for the future Princess of the State, so it must be delivered directly into your hands to show their sincerity."

"Where is Prince Zhennan’s heir now? Is my father home?" Ye Li asked.

"He is in the main hall. The master has just returned and is keeping him company," the steward answered.

Ye Li nodded. "Understood. Please ask my father and Prince Zhennan’s heir to wait a moment. I will be out shortly."The steward withdrew, and Murong Ting, looking worried, pulled Ye Li aside, saying, "A Li, be careful when you go out. This Zhennan Wang Shizi might not have good intentions." Ye Li raised an eyebrow—indeed, young ladies in the capital knew little about such matters. Murong Ting, having spent her childhood accompanying General Murong on campaigns, likely knew more than they did.

Qingluan and the others helped Ye Li change her clothes and freshen up her appearance while Murong Ting stood nearby, recounting what she knew. "The Zhennan Wang of Western Liang is the younger brother of the current Western Liang Emperor and a renowned general. However, twenty years ago, he suffered a crushing defeat at the hands of Prince Ding’s father, the Regent Mo Liufang. Back then, my father was just a lowly captain. According to him, Zhennan Wang lost terribly in that battle and even lost an arm in the chaos. Afterward, Zhennan Wang repeatedly sent assassins after the Regent, but all attempts failed. You know… the Regent has long since passed. If Zhennan Wang holds a grudge… then that vengeance would naturally fall upon Mo Liufang’s son and daughter-in-law—you and Mo Xiuyao."

"So, Zhennan Wang Shizi is here to cause trouble?" Qin Zheng paled, looking anxiously at Ye Li. "Should we send someone to inform Prince Ding?"

Ye Li shook her head. "No need. Prince Ding will likely find out soon enough. Besides, Zhennan Wang Shizi wouldn’t stoop so low as to harass a young lady—that would disgrace both Western Liang and Zhennan Wang himself. If he wants trouble, he should aim for Mo Xiuyao. We’re not even married yet." After checking her reflection in the mirror and confirming she was presentable, Ye Li stood up. "I’ll go see what’s happening. You all wait here."

Murong Ting immediately stepped forward, standing firmly beside Ye Li. "I’m going with you. Tianxiang and Zheng'er can stay."

Ye Li couldn’t help but laugh. "Murong, I’m not going to war."

Murong insisted, "I don’t care. Even if I have to follow you secretly, I’ll do it. If that Zhennan Shizi tries anything shady, I’ll be there to rescue you."

"Committing misconduct against the future Princess Ding in broad daylight in Great Chu? Only Murong would think of such a thing." Hua Tianxiang waved her hand. "Fine, take Murong with you, Li'er. She just loves a spectacle."

Murong Ting didn’t care what they thought. Happily clinging to Ye Li’s arm, she urged, "Hurry, hurry!"

"Father." Upon entering the hall, Ye Li realized the steward’s report had been far too vague. She had assumed only her father and the guest would be present, but Mo Jingli and Ye Ying were also seated as companions. Murong Ting shot her a look that said, Why is he everywhere? Ye Li could only smile helplessly in response before stepping forward to greet Lord Ye.

In front of outsiders, Lord Ye was more than happy to play the role of a doting father. He smiled affectionately at Ye Li. "Li'er, you’re here. And Miss Murong as well?"

Murong Ting curled her lips slightly. "Forgive my uninvited presence, Uncle."

Lord Ye chuckled. "Not at all. I’m delighted that Li'er has such a good friend as you. Li'er, Miss Murong, this is Zhennan Wang Shizi of Western Liang."Only then did the two shift their gaze to the young man seated nearby. Western Liang lay to the northwest of Great Chu, and its customs differed significantly from those of Great Chu. However, there was one amusing detail: within Western Liang, they referred to themselves as Great Ling and called Great Chu "Eastern Chu," while Great Chu referred to them as Western Liang and themselves as Great Chu. Just from these titles, it was clear that the two nations had never been on particularly friendly terms.

The Zhennan Wang Shizi was tall and upright, his features sharp and chiseled like a blade. Ye Li could clearly see that his eyes held a faint hint of dark purple. It was said that the royal family of Western Liang all had brown eyes, so the Shizi's appearance clearly indicated he was not of pure Western Liang descent. Even the usually boisterous Murong Ting displayed proper etiquette in the presence of a foreign envoy.

The Zhennan Wang Shizi scrutinized the two women without restraint, quickly dismissing Murong Ting and focusing entirely on Ye Li. After a long pause, he finally spoke: "Princess of the State, Miss Murong, there’s no need for formalities. I am Lei Tengfeng."

Lei—the royal surname of Western Liang. At least there was no language barrier.

Lord Ye glanced at the imposing Zhennan Wang Shizi, then at Ye Li, clearing his throat before saying, "Li'er, the Shizi has come specifically to deliver wedding gifts to you."

Ye Li nodded. "Thank you, Shizi. We appreciate your effort in making the journey. I hope Great Chu makes you feel welcome."

Lei Tengfeng laughed heartily. "Of course. I have long admired the sights of Great Chu and will certainly take the time to explore them thoroughly." He clapped his hands lightly, and two guards entered, one carrying a long, narrow carved wooden box. Judging by its shape and size, Ye Li had an uneasy feeling—this was likely no ordinary gift.

At Lei Tengfeng's signal, the other guard opened the box, releasing a wave of chilling cold. Lord Ye's expression darkened as he abruptly stood, his voice low and stern. "Shizi, what is the meaning of this?"

Lei Tengfeng raised an eyebrow, feigning confusion. "This is a gift personally selected by my father and uncle for the Princess of the State. Is there a problem?"

Lord Ye replied, "My daughter is about to be married. What does it mean to present her with a sword? Blades are weapons of ill omen."

Inside the exquisitely carved box lay an ancient-looking longsword. Even sheathed, its cold, murderous aura was palpable—clearly a peerless weapon tempered in blood.

"This is a gift my kingdom and my father procured with great effort to demonstrate our sincerity. Or... could it be that none of you recognize the origin of this sword?" Lei Tengfeng crossed his arms, smirking at the gathered crowd.

Hearing the veiled mockery in his tone, Mo Jingli frowned and stood to examine the sword. Murong Ting, sensing something, hesitated before glancing at Ye Li.

After a long silence, Mo Jingli finally spoke in a grave voice: "This is—the Cloud-Grasping Sword."

Lei Tengfeng applauded. "As expected of Prince Li—your discernment is unmatched. Indeed, this is the Cloud-Grasping Sword."The crowd was visibly moved. Though not an ancient legendary sword, the reputation of this blade was no less than any renowned weapon passed down through the ages. This sword shared its fame with the first Prince Ding, Mo Lanyun, having been his trusted weapon during his conquests. It had also been the personal sword of successive generations of Princes Ding. Countless lives had been claimed by this blade as it accompanied generations of Princes Ding across battlefields, its dominance unchallenged. Until seven years ago, when the previous Prince Ding, Mo Xiuwen, passed away from illness at the border, and the sword vanished without a trace. Despite numerous searches both overt and covert, its whereabouts remained unknown. This gift was indeed of significant weight and sincerity.

Lei Tengfeng clapped his hands and laughed, "Ever since the Cloud-Grasping Sword was lost, my father has spared no effort in searching for it far and wide. Fortunately, perseverance paid off, and we found it a year ago in the Northern Di region. We thought it fitting to return it to its rightful place on the occasion of Prince Ding's wedding. What does the Princess of the State think?"

Lord Ye's expression turned grave as he stood and addressed Lei Tengfeng, "Such a generous gift indeed warrants our deepest gratitude to the Zhennan Wang Shizi. The Cloud-Grasping Sword could be considered a national treasure of Great Chu." The weight of the gift was such that Lord Ye dared not refuse it. He couldn't help but regret inwardly not having declined the Zhennan Wang Shizi's visit in the first place.

Lei Tengfeng nodded in satisfaction, raising an eyebrow with a smile. "To be honest, upon acquiring such a treasure, I did consider keeping it for myself. However, the Cloud-Grasping Sword seems to have a will of its own. Despite my countless attempts, I could not draw it from its sheath. Even after enlisting the help of a master swordsmith of our time to unsheathe it, the sword refused to obey. Not even the greatest swordsman of Western Liang could wield it. I concluded that the Cloud-Grasping Sword must only recognize those of the Ding Royal Palace, hence my request for the Princess of the State to try it."

Lord Ye replied displeased, "My daughter is not versed in swordsmanship. Moreover, if the Zhennan Wang Shizi wishes to test the sword, he should approach Prince Ding."

Lei Tengfeng looked at Ye Li and smiled, "Does the Princess of the State not count as a member of the Ding Royal Palace? It is said that a century ago, the first Princess of the State once used this sword to slay sixteen enemy soldiers and save Prince Ding's life, a tale that has been celebrated ever since. This shows that the sword does not require the bloodline of the Ding Royal Palace; a worthy partner to Prince Ding would suffice. What does the Princess of the State think?" Before Ye Li could respond, Mo Jingli snorted coldly, "Princess Qingyun was a peerless heroine, skilled in both literature and martial arts. It's no surprise she could wield the Cloud-Grasping Sword. Is the Zhennan Wang Shizi deliberately trying to embarrass Great Chu by asking Ye Li to wield it? Everyone knows she probably couldn't even perform a complete sword routine." Lei Tengfeng laughed, "I, however, have faith in the judgment of the Ding Royal Palace. Throughout history, every Princess of the State has been an extraordinary woman of remarkable talent." Mo Jingli retorted mockingly, "This generation is the exception."

Murong Ting protested indignantly, "Zhennan Wang Shizi, you bring a sword you couldn't even draw yourself and ask a woman who has never practiced martial arts to wield it? Is it customary in Western Liang to impose such unreasonable demands?"

"Whether it's unreasonable or not, why not ask the Princess of the State herself? My father insisted this sword must be given to the Princess of the State. Unless... I must take it back to Western Liang?" This was clearly a threat. Lei Tengfeng's message was unambiguous: if the future Princess of the State could not draw or wield the Cloud-Grasping Sword, he would have no choice but to take it back to Western Liang. Should that happen, Great Chu would lose not just face but its dignity as well.Third Sister, why don’t you give it a try? Perhaps you can pull it out. Ye Ying spoke softly. The Western Liang Shizi has presented such a generous gift—wouldn’t it be impolite to our neighboring kingdom if we refuse? Lord Ye frowned at Ye Ying, silently weighing whether Ye Li’s refusal to draw the sword or her failure to do so would be more embarrassing.

"Prince Ding has arrived!" A voice announced from outside the door as Mo Xiuyao entered with A Jin in tow. The gathered guests exhaled subtly in relief, while Murong Ting discreetly winked at Ye Li.

Lei Tengfeng, who had been lounging casually in his seat, straightened the moment Mo Xiuyao appeared. His sharp gaze swept over Mo Xiuyao’s calm and composed expression before flickering toward Ye Li. She suppressed a laugh—no doubt the Shizi was internally debating whether the Cloud-Grasping Sword or his betrothed held more weight in Mo Xiuyao’s heart, and why the prince had come at all.

"Greetings to Prince Ding. I, Lei Tengfeng, have long admired your reputation," Tengfeng said with a smile as he rose.

"You honor me too much, Shizi. In my youth, I was fortunate enough to witness Zhennan Wang’s distinguished presence. I trust he remains as illustrious as ever?" Mo Xiuyao returned the courtesy with a faint nod.

A flicker of tension crossed Tengfeng’s eyes before he chuckled. "My father is in good health and often speaks of Your Highness’s past achievements, urging us to emulate even a fraction of them."

Mo Xiuyao remained unperturbed. "His Highness flatters me. Meeting you today assures me that Zhennan Wang’s legacy is in capable hands."

Watching the two men exchange pleasantries in such a stiflingly tense atmosphere, Ye Li couldn’t help but feel amused. Someone had once said diplomacy was an exceedingly delicate affair.

Once the formalities concluded, Mo Xiuyao guided his wheelchair to Ye Li’s side and murmured, "A Li seems to be in high spirits?"

She smiled faintly. "Zhennan Wang Shizi has gifted something quite precious. Since Your Highness is here, would you care to admire it together?"

Mo Xiuyao nodded with a smile, his gaze resting on the Cloud-Grasping Sword in the box. His eyes were calm and unruffled, as if it were merely an ordinary sword. Turning to Lei Tengfeng, he said, "His Majesty and the Prince of your esteemed kingdom have gone to great lengths. This sword has been lost for many years—who would have thought it would resurface today?"

Lei Tengfeng raised an eyebrow. "The Cloud-Grasping Sword is a treasure of Great Chu, and it is only right that it returns intact. However, might this humble prince have the honor of witnessing the famed blade's brilliance?"

"A Jin."

A Jin stepped forward, carefully taking the longsword from the Western Liang guards and presenting it to Mo Xiuyao. Mo Xiuyao accepted it with one hand and looked up, asking, "A Li, what do you think?"

Ye Li lowered her head, lightly touching the ancient scabbard before nodding. "Though I am no expert, even I can tell this is a fine sword."

Indeed, Ye Li knew little of swordsmanship. In her past life, the only swords she had seen were the tai chi swords wielded by elderly practitioners in parks. On modern battlefields, even among cold weapons, swords were rarely used—short knives, daggers, and emei spikes were far more practical for close combat.

Slowly gripping the hilt, she did not rush to draw it. If this sword was truly as difficult to unsheathe and wield as Lei Tengfeng claimed, there was likely some mechanism on the scabbard or blade.

Mo Xiuyao smiled and covered her hand on the hilt with his own, lifting the blade with his other hand. Under the watchful eyes of the crowd, Ye Li keenly sensed Mo Xiuyao's hand subtly shifting before pulling outward—

A flash of cold light erupted, the blade singing like a dragon. The entire hall seemed to freeze for an instant—though only for a moment. Ye Li quickly felt the overwhelming battle intent and crushing aura emanating from the sword. It was a dangerous presence only those who had truly been on the battlefield could perceive.

At some point, Mo Xiuyao had released her hand. Ye Li held the sword and casually swung it to the side—the ancient painting on the far wall split cleanly in half.

"An excellent sword!" she praised. The sheer sharpness of the blade could sever the painting effortlessly—truly capable of splitting a hair. Steadying the sword in her hand, she coolly met Lei Tengfeng's intense gaze.

Before the others could react, Mo Xiuyao had already taken the Cloud-Grasping Sword from Ye Li and sheathed it. Lei Tengfeng stared at the half-ruined painting on the wall before finally exhaling softly. "Indeed, a peerless blade."

As for whether Ye Li could truly master the sword, no one cared anymore—she had already drawn it, and in her hands, it had shown its unparalleled sharpness. The Third Miss Ye, frail as she appeared, had not only lifted the sword but held it steady. To demand she demonstrate swordsmanship now would be unreasonable, and even the hostile Zhennan Wang Shizi could not bring himself to insist.

Faced with this outcome, Lord Ye stroked his fine beard, his face brimming with satisfaction. The Ye family's daughter had reclaimed a long-lost treasure for Great Chu and would take the Cloud-Grasping Sword as part of her dowry. What immense glory this would bring!

Ye Li sighed inwardly. If this sword remained in the Ye residence, their roof would surely be trampled flat by intruders. She doubted Lei Tengfeng would let such a priceless gift go unremarked—yet refusing it was not an option.

"Shizi, what of this sword?" Ye Li smiled faintly at the momentarily dazed Lei Tengfeng.Lei Tengfeng gazed at the woman before him, then turned his eyes to Mo Xiuyao seated beside her, smiling as he said, "This sword is naturally a congratulatory gift for the Princess of the State. I also take this opportunity to wish the two of you a harmonious union lasting a hundred years, growing old together in happiness."

Mo Xiuyao replied, "In that case, we accept your auspicious words, Shizi."

Lei Tengfeng stood and addressed the gathered guests, "The gift has been delivered. I shall take my leave now and return to trouble the Prince on the day of the grand wedding."

"Take care. We won’t see you out."

After seeing off Zhennan Wang Shizi, Murong Ting stared longingly at the Cloud-Grasping Sword in A Jin’s hands, her eyes nearly popping out of her head. She absentmindedly tugged at Ye Li’s sleeve, exclaiming, "A Li, A Li… the Cloud-Grasping Sword! The real Cloud-Grasping Sword! Can I touch it?" Ye Li looked helplessly at her covetous expression and glanced back at Mo Xiuyao. Mo Xiuyao raised an eyebrow slightly and said, "It’s fine. Since it was given to you, it naturally belongs to A Li now."

Ye Li looked at him and said, "I thought this was a treasured heirloom of the Ding Royal Palace. It doesn’t seem that important now?" Murong Ting paid no attention to this. With a cheer, she pounced forward and snatched the sword from A Jin’s hands, cradling it as she stroked it left and right.

Mo Xiuyao nodded. "Having been passed down for so many generations, of course it’s a treasured heirloom. If it were to be passed down for another thousand years, it wouldn’t be inferior to legendary swords like Ganjiang and Moye."

Murong Ting lovingly caressed the sword as she spoke, "In fact, it’s said that the Cloud-Grasping Sword contains the military strategies and treasures of Prince Ding. Of course, that’s not important. What matters is that this is the sword used by every generation of Prince Ding! Just being able to touch it is an incredible blessing. My father would be so envious of me." Ye Li raised an eyebrow, realizing that the phenomenon of idol worship existed in every era. "Military strategies? Treasures? Is this sword really still intact? Western Liang should have dismantled it piece by piece, inspecting it thoroughly inside and out." Mo Xiuyao glanced at the sword in Murong Ting’s hands, a trace of warmth flashing in his eyes as he said calmly, "They did examine it. The sword itself wasn’t damaged."

"So?" Murong Ting, forgetting who she was speaking to, widened her eyes in anticipation as she waited for Mo Xiuyao to reveal the answer.

Mo Xiuyao looked at Ye Li and smiled. "So, it’s just a sword. It’s good to have it back, as it’s an ancestral relic. If it had been lost, we could always have another master swordsmith forge a new one."

"Then what about the military strategies? The treasures?" Murong Ting asked, disappointed.

Mo Xiuyao regarded everyone calmly. "The Cloud-Grasping Sword was forged when our ancestor was sixteen years old, using all his savings at the time. Where would treasures and military strategies come from?"

The crowd fell silent. The world only remembered that the Cloud-Grasping Sword had accompanied Mo Lanyun throughout his life and was the personal sword of every generation of Prince Ding. They assumed it must hold some great secret, forgetting that Mo Lanyun had forged the sword in his youth, when the future legendary figure was merely a wild and unrestrained young noble. He was a far cry from the Prince Ding who would later assist his elder brother in conquering the realm and pacifying the lands. Even Lord Ye, a scholar with little knowledge of the Cloud-Grasping Sword, couldn’t help but feel disappointed.

"If the Cloud-Grasping Sword were truly that important, who would carry it around? And how could it have been lost so easily? A Li, I’ll take my leave now. I’ll send some people over later?" Ye Li nodded, taking the Cloud-Grasping Sword from Murong Ting’s hands and tossing it to A Jin. "A Jin, you’d better take the Cloud-Grasping Sword back to the Ding Royal Palace first. It’s inconvenient to keep it here." She had no interest in having people constantly trampling over her roof to catch a glimpse of it.

Mo Xiuyao nodded. "That’s fine."Watching the Cloud-Grasping Sword disappear beyond the door, Murong Ting reluctantly withdrew her gaze.

Mo Jingli eyed Ye Li suspiciously and said, "Do you really believe there are no secrets hidden in the Cloud-Grasping Sword?"

Ye Li nodded matter-of-factly. "If I had military strategies or treasures, I wouldn't hide them in a sword. As a frequently used, carried-along, highly renowned, and rather bulky weapon, it’s hardly a good place to conceal secrets."

"You philistines! That was Prince Ding’s relic! A relic!" Murong Ting scornfully glared at the crowd of commoners filling the hall.

－－－－－－Author's Note－－－－－－

The grand wedding is tomorrow! The grand wedding! The grand wedding!