The Double

Chapter 211: Destruction

From the moment he was rescued until now, everything felt like a dream.

The young man was leaning on his chair when he suddenly heard footsteps. Turning around, he saw a man standing in the flowerbed not far from his courtyard.

The man was young, unexpectedly dressed in a vibrant red robe, his profile so handsome it seemed unreal and vaguely familiar. Ah Zhao stared for a moment before realizing—this was the very man who had saved him from the private prison at the princess’s estate that day. But back then, the man had been dressed in solemn black, whereas today he was radiantly colorful, making him almost unrecognizable at first glance.

Ah Zhao wanted to personally thank his savior—this man had saved his life, yet he hadn’t had the chance to express his gratitude.

With difficulty, he began pushing the wheels of his chair toward the flowerbed.

The closer he got, the clearer it became that the red-robed youth was standing before a tree—or more precisely, a sapling. It wasn’t very tall yet, tender and green, nearly lost amid the flourishing vitality of the flowerbed. Yet the red-robed youth was fixated on it, lost in thought.

The sound of Ah Zhao’s wheelchair wheels scraping against the ground was distinct. He assumed the man had heard but wasn’t paying much attention. It was only when Ah Zhao was almost upon him that the man casually turned to look.

Situ Jiuyue had told him that his rescuer was the master of the Duke’s estate, Duke Su. There were countless rumors about Duke Su, most centering on his unpredictability and his extraordinary beauty. While his capricious nature wasn’t immediately apparent, Ah Zhao had to admit that his looks were breathtaking enough to stir unease.

For a moment, Ah Zhao couldn’t help but think of his sister. Back in the day, so many had praised Xue Fangfei as a peerless beauty, and Ah Zhao knew it well. He had always believed no man in the world could match her. Shen Yurong might have been talented, but in terms of appearance, he fell short. However, if Ji Heng stood beside his sister, he wouldn’t be overshadowed. One was devastatingly beautiful, the other unparalleled in the world—though his sister was ethereal and refined, while Ji Heng was overwhelmingly vivid and striking.

“Fool! Fool!” A sudden voice interrupted Ah Zhao’s reverie. Following the sound, he saw a completely black myna perched on the red-robed youth’s shoulder. The myna tilted its head, its beady black eyes studying him for a moment before its beak opened again to squawk, “Fool!”

Anyone less patient would have been infuriated by this impudent bird.

Ji Heng lightly flicked his fan toward his shoulder. Seeming to understand its master’s displeasure, the myna flapped its wings and flew off, alighting on the tender sapling as if to observe the two of them.

“My lord,” Ah Zhao broke the silence. “That day, it was you who saved me from the private prison at the princess’s estate. I haven’t had the chance to see you until now, and today, I only wish to thank you in person for saving my life.”

The man lifted the corner of his lips indifferently. “No need. Your gratitude is worthless.”

Ah Zhao was taken aback. “Even so…”

“Don’t feel indebted to me,” Ji Heng said. “I heard from Situ that you want revenge?”"Yes, it's just that my enemy seems to no longer be in this world." Ah Zhao smiled bitterly. "Fate truly plays cruel tricks."

"There's no need to feel disheartened by this. In life, joyful moments have always been fewer than difficult ones. If you live well, you might soon encounter your next enemy. There's still plenty of opportunity."

His words were cutting and hurtful, yet for some reason, Ah Zhao didn't feel particularly angry. It was hard for him to develop ill feelings toward the man before him. Although the man carried himself with an aloof, unapproachable demeanor, perhaps it was because he had saved his life, or perhaps because after all he'd been through, his temper had grown more tolerant.

However, Ji Heng didn't seem inclined to continue the conversation. He turned to leave, and Ah Zhao asked, "Sir... is there nothing you need me to do in return?"

"Of course not," the man's voice drifted back, unhurried. "You're free to leave whenever you wish. No need to inform me."

Just... like that?

Ah Zhao found it strange. Ji Heng asked nothing of him. The so-called "Duke Su" was known for his "unpredictable moods." Had he saved him that day simply because it coincided with one of his "good" moments?

Watching the figure grow distant until it disappeared from view, Ah Zhao finally withdrew his thoughts and looked up at the sky above the courtyard. He'd heard that Prince Cheng's forces had clashed with the returning General Zhaode's troops, and the outcome was still unknown. His father... where was his father now? And his sister... At this thought, his expression darkened. When Princess Yongning had tormented her, she had also said that Xue Fangfei was dead. Even if he returned to Tongxiang, he wouldn't leave his sister behind in Yanjing City. He would take her coffin back with him, even if only her ashes remained.

...

News of the war reached Yanjing daily, and each report seemed to be a victory. Prince Cheng's long-planned rebellion, under the fearless might of General Zhaode, appeared as a joke, crumbling effortlessly.

As time passed, the people of Yanjing City grew lax, widely believing that Prince Cheng's defeat was inevitable. As long as General Zhaode stood guard, the Northern Yan would remain free of rebel unrest. Gradually, the streets grew busier again. Life had to go on, and those who had been anxious now settled their fears, carrying on with their daily routines as usual. Except for some elderly and extremely timid women, most were no longer affected by the turmoil.

Thus, Yanjing City's spring passed, giving way to summer. The summer heat seemed to burst forth overnight, with the sun blazing fiercely. People on the streets appeared listless, and vendors began selling chilled treats to beat the heat. Wealthy families simply stayed indoors, seeking coolness in rooms equipped with ice basins.

Tong'er sat embroidering in the room and asked Jiang Li, "Miss, your birthday is coming up soon."

Jiang Li was taken aback. "Is it?"

She hadn't realized it herself. This time last year, she was still at Qingcheng Mountain, not yet returned to the capital. There, no one celebrated her birthday. Times had changed. Now she was Second Miss Jiang again, and the Jiang family would naturally mark the occasion. It was already the twelfth of July, and by the end of the month, Second Miss Jiang would turn sixteen.It was truly a wonderful age, as if everything still held new hope. Jiang Li thought she could take this opportunity to visit the Ye residence. Since it was her birthday, the Jiang family probably wouldn't stop her. This thought lifted her spirits considerably. However, she held no particular expectations for how this birthday would be celebrated or what gifts she might receive.

Bai Xue entered from outside and said, "Miss."

Noticing her unusual expression, Jiang Li asked, "What's wrong?"

"Everyone outside is saying that Prince Cheng has been defeated. General Yin Zhan took Prince Cheng's head to the palace. Hundreds of thousands of rebel troops have all surrendered or been destroyed. The blood turned the river red."

Jiang Li, who had been sitting, immediately stood up upon hearing this and frowned. "Prince Cheng is dead? The rebels have been eliminated?"

Bai Xue nodded. "It must be true. I also heard from people returning from outside that when General Zhaode returned to the capital, the common people spontaneously lined the streets to welcome him."

Jiang Li didn't care whether Yin Zhan had won the people's hearts or gained fame. She kept pondering Bai Xue's words. Although Prince Cheng couldn't be considered exceptionally brilliant, having schemed for so many years, he had been biding his time and exercising great patience. Since he chose to rebel now, his forces couldn't have been easily defeated. Although Jiang Li had previously guessed that Prince Cheng would fail in this rebellion—not only because of General Zhaode but also because Prince Cheng had underestimated his opponent, the Hongxiao Emperor.

But General Zhaode actually didn't get entangled with Prince Cheng's troops? He just cut through them as if slicing melons and chopping vegetables, and just... won?

It hadn't even been two months.

A chilling feeling suddenly arose in Jiang Li's heart. Perhaps when the late emperor exiled the Prince of Xia to Yunzhong, there were other reasons. The late emperor had been right, yet now that the Prince of Xia had been recalled to the capital, it seemed the people had gained peace and the enemy forces had been eliminated. But this might have invited even greater danger.

General Zhaode's true strength was truly terrifying.

Bai Xue and Tong'er watched Jiang Li quietly, her solemn expression making them tense as well. What they didn't understand was why their young mistress still looked so horrified after hearing about the victory.

Jiang Li looked at the table. Because it was summer, the white jade fan that Yin Zhiqing had given her happened to be useful. She usually left it casually on the table after using it. The white jade fan was exquisite and lovely, just like its owner who had given it to her—gentle and harmless. But was the Yin family truly without ulterior motives, wholeheartedly devoted to the country? Jiang Li believed such people existed in the world, but this Yin family made her feel too strange.

"Bai Xue, grind some ink for me," Jiang Li said. "I'm writing to my cousin."

Ye Shijie served as an official at court and might have heard some rumors. Perhaps he even knew many inside details. If he didn't know, it would still be good for him to be cautious, to avoid inadvertently bringing trouble upon himself.

...

Tonight, Yanjing City was exceptionally lively.

Perhaps because they had received news of Prince Cheng's defeat and death, and the surrender of the rebel army, the common people could finally set their anxious hearts at ease and feel completely secure. Many common people even knelt in worship before the residence where the Prince of Xia lived, expressing gratitude to this general for protecting Yanjing City's peace and safety.The Prince of Xia Commandery must be a good man. Even the servants in his mansion greet everyone with smiling faces, never looking down on the lowly or flattering the powerful. If elderly commoners come to express gratitude, not only do they refuse gifts, but they even give them silver instead, saying it was the general’s order. These days, Yanjing City has been in chaos, and the people have suffered greatly. From now on, there’s no need for such gestures.

Thus, everyone praised him even more—General Zhaode is truly a good man.

Storytellers in teahouses adapted General Zhaode’s battlefield exploits into tales, and the second floor of the teahouses was always packed with listeners, every single time. In Yanjing City’s teahouses, taverns, houses of pleasure, and gambling dens, not a single person spoke ill of General Zhaode. When his name was mentioned, he was hailed as a great hero with a kind heart, an exceptionally good man.

In the Yin residence, Yin Zhan removed his outer robe, washed up, and entered his study.

Someone knocked at the door. Yin Zhan called for them to enter. It was a beautiful middle-aged woman, charming and captivating, with features somewhat resembling Yin Zhiqing. She was Yin Zhiqing’s mother, the wife Yin Zhan later married—Lady Yin.

Lady Yin carefully placed the stone basket she was carrying on the table and took out small bowls of chilled treats one by one. With a somewhat ingratiating smile, she said, "I made these today. Since the general has just returned from outside, I assume you’ve already eaten at the palace. These are refreshing, sweet chilled teas. Having a bowl can help cleanse the palate."

Yin Zhan didn’t even glance at her, merely saying, "Leave them on the table."

A flicker of disappointment crossed Lady Yin’s eyes. She wanted to say more, but Yin Zhan impatiently cut her off, "You may leave. Yin Zhili is about to come in."

It was a clear dismissal. Lady Yin lowered her gaze, picked up the empty food basket, and said gently, "Then please remember to have some, General. I happened to make two bowls—the young master can have one as well."

Yin Zhan had already picked up a letter from the table and paid her no further attention. Lady Yin turned away, suppressing her grievances, and left the room. As she stepped out, she happened to meet Yin Zhili, who was just about to enter. Yin Zhili smiled warmly and said, "Mother."

Lady Yin’s heart tightened, but she returned the smile and reminded Yin Zhili to remember to eat the chilled treats she had prepared before finally leaving and closing the door behind her.

Her entire visit had lasted only a moment. The maids at the door were surprised at how quickly she had emerged. Lady Yin walked past with her head down, avoiding the maids’ expressions. Even without looking, she could feel their mocking gazes piercing her back like thorns.

Yet she had endured such looks silently for so many years.

Her family background was modest—she was not the daughter of a high official or a wealthy household. Marrying Yin Zhan was considered a step up for her. However, everyone assumed Yin Zhan had married her as a second wife because of her captivating beauty. Even her own parents thought so, happily marrying her off.

At first, Lady Yin was delighted. The general was tall, handsome, and had achieved countless military feats. The only complication was the son left by his first wife. Being a stepmother initially made Lady Yin somewhat reluctant, but Yin Zhili was well-behaved and gentle, never causing trouble for her as his stepmother. Instead, he was always polite and respectful, which gradually put Lady Yin at ease. She thought that as long as things started this way, she would wholeheartedly care for them in the future. After all, they were family and could live together harmoniously.Who would have thought that the Yin family had no issues, and Yin Zhili was also without problems—the problem lay with Yin Zhan. Initially, Yin Zhan treated her with great care, and she believed he truly loved her. But after she became pregnant and gave birth to Yin Zhiqing, Yin Zhan abruptly changed, growing cold and distant toward her.

By then, they had already left Yanjing and moved to Yunzhong. Lady Yin could not complain to her maiden family, and indeed, she had no words to express her bitterness. Thinking Yin Zhan had grown tired of her, she took the initiative to find concubines for him, hoping to win back his heart. Yet, Yin Zhan paid no attention to those concubines either. This left Lady Yin utterly perplexed.

From initial fear, unease, and pleas for forgiveness, to eventual numbness, resignation, and learning to deceive herself—it all took only a few years. Lady Yin even found a twisted solace in thinking: though he neglected her, refused to share a room, and never showed concern, at least he did not seek other women. Surely, that meant he still respected her. At least he had left her with a daughter.

In front of Yin Zhiqing, Lady Yin acted as if nothing was wrong, so Yin Zhiqing never noticed that her mother and father had long become like strangers, their relationship utterly abnormal.

In truth, when Yin Zhiqing was present, things were somewhat better. When Yin Zhiqing was absent, and Lady Yin was alone with Yin Zhan, she felt like his servant—humble, subject to his commands, afraid to voice her own needs, cautiously trying to please him, only to be met with his impatient dismissal, just as had happened earlier.

She knew what the maids in the household said behind her back: that she had a charming and captivating face but couldn’t even hold onto a man, truly a blockhead. Lady Yin could only respond with a bitter smile. As the saying goes, "treat the illness with the right medicine." But Yin Zhan’s change seemed to happen overnight, and she had no idea of the cause. How could she find the right cure? All she could do was watch helplessly as the condition worsened, muddling through day by day.

She hurried back to her own courtyard.

Meanwhile, in the study, Yin Zhili picked up the teacup on the table, took a careful sip, and said, "Mother’s skill is excellent. Father, you should try some, lest you hurt her feelings."

"I’ve already eaten at the palace," Yin Zhan replied. "Since you like it, have more. Finish this bowl as well."

"Father, you are truly... too harsh on Mother," Yin Zhili said with a smile, shaking his head as if disapproving of Yin Zhan’s behavior.

Yin Zhan responded, "Do not trouble yourself with these matters. Your mother and I know our own affairs."

"Yes," Yin Zhili said. "I haven’t had the chance to congratulate you today. This time, you achieved a swift victory, suppressing Prince Cheng’s rebellion and adding another merit to your name."

"Prince Cheng was arrogant and stubborn, not worth mentioning. Defeating him is nothing to be proud of. Do not become complacent. This time, if not for fearing trouble in Yanjing City, I would have taken you along."

"I would have liked to go as well," Yin Zhili said with a laugh. "Fighting on the battlefield is truly exhilarating." As he spoke, some of his usual elegance faded, revealing the bold spirit characteristic of a military family. It was this very spirit that made his demeanor, originally so different from Yin Zhan’s, suddenly appear strikingly similar. Anyone seeing them now would surely believe they were indeed father and son."At this palace banquet, His Majesty may reward merits. I lack neither titles nor gold and silver, so I wish to discuss with you—I intend to request an imperial decree on your behalf."

Yin Zhili asked, "What kind of decree?"

"A decree bestowing marriage between you and the Jiang family's Second Miss," Yin Zhan replied. "Exchanging military achievements for a marriage alliance is no loss. What do you think, Zhili?"

Yin Zhili was momentarily stunned, remaining silent as he gazed at Yin Zhan.

Yin Zhan continued, "What? You don’t like Second Miss Jiang?"

"No, it’s just..." Yin Zhili hesitated.

"If you like her, there’s no 'but,'" Yin Zhan said, patting Yin Zhili’s shoulder. "I’m doing this for your sake. Second Miss Jiang has now reached marriageable age. After the Prince Cheng incident, the Jiang family is bound to rise. Many families will seek marriage alliances with them. If I don’t act on your behalf, I fear someone else will seize the opportunity. I’ve already spoken with Jiang Yuanbai, and from what I gather, the Jiang family seems quite fond of you."

"But Second Miss Jiang doesn’t know about this, does she?" Yin Zhili said. "This would come as too much of a surprise to her."

"Do you think Second Miss Jiang isn’t clever enough? A young lady who has accomplished so much in Yanjing City is no ordinary girl. You’ve been visiting the Jiang family frequently these days—even if she hasn’t noticed it herself, her family would have hinted at it. If she hasn’t strongly rejected you, I believe it implies consent. Tell me, has she shown any resistance to this marriage?"

Yin Zhili hesitated before replying, "No."

"My son, you are the finest young man in Northern Yan. Why have you become so indecisive now? With your qualities, how could Second Miss Jiang possibly favor anyone else? Don’t overthink it. Her birthday is approaching soon. On that day, spend some good time with her."

With that, he laughed heartily and strode out of the room, leaving Yin Zhili behind. Yin Zhili stood where he was, staring at two bowls of crystal-clear chilled dessert on the table, his mind drifting to Jiang Li’s gaze in the Jiang family garden.

Her eyes were gentle and clear, brilliantly captivating, yet they always seemed veiled by something. If their betrothal were announced before they had truly opened their hearts to each other, how would Second Miss Jiang react?

Yin Zhili couldn’t shake the feeling that Second Miss Jiang would not be particularly pleased.

...

June 29th was Second Miss Jiang’s birthday.

Early in the morning, Jiang Li received various congratulatory gifts from her family—mostly clothing, jewelry, or gold and silver. Ye Mingyu also sent something over: banknotes, telling Jiang Li to buy whatever she pleased. Xue Huaiyuan sent a painting along as well, which Jiang Li treasured and hung carefully on her study wall. Her father’s artwork remained just as it had been in the past, bringing her far more joy than any gold or jewelry.

She couldn’t go to the Ye residence today because there was a guest at the Jiang family home—and that guest was none other than Yin Zhili.

By now, the Yin family’s intentions were clear, and Jiang Li’s attempts to dissuade her own family had proven futile. The Jiang family likely believed that the Yin family was indeed a suitable match, and Yin Zhili himself had no discernible flaws. Although Jiang Li currently expressed resistance, her family assumed that over time, she would come to appreciate his virtues and her objections would fade."What would you like to wear today, miss?" Tong'er asked.

Jiang Li said, "That one will do." She randomly pointed at one outfit. Bai Xue looked at it and seemed to hesitate. That dress would be fine for ordinary days, but wearing it on such an occasion might appear somewhat plain. Yet Jiang Li showed no intention of changing her mind, so Tong'er nudged Bai Xue and said, "Let her wear whatever she chooses. She knows her own mind."

Tong'er was wholly devoted to considering Jiang Li's well-being. Seeing Jiang Li unhappy these days over the Yin family matters, if wearing a certain outfit could bring her young mistress even a little joy, even if Jiang Li insisted on wearing the Buddhist robe from the nunnery at Qingcheng Mountain, Tong'er wouldn't stop her.

In this vast world, happiness matters most.

Jiang Li smiled and sat before the mirror as Tong'er came over to comb her hair. Gazing at her reflection, Jiang Li thought to herself that the Jiang family believed prolonged interaction would change her views. Yet only she knew how stubborn she truly was. Especially now, it was impossible for her to gradually develop affection for Yin Zhili.

Prince Cheng's forces had been subdued and eliminated by Yin Zhan. Recently in the capital, all officials connected to Prince Cheng had their properties confiscated and families exterminated. Since rebellion was an unforgivable crime, the Hongxiao Emperor, seizing this opportunity, naturally aimed to uproot every nail Prince Cheng had planted, cleansing the court inside and out.

Yet the Hongxiao Emperor alone had not moved against the Right Prime Minister.

Perhaps because the Right Prime Minister's influence was too vast, requiring gradual dismantling rather than swift action, or maybe the Hongxiao Emperor had other plans. Regardless, the Right Prime Minister's days were difficult. He was like the largest tree in a wild forest, with all surrounding trees cleared for miles, leaving him standing alone. He knew he would eventually be felled, but waiting passively made his existence agonizing, each day feeling like a year.

Thus, the third branch of the Jiang family, which had aligned with the Right Prime Minister, was now begging Jiang Yuanbai to save them. Jiang Yuanbai flatly refused, knowing that rescuing Jiang Yuanxing would implicate the entire Jiang family. Everyone had witnessed the Hongxiao Emperor's tactics, and court officials, as if finally seeing the emperor's true nature, were behaving obediently, no longer daring to cause trouble as before.

Of course, everyone also believed the Hongxiao Emperor's eyes were sharper than most. The emperor likely knew of the third branch's collusion with the Right Prime Minister. The Jiang family avoided imperial suspicion precisely because they had already divided the household. If Jiang Yuanxing returned now, it would bring true disaster upon the Jiang family.

Jiang Li learned of these matters concerning the third branch from Jiang family servants. She didn't particularly care about them—Jiang Yuanxing was too weak, and Yang Shi too shortsighted to stir any major trouble. It was said that Zhou Yanbang of the Marquis Ningyuan residence was already seeking a new wife, meaning Jiang Yu'e's life would only worsen. Without the Jiang family's backing, the third branch held no significance in the eyes of the Marquis Ningyuan household.

But for now, Jiang Li had no room to worry about others' affairs—her own were tangled enough.

"Young lady, the Commandery Prince's son and the County Princess have arrived. The Old Madam requests your presence at the Evening Phoenix Hall," Mingyue announced as she entered.

"Alright," Jiang Li replied while Tong'er finished securing her hairpin. The girl in the mirror was delicate and lovely, with clear features, yet her eyes held little joy.

Tong'er sighed softly, feeling sorry for her young mistress. Jiang Li clearly favored Duke Su—in terms of appearance and status, he was no less than the Commandery Prince's son, perhaps even superior. Though his reputation was questionable, he had never harmed Jiang Li during their long acquaintance and had even helped her numerous times.What's going on with Old Madam Jiang and Jiang Yuanbai? They considered Young Master Yin as a son-in-law, but why didn't they think of Duke Su as one? If they were to discuss marriage with the Duke's residence, that would truly be a joyous outcome for all.

(End of Chapter)