The Double

That day, Jiang Li didn't know how she returned to the Jiang residence. It seemed everyone was trying to comfort her, saying Ji Heng would surely return. Though he was currently missing, for some reason, Jiang Li couldn't calm her heart at all. Those comforting words brushed past her ears without offering the slightest solace.

The Jiang family remained unaware of Ji Heng's situation and didn't know what had truly happened to Jiang Li, assuming everything was normal. However, Tong'er and Bai Xue knew the truth. When they brought Jiang Li back, Wenren Yao had specifically instructed the two maids to take good care of Jiang Li, keep her company, and ensure she didn't sink into solitary brooding.

Tong'er and Bai Xue attended to Jiang Li with utmost care. They expected her to cry, grieve alone, or even fall ill. Yet after returning to the Jiang residence, Jiang Li surprisingly grew stronger. She went about her daily routines as if nothing had happened, appearing no different from before on the surface.

But the anxiety and worry in her heart grew heavier with each passing day.

One day passed, two days passed, ten days passed... then a month went by. The waiting became increasingly hopeless, with no news of Ji Heng arriving. Initially, Kong Liu would try to comfort Jiang Li, but later, whenever she went to the Duke's residence to inquire, he could hardly bring himself to look at her. Jiang Li could see the helplessness and sorrow in Kong Liu's eyes.

At first, Situ Jiuyue and the others firmly believed Ji Heng would return. But as time dragged on, longer and longer, until winter arrived in Yanjing City with snowflakes drifting down and thick snow blanketing the ground, and still no news came, even Situ Jiuyue fell silent.

Jiang Li once overheard a conversation between Situ Jiuyue and Kong Liu.

Situ Jiuyue said, "There's still no news of Ji Heng. What's really going on? Is Lu Ji genuinely searching for him?"

"He is. It's winter in Qimin too, with heavy snow sealing the mountains and wild beasts roaming. Lu Ji has been searching nonstop in the mountains these days..." His voice lowered. "When Second Miss Jiang was here earlier, I couldn't bring myself to say it. The captured Yin family soldiers claimed that when our lord escaped, he was severely wounded. Even if he managed to flee, he might not survive. Finding someone in those vast mountains was already extremely difficult. But if our lord were alive, he would have found a way to reunite with Lu Ji and the others. The Qimin mountains are desolate and uninhabited—he couldn't have hidden away."

Situ Jiuyue said coldly, "What are you implying? That Ji Heng is unlikely to make it?"

"I don't wish any harm upon our lord," Kong Liu sounded angered too. "If I had been in the mountains then, I would have protected him with my life! But this is the reality now. I'm just telling you the most likely scenario."

There was a long, long silence before Situ Jiuyue's voice came again, "Life and death are fated. People like us have long grown accustomed to it. No matter how strong Ji Heng is, he's still human. But... if he truly doesn't return, what about Jiang Li?"

"Second Miss Jiang?""Indeed, she's determined to follow Ji Heng. I think if Ji Heng truly doesn't return, she'll keep waiting like this forever. None of us can do anything about it. For her, for Ji Heng, this is the real tragedy."

Standing behind the bushes, Jiang Li listened to Situ Jiuyue's cruel words, an involuntary sadness rising in her heart. Even Situ Jiuyue thought this was a tragedy? Was her meeting with Ji Heng destined to end badly?

Would Ji Heng really not return? She thought in a daze, the news felt so uncertain, so unreal. What came to her mind instead were memories of Ji Heng in all his different forms. Ji Heng smiling as he listened to opera in the tavern, Ji Heng matching wits with her at every turn, Ji Heng showing helplessness toward her, gentle Ji Heng, and that first meeting during the spring night, on the other side of the wall.

Their lives, entangled through two lifetimes, bound so deeply - and now at this critical moment, they were to be separated? To sever their past connection? Jiang Li's gaze grew determined. She would never agree. Even if she stood alone, she would maintain their bond. In Jiang Li's life, there would never be another Ji Heng. Even if Ji Heng were gone, no one could ever take his place.

Jiang Li didn't listen further, turning to leave.

...

The winter in Yanjing City this year was particularly cold. The wind blowing through the windows felt like it could pierce straight to the bone. After struggling for survival for some time, the remaining Yin family troops finally couldn't hold out any longer and surrendered completely. With Yin Zhili dead, those left couldn't amount to much. The Jinwu Army achieved a great victory, and their name, silent for many years, became prominent once again.

But this war wasn't as easy as people imagined. Only those who truly experienced it knew the cruelty of battle. The Yin family troops suffered, but the Jinwu Army also suffered heavy casualties. Most importantly, Ji Heng, who led the Jinwu Army, was likely killed in battle.

When the people of Yanjing City heard this news, they all sighed with regret. The previous rumors about Duke Su instantly dissipated with his death. Instead, his past personality and beauty added a touch of tragic beauty to his life. Storytellers in taverns began telling tales of Duke Su, and in those stories, Ji Heng transformed from his previous dark reputation into someone selfless, brave, and generous.

People were always like this, understanding things based only on what they saw with their own eyes, as if they deeply understood the truth. While rumors about Ji Heng spread through streets and alleys, Jiang Li was also dragged into the discussions. They said Second Miss Jiang was ill-fated - first engaged to Zhou Yanbang of Marquis Ningyuan's household, only to have her younger sister take the marriage. Now engaged to Ji Heng, only for him to die in battle. Some pitied her, some mocked her, while others spread rumors that perhaps Second Miss Jiang was destined to be alone, since every engagement came to nothing. If she had a husband-killing fate, they said, she should shave her head and become a nun early, so as not to bring misfortune to others.Rumors in the capital were spreading like wildfire, and the Jiang family had heard them too. Jiang Yuanbai came to question Jiang Li, which was quite unprecedented. He said, "Xiao Li, you must have heard the rumors outside. Staying in Yanjing City any longer will only harm your reputation. Now that your second uncle and I have resigned from our posts, we will soon take Youyao to Yongzhou for treatment. If you don’t wish to remain in Yanjing City, we can set off earlier and leave this place."

There was a hint of genuine concern in his words. Jiang Yuanbai knew that Jiang Li had likely truly loved Ji Heng, and his death had been a devastating blow to her. The gossip from others was like adding frost to snow. Jiang Li had already learned how much rumors could hurt a person many years ago. He had already failed her once and could not bear to see her suffer unjust accusations again for something that was not her fault. If escaping was a solution, there was no shame in it.

"Thank you, Father," Jiang Li replied. "I have no intention of leaving Yanjing City. I will stay here and wait for Ji Heng to return."

Jiang Yuanbai frowned. "He is already dead."

"But we haven’t seen his body, have we?" Jiang Li smiled faintly and said calmly, "It’s not certain that he’s dead. Others may not want to continue searching, but I believe he is still alive. He hasn’t fulfilled the promises he made to me. Until our agreement is honored, I will wait here for his return."

In Jiang Li’s heart, Ji Heng, from the very beginning to the end, from his harshness to his tenderness, had one trait that never changed: he always kept his promises and honored his commitments. This was evident from the very first time they had struck a deal.

She believed that this time, Ji Heng would return as well. Everyone had heard the story of Weisheng, who clung to a pillar and drowned while waiting for his beloved. Others might think her foolish, falling into the same trap twice. But the sea of love was vast and bitter. Weisheng may have been foolish, but in the end, wasn’t his devotion voluntary?

Her wait for Ji Heng was the same.

Jiang Yuanbai gazed at Jiang Li for a long time and finally let out a deep sigh. It seemed he had conceded, completely and utterly. "Since that’s the case, you may stay in Yanjing City."

He truly had no way to persuade her otherwise. The determination and stubbornness in Jiang Li’s eyes at that moment moved him deeply. It felt as though persuading her to give up her wait would be an unforgivable sin.

He was at a loss.

…

On the tenth day of the twelfth month, it was the day for the Jinwu Army to return to the capital. Along the road back to the city, commoners lined the streets, cheering enthusiastically. Many soldiers had died on the battlefield, forever buried beneath the yellow earth. Those who returned alive became heroes, deserving of the honor they had earned.

Jiang Li stood among the onlookers, watching the long procession, her heart filled with anticipation. She hoped to see a familiar figure in red appear at the end of the line, that Ji Heng would walk over with his usual carefree smile, as nonchalant as ever.

She waited from the first person in the procession to the last, but Ji Heng’s figure never appeared. Her eyes finally dimmed with disappointment. No miracle had occurred. He truly had not returned, at least not now.

Tong’er looked at her with concern and asked, "Miss, are you alright?"

Jiang Li shook her head. "It’s nothing. Let’s go to the Duke’s residence."Today, Lu Ji should have returned. Only he would know the clearest details about Ji Heng's situation. Jiang Li wanted to see Lu Ji, hoping to learn what had truly happened that day.

Tong'er and Bai Xue exchanged glances, neither wishing for Jiang Li to visit the Duke's residence now, fearing it would stir painful memories. But Jiang Li was resolute, and they had no choice but to accompany her.

Upon arriving at the Duke's residence, the entrance was eerily quiet. Had Ji Heng returned today, the place would surely have been bustling. Jiang Li greeted the gatekeeper and entered, walking into the courtyard where she unexpectedly saw Zhao Ke and Wen Ji after nearly a year.

Zhao Ke spotted Jiang Li first and greeted her, "Second Miss."

Jiang Li approached them. Both Zhao Ke and Wen Ji looked considerably haggard, with fresh scars marring Wen Ji's face—evidence of fierce battles on the front lines. Zhao Ke avoided meeting Jiang Li's gaze and remained silent, so she asked directly, "Ji Heng... truly didn't return?"

Wen Ji shook his head gently, his tone tinged with despair. "I failed to protect him."

"What exactly happened that day?" Jiang Li pressed. "I've only heard fragments from others, and I doubt they're entirely accurate. Since you were with him, you must know the full truth."

"While engaging Yin Zhili, the Marshal's old injury flared up. Yin Zhili's lieutenant struck the same spot, weakening him severely. The Marshal pursued Yin Zhili alone, and we lost track of him. Later... when we interrogated the captives, they claimed he had escaped but was gravely wounded and couldn't have gone far. We searched the area extensively but found no trace. Master Lu ordered a mountain sweep, yet there was no sign... until... until..."

Wen Ji, usually straightforward, hesitated, stumbling over his words. Jiang Li's heart tightened, and she urged, "Until what?"

Wen Ji glanced at her, then drew an object from his sleeve and laid it on his palm. It was a butterfly fan pendant—shattered, leaving only half of its bare wing, the red jade clearly fractured.

Trembling, Jiang Li reached out and took the butterfly. The familiar pendant, once beautiful, now lay broken, never to dance gracefully with that exquisite fan again.

"We found this in the mountains," Wen Ji continued, his voice choking. "Master Lu recognized it as the Marshal's pendant and had us search the area. We found... we found..." The stalwart man's words faltered, "We found the Marshal's armor and garments, stained with blood... By then, much time had passed. The soldiers speculated that he might have been... devoured by wild beasts."

Darkness clouded Jiang Li's vision, and she nearly fainted. Tong'er cried out in alarm, steadying her. Jiang Li saw nothing but a vision of blood-soaked red armor in the deep mountains, spreading gruesome stains on the ground. The prophecy, curse-like, echoed in her ears: "Disaster brought by a woman, exposed corpse in the wilderness, prey to eagles and hounds."

It had all come true.

Jiang Li murmured, "I caused his death."

Tong'er anxiously replied, "Miss, this isn't your fault. Don't blame yourself for everything.""No, it's my fault. I caused him to encounter this calamity. If Yin Zhili hadn't used me as bait to lure him into the trap that day, he wouldn't have been injured... I harmed him." She closed her eyes in anguish, tears streaming down her face.

"Lord never thought that way," Zhao Ke said. "Second Miss Jiang, you are the most important person to him. Please don't torment yourself."

Having followed Ji Heng for so many years, they were more like sworn brothers than master and servants. Though equally heartbroken by Ji Heng's departure, they couldn't blame Jiang Li. Ultimately, it was fate's cruel joke - why did Ji Heng's old illness have to recur at that precise moment?

"Before the expedition, Lord mentioned that if he didn't return... the Duke's residence should be entrusted to Second Miss. Whether you wish to sell it off, maintain it, or do anything else - everything is yours to decide. Lord had no relatives in Yanjing City. You were his final concern, and everything he could leave behind would be given to you."

Jiang Li smiled bitterly. What was this? Arranging all his possessions before death? Should she praise Ji Heng for his foresight, for making preparations in advance? Probably those people in Yanjing City would start envying her again. Even in death, Ji Heng had left her such enormous wealth. But heaven knew she would rather trade all her possessions for Ji Heng's safe return. She wished his arrangements would never come to fruition, for that would mean she still had the chance to wait for his return, for the day he would fulfill his promises.

"What are your plans for the future, Second Miss?" Zhao Ke asked softly. "Lord said that if he were gone, you would be our master. Whatever arrangements you have for us, you have full authority."

Jiang Li composed herself. The grief in her heart nearly overwhelmed her, but she knew this wasn't the time for solitary mourning. Many matters remained unresolved - Ji Heng's former enemies would seize this opportunity to devour the Duke's residence completely. Regarding the title and other matters, Hongxiao Emperor might remember Ji Heng's loyalty and protect his legacy, but no one could say how long an emperor's trust would last. Most importantly, those opponents would stop at nothing to achieve their goals, including manipulating the circumstances of Ji Heng's death.

She couldn't assist Ji Heng on the battlefield, but here in Yanjing City, she must exhaust every effort to protect the Duke's residence. Even if there were no longer any of Ji Heng's relatives in this mansion, this was the estate where he had grown up. She couldn't stand by and watch it be taken away.

"I have no plans. I don't intend to go anywhere, and the things you worry about won't happen." Jiang Li clenched her fists tightly - only this could prevent her tears from flowing uncontrollably, only this could keep her from completely breaking down. She declared: "I will find a way to complete the wedding ceremony. Even if I stand alone, I will remain here to guard this place. I ask you to join me in protecting Ji Heng's home."

With sorrowful determination, she added: "This was his only home."

Wen Ji and Zhao Ke exchanged glances, then knelt on one knee to pay respects to Jiang Li - the salute between master and servants. They seemed to have completely set their minds at ease, placing their full trust in Jiang Li as they respectfully responded: "Yes, my lady."...

In the imperial palace, the Hongxiao Emperor arrived at the cold palace where the Empress Dowager resided.

The bitter cold was bone-chilling, with not even a single stove lit inside. Upon entering, one felt as though their entire body was immersed in ice. The courtyard grew increasingly lifeless, with long eaves allowing only a faint sliver of daylight to penetrate. Walking through it felt like being in a prison.

And indeed, it was a prison.

Eunuch Su stood to the side, carefully instructing the guards to carry over a rosewood chest. He opened the door for the Hongxiao Emperor and had the chest carried inside.

A foul odor wafted from the room, causing even Eunuch Su to wrinkle his nose involuntarily. The Hongxiao Emperor’s gaze flickered slightly as he ordered someone to light a lamp. The room was pitch black, its curtains drawn tightly shut, making it impossible to see anything. Only when the faint lamplight illuminated the space did everyone finally see what was inside.

Curled up at the foot of the bed was a person, wrapped in a cotton quilt. The floor was covered in stains, perhaps even traces of blood. She seemed to be extremely sensitive to light, for as soon as the brightness reached her, she quickly withdrew her head. It wasn’t until the Hongxiao Emperor called out, "Lin Roujia," that she lifted her head, her gaze dazed as she looked at him. The Hongxiao Emperor was slightly taken aback.

He knew this woman to be ruthless and resolute. When he had first thrown her here, no matter how dire the conditions, she had remained unyielding. She had maintained her haughty air as the Empress Dowager, even keeping herself impeccably groomed, as proud as she had always been. The Hongxiao Emperor had been infuriated, even contemplating other methods to torment the Empress Dowager. Merely hoping she would feel the pain of regret and guilt seemed impossible—she was far too selfish.

However, ever since Jiang Li had visited Lin Roujia in the palace last time, things had changed. The guards outside reported that the Empress Dowager had suddenly become despondent, even attempting to take her own life with shards of a mirror on several occasions. The Hongxiao Emperor had ordered her to be closely watched, ensuring she could not die immediately. Those who observed her said the Empress Dowager was now a completely different person, as if something she had always believed in had collapsed, leaving her with no strength to carry on. Every day, she appeared to be in agony. When she was lucid, she did only one thing—seek death.

The Hongxiao Emperor had removed all objects from the room that the Empress Dowager could use to end her life. Thus, she was trapped in a state where she could neither live nor die.

"Your Maj..." Lin Roujia murmured. She could barely recognize the emperor’s face. In the dim lamplight, the frail youth who had once needed to curry favor with her had grown into a tall, imposing ruler—unfathomable in his thoughts and decisive in his actions, which was why he had imprisoned her here without hesitation.

Indeed, no one in the royal family who managed to ascend to the throne was soft-hearted or merciful.

Lin Roujia briefly regained her clarity. No matter what, she refused to appear inferior in front of the Hongxiao Emperor. Just as she was about to utter a few sarcastic remarks, her gaze suddenly fell upon the large rosewood chest. For some reason, her eyes were drawn to it, unable to look away, as if it contained some priceless treasure that captivated her entirely.

The Hongxiao Emperor followed her gaze and smiled. "Today, I have come to present you with a gift," he said, waving his hand. "Guards, open the chest."

Two guards stepped forward, pushed the chest in front of Lin Roujia, and opened it.

Lin Roujia peered inside.Inside the rosewood box, a golden velvet cloth was laid out as if it held a precious gift. Yet upon the velvet lay two severed heads side by side, their necks dripping with fresh blood, while the faces had been meticulously cleaned, making the features perfectly recognizable. One was Yin Zhan, the other Yin Zhili.

When the Empress Dowager clearly saw the two before her, she let out a piercing scream of "No—" and lunged forward, scooping the heads out and clutching them to her chest. Though separated from their bodies and beyond any hope of life, she wailed as if still believing she could save them, crying out, "A-Zhan! Zhili!"

Unfortunately, neither Yin Zhan nor Yin Zhili could respond to her weeping anymore, their eyes tightly shut.

"The Yin family has been defeated, the Jinwu Army has returned triumphant—these are the spoils of war. I thought that since you were once the Empress Dowager of this nation, you should share in such joyous national news. That’s why I specifically brought them for you to see. How is it?" the Hongxiao Emperor said with a smile, his words gritted through clenched teeth.

He had finally witnessed the Empress Dowager weeping bitterly, consumed by regret. This woman, whose heart was as hard as iron, had always remained cold and indifferent no matter what happened. The Hongxiao Emperor was human too; he too harbored a desire for revenge. The Empress Dowager had caused Consort Xia’s untimely death and cast a shadow over his youth. He had long wished to make her taste the bitterness of pain.

And Lin Rongjia had likely truly loved Yin Zhan. She cradled his head in her arms, unbothered by the foul odor or the horror of the scene, holding him tightly as if afraid someone would snatch him away. She even kissed Yin Zhan’s cold lips, sobbing as she pleaded, "Ah Zhan... Ah Zhan... don’t leave me behind..."

This ghastly scene sent chills down the spines of all who witnessed it. As Lin Rongjia wept, she suddenly cried out, "Your Majesty, kill me!"

"Oh?" The Hongxiao Emperor raised an eyebrow. "Why should I kill you?"

"It was I who harmed your mother back then. I also caused the deaths of Yu Hongye and Ji Mínghán. I bear deep hatred toward all of you. I beg you, let me die!" The Empress Dowager wept uncontrollably, tears and mucus streaming down her face, a far cry from her composed, detached demeanor in the Buddhist hall. Her heart was truly broken—Yin Zhan was dead, Yin Zhili was dead. The only two people she had ever loved and cared for in this world were gone. What meaning was there in living? There would be no chance of redemption, only endless torment in this living hell, day after day.

How could she be separated from Yin Zhan? Even death could not part them.

The Empress Dowager kowtowed repeatedly to the emperor—something that would have been unthinkable in the past. In those days, she had always held herself high, tormenting the young emperor with veiled insults and sharp words.

The Hongxiao Emperor watched her coldly and suddenly remarked, "The second young lady of the Jiang family also entrusted me with a gift for you."

Eunuch Su took something from his sleeve and approached Lin Rongjia with a smile, placing the object before her. Lin Rongjia stared blankly for a moment, then let out a sharp cry, alternating between hysterical laughter and heart-wrenching sobs.

In Eunuch Su’s hand was a bronze mirror. It clearly reflected Lin Rongjia’s disheveled, unrecognizable appearance. The Hongxiao Emperor said indifferently, "Lin Rongjia, with such ugliness, how could Yin Zhan possibly recognize you in the afterlife? In my opinion, you should live on and spare Yin Zhan the disgrace."

The mockery was utterly venomous. Lin Rongjia suddenly clawed at her own face. With no one to trim her nails during these days, they had grown long and sharp. The scratches immediately drew blood, but she seemed oblivious to the pain, her face soon becoming a bloody, mangled mess.

The Hongxiao Emperor turned away as if he could no longer bear to look at her, his voice filled with disgust as he ordered, "Keep a close watch on her. Make sure she doesn’t die." With that, he walked out of the room.Eunuch Su followed closely behind as the door was shut, from behind which faint, maddened cries of a woman—somewhere between weeping and laughter—could be heard.

It was only after they had walked far, reaching the imperial garden, that the sounds behind them faded entirely. The Hongxiao Emperor gazed into the distance and let out a soft sigh.

His inner turmoil was finally resolved. Even if the emperor’s actions seemed less than magnanimous, the unresolved burdens from his youth would have haunted him for life. From now on, he could truly settle into his role as the ruler of Northern Yan. As for the timid, obsequious boy of the past, he would vanish from memory, never to return.

Eunuch Su handed the warming brazier to the emperor. As warmth spread through his palms, the Hongxiao Emperor recalled the message Jiang Li had sent through Ye Shijie, and he couldn’t help but feel a wry amusement. The world spoke of Second Miss Jiang as gentle and kind-hearted, yet few knew that when facing her enemies, she showed no mercy. She clearly understood Lin Roujia’s weaknesses and struck precisely where it hurt most. That mirror became the final straw that broke the camel’s back—Lin Roujia would never escape her torment.

Thinking of Jiang Li, the emperor’s thoughts turned to Ji Heng. He sighed deeply, his eyes filled with profound regret.

Though arduous, this war had been won decisively. For Ji Heng’s first command, such an outcome was truly worthy of his father’s legacy. Northern Yan had first weathered the turmoil of Prince Cheng, then the incident with Yin Zhan, leaving the court and the people unsettled. While the emperor could employ tactics to win back their trust, it would have been far better if Ji Heng were here. Even now, Ji Heng remained the one he trusted most.

But Ji Heng would not return.

The garden wind was bitingly cold, and the flowerbeds no longer held the lush vibrancy of spring. Everyone understood the principle that what flourishes must eventually decline, yet facing it in reality was unbearably difficult.

Eunuch Su draped a cloak over the emperor’s shoulders and murmured softly, "The wind is strong outside, Your Majesty. Please take care of your health."

Life had its rises and falls. For Ji Heng, his rise had been arduous, and his fall tragically poignant—a source of deep regret for all. A trace of sorrow flickered in the Hongxiao Emperor’s eyes, but the path of a ruler was inherently solitary. Whether now or later, he would have to face the coming storms alone and maintain control over the situation. Otherwise, he would betray all that had been sacrificed to reach this point.

He turned and said quietly, "Let’s return."

Their figures gradually faded into the depths of the imperial garden.

…

The news of Ji Heng’s death in battle was known throughout the land, yet no grave was erected. With no body to bury, and Jiang Li unwilling to establish a cenotaph, it was as if doing so would shatter the last vestige of hope within her.

The Golden Crow General, Ji Mínghán, had been missing for years but had actually died in the Duke’s residence three years prior. Ji Heng seemed to have followed in his father’s footsteps, sharing a similar fate. Yet, it remained unknown whether he might still be alive. Jiang Li knew the hope of Ji Heng’s survival was slim; everyone hinted that she should accept the truth.

Lu Ji and Wenren Yao held onto the hope that Ji Heng might be alive. They searched Qimin repeatedly, but aside from a broken butterfly fan pendant, they found nothing.He was like a spirit emerging from the darkness, never truly belonging to the mortal realm, now returning to the void. He left only a breathtaking silhouette for those who had seen him, making them wonder if they had merely dreamed a vivid, colorful dream.

In the depths of winter, as the Jinwu Army returned triumphant to the capital and the Hongxiao Emperor began a thorough purge of the court, the Jiang family prepared to leave Yanjing City.

With both Jiang brothers having resigned from their official posts, there was little reason to remain in Yanjing City. Staying longer might only arouse suspicion in the young emperor’s heart. Jiang Yuanbai, ever pragmatic, had already arranged for a residence to be purchased in Yongzhou and planned to relocate the entire family there. Yongzhou also had skilled physicians who might be able to treat Jiang Youyao.

Jiang Jingyou naturally raised no objections, while Jiang Jingrui, having heard that Yongzhou offered many amusements, was already eagerly looking forward to the move. However, among the Jiang family members, only one person was unwilling to go to Yongzhou—Jiang Li.

In the Evening Phoenix Hall, only Old Madam Jiang and Jiang Yuanbai were present. Old Madam Jiang gazed at Jiang Li in prolonged silence before finally speaking, "Second girl, are you truly determined to stay in Yanjing City?"

"Yes, Grandmother." In truth, Jiang Li had hinted at this many times to Jiang Yuanbai, but the Jiang family always seemed to regard it as mere caprice. Perhaps they believed she would eventually change her mind, so Jiang Li patiently repeated her answer again and again.

"Second girl, in the past when you spoke like this, I did not oppose you. As long as Duke Su returned to the capital, it was natural for you to enter his household. But now, Duke Su can no longer return." She looked at Jiang Li with pity. "If you persist in this delusion, you will only bring hardship upon yourself in the future."

"What hardship does Grandmother mean?"

Old Madam Jiang sighed. "If you remain in Yanjing City, you may never marry in this lifetime. You are young now and do not feel the weight of passing years. But in the future, when you see other young ladies becoming wives and mothers early on, will you still choose to remain alone, guarding the Duke’s residence? Our Jiang family may not be ungrateful, but this world is already harsh on women. If you choose this path, your entire life may be filled with hardship and loneliness. Second girl, you are a descendant of the Jiang family, a young lady of the Jiang house. Our family has lost everything now, so there is no need to cling to appearances. Even if it means bearing the stigma of ingratitude, as long as it lightens your burden, we do not care."

Since returning to the Jiang residence, Jiang Li had come to understand Old Madam Jiang as a stern, shrewd woman who valued reputation highly. In some ways, she embodied the integrity of the late Master Jiang, yet in others, she resembled Jiang Yuanbai in her tendency to prioritize advantage and avoid harm. This time was no different. Jiang Li knew that Old Madam Jiang’s words were partly sincere, spoken out of concern for her. She likely believed that Jiang Li, still young, could remarry without difficulty. With the Duke’s household gone, there would be no one to protect her in the future. The wealth and treasures of the Duke’s residence were like a child hoarding gold—bound to attract covetous eyes. If disputes arose over them, Jiang Li, alone, would find it difficult to defend what remained.But Jiang Li merely smiled and said, "Grandmother, I understand the reasoning behind your words. However, Duke Su and I had an agreement—I should wait for his return. If he cannot return, I must protect what belongs to him and not let others take it away. Ji Heng has no family left in this world. If I do not guard his legacy, no one will. I know you are concerned for me, but from a public perspective, as a descendant of the Jiang family, I should not bring shame upon it. If I were to commit such an act of betrayal, how could I face the ancestors of the Jiang family in the afterlife years from now? Privately, I would be failing Duke Su’s trust and sincerity."

"Moreover," she turned to Jiang Yuanbai, "the Emperor’s stance in this matter is truly thought-provoking."

Jiang Yuanbai was taken aback.

"The Emperor values Duke Su greatly. The fact that Duke Su cannot return now only deepens the Emperor’s regret and trust. If the Jiang family were to act in such a manner at this critical juncture, I fear it would displease the Emperor. Father, you may resign from your official post now to ensure the Jiang family’s safe retreat, but what about years from now, a century later? The descendants of the Jiang family may very well return to Yanjing City. If, because of my actions, they face difficulties then, it would truly be a case of gaining little at great cost. I am willing to sacrifice myself alone for the potential smooth path of the Jiang family in the future. By achieving a reputation of virtue, at the very least, when Yanjing City speaks of the Jiang family, it will not tarnish our name. The Jiang family will remain the honorable and upright household it has always been, isn’t that right?"

Jiang Li’s words sounded lofty and righteous, but she herself knew that these were merely excuses. The excuses were all false; the only real reason was that she wanted to wait for Ji Heng.

Life is long—long enough to encounter countless people. Yet life is also brief—so brief that after meeting Ji Heng, she knew she would never again encounter someone like him, someone she loved.

But she would not seek death. Whether as Xue Fangfei or Jiang Li, she would never take her own life. The person Ji Heng knew would never abandon her life under any circumstances. She would remain here, guarding everything in the Duke’s residence, never breaking her promise.

Old Madam Jiang fell silent. It was not because Jiang Li’s words had enlightened her—though they were reasonable—but more importantly, Jiang Li was not one to argue or defend herself. In many matters, she would listen, agree, and let it be. Just as in the matter of Yin Zhili, her likes and dislikes were straightforward. But today, she had spoken at length to justify staying in Yanjing City. It was clear she genuinely wished to remain, not because circumstances forced her.

"Forget it," Jiang Yuanbai spoke slowly. "Since you wish to stay in Yanjing City, then stay. Xiao Li, you are a clever girl. You must have already considered what the Old Madam said. Yet you persist, which shows your resolve is firm. Neither I nor the Old Madam can dissuade you. In the past, I failed you and your mother. Now, do as you wish. However, if you ever change your mind and no longer wish to persist, you are always welcome in Yongzhou. You will still be a young lady of the Jiang family."Perhaps when it comes to farewells, people tend to view everything with detachment. Jiang Yuanbai rarely spoke so candidly. Jiang Li smiled and said, "I understand, Father. I also hope everything goes well for you in Yongzhou, and that the Jiang family prospers."

There was no joy on Jiang Yuanbai's face, only a trace of sorrow. He had three daughters—one dead, one leaving, and the only one left by his side was the mad Jiang Youyao. Once, he thought he was at the peak of his life, with a smooth official career, believing such glory would last forever. But in the end, nothing remained.

For a moment, he truly believed in the concept of "karma." How he had treated Ye Zhenzhen and Jiang Li in the past had now come back to haunt him. Even if he wanted to make amends, the past was gone and could not be undone. Some things could not be erased in just a day or two.

It was all the bitter fruit of his own making.

Jiang Yuanbai said nothing more, only adding, "We will leave in half a month. The Jiang residence will likely be sold. If you wish to move to the Ye family or the Duke's residence, you should start preparing in the next few days."

Jiang Li nodded. "Alright, Father."

...

After Jiang Yuanbai mentioned their departure that day, Jiang Li truly began planning her "move." But once she started packing, she realized how pitifully few belongings she had in the Jiang residence. Apart from some clothes and jewelry, there were only books. Since moving into Fragrant Garden Courtyard, Jiang Li had never been like Jiang Youyao or Ji Shuran, who enjoyed filling their rooms and courtyards with vases and ornaments. Thus, everything she owned could be packed into just a few simple trunks. Bai Xue, Tong'er, Qingfeng, and Mingyue would follow Jiang Li, but aside from them, no one else in the Jiang family was willing to go with her. Jiang Yuanbai had dismissed most of the servants, keeping only those who had served him for many years. When Jiang Jingrui learned that Jiang Li would not be leaving with them, he expressed great regret and stubbornly told her that one day she would surely regret it and not to come crying to Yongzhou to find them.

Jiang Li merely smiled and did not respond.

The news of the Jiang family's departure from the capital indeed caused quite a stir in Yanjing City. Many were curious about Jiang Li's reaction—if she left with the Jiang family, it would be seen as ingratitude and utterly dishonorable. When word spread that Jiang Li would not be leaving but staying behind, some praised her as a daughter of the Jiang family with integrity, while others accused her of seeking fame and putting on a show. Still more felt pity for Jiang Li, sympathizing with her future fate. A young woman in her prime, henceforth living alone and widowed at such a tender age—even if she were the daughter of a Grand Secretary, let alone an ordinary family, people would sigh and call her life tragic.

No matter what choice Jiang Li made, there were always gossips ready to comment. Every time Tong'er went out and heard these rumors, she would angrily argue with people. Jiang Li, however, paid little mind to it. Since she could not control everyone's opinions, she focused on managing herself.

In half a month, the Jiang family would depart.Early in the morning, Jiang Li rose at dawn. As this was their final day in Yanjing, the Jiang family gathered for breakfast together. Since Jiang Li had returned to the Jiang residence, this was the first time she had shared a morning meal with the entire family. The nanny instructed the maids to seat Jiang Youyao to the side and feed her. Jiang Youyao still stared blankly ahead, mechanically swallowing the food in her mouth—she now appeared far more endearing than in her former domineering days.

Though this was their last family meal, everyone ate in silence. For the Jiang family, leaving this place meant leaving their homeland. To be uprooted at such an age, while not driven by poverty, was hardly by choice. Had so many events not transpired, who would wish to depart?

The breakfast felt exceptionally drawn-out. Everyone ate with deliberate slowness; even the usually boisterous Jiang Jingrui became refined in his manners. It was as if they hoped this meal could stretch into eternity, never to end.

But no feast in this world lasts forever, and eventually, the meal came to a close. After breakfast, Jiang Li was to see the Jiang family off at the city gate. In the carriage, Old Madam Jiang unexpectedly reminisced with Jiang Li about childhood days—naturally, all from before Jiang Li was sent to Qingcheng Mountain. There was a touch of nostalgia in the old madam's words, but unfortunately, the present Jiang Li was not the true Second Miss Jiang and held none of her memories. Those bygone days did not belong to her. Listening, Jiang Li felt only regret—if only the real Second Miss Jiang were here. Yet, those who leave never return, which is why one ought to cherish those still present.

Upon reaching the city gate, Jiang Li alighted from the carriage. The Jiang family disembarked as well. Jiang Jingrui looked at Jiang Li and, still unwilling to give up, said, "Are you really sure? It's not too late to change your mind. Just say you want to go to Yongzhou with us, and we'll forget about those things. Staying alone in Yanjing City won't be any fun."

Lu Shi seemed to want to add a few words of persuasion, but likely recalling Jiang Yuanping's prior instructions, she ultimately remained silent.

"Have fun in Yongzhou," Jiang Li replied with a gentle smile. "Perhaps someday I'll have the chance to visit Yongzhou too, and I'll need you to show me around then."

Jiang Jingrui scoffed under his breath, muttering, "So stubborn."

Jiang Li merely smiled without retorting. She still remembered her first encounter with Jiang Jingrui. While the rest of the Jiang family regarded Second Miss Jiang with cold indifference and hostility, this young man, though rough around the edges, had never looked at her with the wary, alienating gaze of others. Gazing at Jiang Jingrui, she often thought of Xue Zhao. Second Miss Jiang and Jiang Jingrui were close in age, yet Xue Fangfei was older than Jiang Jingrui.

Jiang Yuanbai turned to Jiang Li, his expression complex, and finally just patted her shoulder, saying, "Take good care of yourself."

"You as well, Father," Jiang Li replied sincerely. "The weather is turning cold; dress warmly and avoid catching a chill."Jiang Yuanbai wasn't exactly a bad person, but when it came to matters concerning Second Miss Jiang, he had been far too muddle-headed. Had it not been for his inability to distinguish right from wrong, Second Miss Jiang wouldn't have met her untimely demise at such a young age. Because of this, Jiang Li could never bring herself to be as close to Jiang Yuanbai as she was with the Ye family. It felt as though doing so would betray the memory of the departed Second Miss Jiang. Yet when the moment of parting arrived, all past grievances and entanglements suddenly seemed to vanish like smoke, as if all debts had been settled.

Just like that.

Jiang Yuanbai and Old Madam Jiang reboarded the carriage. Lu Shi and the others waved their farewells to Jiang Li from the carriage windows. Jiang Li stood at the city gate, watching the line of carriages gradually disappear into the distance.

Tong'er and Bai Xue stood behind her, both maidservants feeling rather sorrowful. Jiang Li suddenly felt a sense of desolation too - regardless of everything, these were her nominal family members, and from now on, they would be separated. In this lifetime, she didn't know if there would ever be another chance to meet again.

Partings were ultimately hard to bear. In this moment, she understood how Ji Heng must have felt back then - watching family members leave one after another, until finally he was the only one left.

Jiang Li turned around, then froze. In the heavy snow of December, standing not far away in the wind and snow were Xue Huaiyuan, with Situ Jiuyue pushing Xue Zhao's wheelchair while holding an umbrella. They were looking at her with concern, right behind her where she could see them the moment she turned.

Jiang Li was startled at first, then slowly, very slowly, began to smile.

Perhaps she had never been alone. The feeling of having someone waiting behind her was so wonderful—how could she let Ji Heng turn around and find no one there?

She wanted to be the one waiting behind others too.

The final chapter will be updated later tomorrow, tentatively scheduled for 8 PM. Stay tuned~

(End of Chapter)