The Princess Royal

Реi Wеnхuan was сhоkеd bу Li Rоng's actions. Аftеr a momеnt of silenсе, hе finаllу sаid, "My hеart may be small, but yоur skin isn't thin еither."

Нe turnеd his fасе awау, hоlding thе lаntern аs he leisurelу wаlked аhead. "You'rе not yоung anymоrе. Su Rоngqing is in thе рrimе оf his youth nоw—dоn't think abоut аn оld cоw eаting tеnder grass."

Li Rоng rеmainеd silent. Pei Wеnxuan laughеd. "Whаt, уou'rе not hapру bеing cаllеd оld?"

"I'm оld, but аrеn't yоu оld toо?" Li Rong glаred at Рei Wеnхuаn, then turnеd аwау, saying lightly, "I just think уour heart is too tаinted and don't wаnt to bothеr with yоu."

"Мy hеart is tainted?" Pei Wenxuan sneered. "Do you dare say you don't have that intention?"

"I truly dare," Li Rong explained generously. "The reason for letting Su Rongqing oversee this is because he's suitable. If you and I investigate this case, the court officials won't be convinced. If we let others investigate, they'll either be my uncle's people who will definitely favor the Yang family, or those who won't favor them will likely be unwilling to stir up trouble. Besides Su Rongqing, who else would take on this hot potato now? Since Su Minzhi stepped forward to speak, let his son investigate. That way, others won't dare say anything."

"You certainly have a lot of confidence in him."

Pei Wenxuan unconsciously slowed his pace, speaking coldly. Li Rong walked ahead, hearing his words, and couldn't help but laugh. "Although the Su Clan avoids trouble by staying neutral, they are still a family of noble integrity. Rongqing is a gentleman—once something is in his hands, he won't shy away from it."

"Sounds lofty and righteous," Pei Wenxuan said flatly. "In our previous life, you said the same thing to me."

"Hmm?"

Li Rong was somewhat bewildered. She turned back to see Pei Wenxuan standing still, looking at her calmly. "In our previous life, when you asked me to save Su Rongqing, you also gave me a whole set of grand reasons, saying the Su Clan was wronged, and that if old grievances were brought up later, it wouldn't be good for me or for His Majesty. You said you were saving Su Rongqing for the sake of righteousness, not for anything else, didn't you?"

Li Rong didn't speak. The spring breeze in April was still chilly. Pei Wenxuan looked at her quietly and questioned, "What happened afterward?"

Li Rong remained silent. Seeing Pei Wenxuan's indifferent expression, she couldn't help but laugh. "Is this why you dislike him?"

Pei Wenxuan was taken aback. Li Rong, observing his expression, pressed further, "Because I lied to you?"

Pei Wenxuan sneered but didn't respond, which was a kind of tacit acknowledgment. Li Rong raised her hand to tuck her hair behind her ear and said lightly, "I've said it before—I truly thought that way at the time. Don't you believe me? Then why bring this up now?"

"I'm just reminding you," Pei Wenxuan said coldly, "not to let beauty cloud your judgment. If you fell for him in your previous life and fall for him again in this one, then you're just foolish."

"Even so, what does it have to do with you?" Hearing the reprimanding tone in his voice, Li Rong grew somewhat angry and glared at him coldly. "Anyway, you and I will divorce in a few years. In this life, Lord Pei can rest assured—if I ever kill you, it won't be because someone else provoked me."

Pei Wenxuan didn't speak. He pursed his lips tightly, as if extremely angry.

Li Rong sneered. "We argue every time, and then you end up angry with yourself. You really are..."

"I won't escort you anymore. Go back by yourself." Before Li Rong could finish, Pei Wenxuan finally couldn't hold back. He strode forward, thrust the palace lantern into Li Rong's hands, turned, and walked away.Li Rong hadn't expected that even after being reborn and no longer serving as the Left Minister, Pei Wenxuan could still have such a temper. Holding the lamp, she was momentarily stunned. After taking a few steps, Pei Wenxuan seemed to remember something, turned back, furrowed his brows, and extended his hand, saying, "Give me some men. The Yang family's people will likely try to leave the city tonight."

He might be angry, but when it came to asking for people or money, he never hesitated.

Li Rong laughed in exasperation, took the token, and slapped it into Pei Wenxuan's hand. "Go pick them yourself."

Pei Wenxuan didn't reply. He took the token, turned, and left, heading straight to the Princess's Manor to gather his men.

Li Rong watched Pei Wenxuan's hurried retreating figure, feeling both angry and unsure why she was angry. After he had gone far, she stewed for a while before finally calming down, telling herself it wasn't worth getting upset over someone like him.

Once her emotions settled, she said, "Let's go."

Jing Lan and Jing Mei exchanged a glance before approaching. Jing Mei glanced at Li Rong and whispered, "Why did Young Master Pei leave?"

"He's sick."

Li Rong answered without hesitation. The maids exchanged another look but dared not say more.

Walking in the night breeze, Li Rong felt much better after a while. She said calmly, "Let's return to the palace. We'll see him again tomorrow."

In truth, Pei Wenxuan's dislike for Su Rongqing wasn't a recent development. Even after being reborn, she knew this wouldn't change.

The two had never gotten along from the start. Pei Wenxuan found Su Rongqing pretentious and affected, while Su Rongqing had never spoken ill of Pei Wenxuan. Yet whenever they stood side by side, anyone with eyes could sense an invisible tension between them.

This was the case even before Su Rongqing came to Li Rong's side, and it only intensified afterward. For a long time, it was essentially a situation where if Su Rongqing was present, Pei Wenxuan was absent, and vice versa.

At first, Li Rong had wondered if Pei Wenxuan harbored some affection for her and was acting out of jealousy.

But as time passed, she realized that while Pei Wenxuan's initial hostility toward Su Rongqing might have stemmed from petty jealousy, it eventually became nothing more than resentment.

Su Rongqing had achieved fame at a young age, born into a noble and prestigious family with loving parents. Almost everything good in the world had been given to him. Pei Wenxuan, also a nobleman's son, had endured hardships and struggles. From a young age, he felt envy when facing Su Rongqing.

Later, after finally marrying her and single-handedly upholding his family's reputation, proving himself a capable man, she chose Su Rongqing over him. To Pei Wenxuan, this was a profound humiliation.

Pei Wenxuan wasn't jealous; he simply despised Su Rongqing.

In earlier years, Pei Wenxuan might have held some fondness for her, but that affection had long since faded over time.

Li Rong had always been self-aware. She was never the kind of girl who attracted affection, and her relationship with Pei Wenxuan was one of rivalry and mutual harm as they vied for power. Pei Wenxuan had likely grown thoroughly weary of her long ago.

Still, Pei Wenxuan was a decent man at heart. After spending so much time together and now returning to this life together, he likely felt a sense of shared hardship and pity, which prompted him to propose cooperation.

But deep down, both of them had long since seen through each other's flaws and harbored nothing but disgust.When two people who know each other inside out come to despise one another, it becomes the most dreadful thing imaginable. Because they are all too aware of each other's weaknesses and tactics, every move they make strikes at the heart, and every word or glance can hit the other's most vulnerable spot.

Pouring salt on wounds and piercing the heart with words—these are the things a couple who have worn each other down over a lifetime excel at.

Li Rong leisurely returned to her palace, thinking over the events of the day as she settled in for the night.

Although her Princess's Manor had been built many years ago, she had always lived within the palace. Only the steward of the manor, along with the two thousand guards and various servants Li Ming had assigned to her, were stationed there, serving as part of her estate. Pei Wenxuan took her token, gathered the personnel, and stationed them outside the Yang residence overnight.

As Pei Wenxuan had anticipated, almost all members of the Yang family had evacuated during the night, leaving only the elderly matriarch and a few female relatives behind to maintain appearances. Pei Wenxuan's ambush outside the city was like catching turtles in a jar—he captured them one by one, continuing the operation throughout the night.

Li Rong slept soundly through the night. At dawn, she rose, washed, and dressed, heading early to the entrance of the grand hall. The Morning Court Assembly had not yet begun, and civil and military officials stood outside in small groups, chatting. Li Rong's arrival drew curious glances. While it was not uncommon for princesses of Great Xia to participate in politics, they typically did not attend court unless specially summoned. Thus, her presence sparked speculation about her purpose.

However, the few senior ministers who had witnessed Li Ming's outburst the previous day were not surprised. They stood calmly in place, not even glancing at Li Rong.

Li Rong scanned the crowd but did not find the person she was looking for. After waiting a while, she finally saw Pei Wenxuan walking in, yawning.

Given his rank, a minor official like him would not even be allowed inside the grand hall. Li Rong watched as he walked in, yawning incessantly, and without regard for the surrounding gazes, he came to stand beside her. Tucking his hands into his sleeves, he mumbled, "It's done."

"Did you sleep at all last night?"

Li Rong looked him up and down, noticing the dark circles under his eyes as if he had been punched, and couldn't help but ask, "Did you not sleep again?"

"Thanks to Your Highness," Pei Wenxuan shook himself awake, appearing somewhat more alert as he said clearly, "another sleepless night."

He had barely slept the night before, and yesterday had been another tense day. Reflecting on this cruel reality, Pei Wenxuan couldn't help but add, "If this continues, Your Highness won't even need to lift a finger—I'm afraid I won't last much longer."

Li Rong covered her face with a small fan and chuckled softly. Pei Wenxuan was already accustomed to her finding joy in his misery, so he merely whispered, "Last night, they moved like ants relocating their nest. All those young masters were rounded up. Since they're a family, they should stay together. Shall we present them together today?"

"As you wish," Li Rong replied softly. "We'll discuss it after court."

As they spoke, they saw Su Minzhi leading Su Rongqing into the hall. The Su family enjoyed an excellent reputation at court, and their entrance immediately drew everyone's attention. Su Rongqing followed his father, greeting those around him before taking his place at the front.

As soon as Su Rongqing entered, everyone couldn't help but look his way, and Li Rong was no exception. Noticing Li Rong watching Su Rongqing as he walked past, Pei Wenxuan subtly moved closer to her and whispered, "Let me remind you, don't say anything reckless just because you see him. His stance is still unclear."As they were speaking, Su Rongqing glanced over. From a distance, he spotted Li Rong, paused briefly in surprise, then smiled and bowed in her direction.

Li Rong nodded in return. Beside her, Pei Wenxuan let out a soft scoff. Li Rong ignored him, not wanting to start another argument. The two stood side by side at the edge of the square as the eunuch’s voice rang out, announcing the court assembly. The officials formed two lines and slowly filed inside to the sound of ceremonial chants.

Neither Li Rong nor Pei Wenxuan held official positions that allowed them to enter the court hall, so they waited outside the door for Li Ming’s summons.

Pei Wenxuan, feeling drowsy, simply closed his eyes and muttered, “I’m going to sleep for a bit. Wake me if something happens.”

Without waiting for Li Rong’s response, he leaned against the wall and promptly fell asleep.

The area outside the main hall was quiet and empty, in stark contrast to the lively commotion inside. The chatter of the court officials, a jumble of voices, served as an excellent lullaby for Pei Wenxuan.

He had been leaning against the wall while standing, but once asleep, he lost control of his posture and began to tilt toward Li Rong.

Li Rong, lost in thought, felt Pei Wenxuan gradually leaning closer. He seemed to sense the imbalance and suddenly jolted awake, hurriedly straightening up.

Seeing him so exhausted, Li Rong couldn’t help but express her disdain. “Are you really that tired?”

“You try it,” Pei Wenxuan snapped, irritable from lack of sleep. Li Rong chuckled. “Pei Wenxuan, you’re so delicate.”

“And who am I doing this for?”

Pei Wenxuan retorted instantly, then froze, as if embarrassed by his own words. He turned away and grumbled, “You sleep just fine. I can’t be bothered with you.”

Li Rong remained silent. Pei Wenxuan closed his eyes again, but moments later, he suddenly heard her say, “Lean on me.”

Pei Wenxuan ignored her, but then he felt Li Rong shift closer. Shoulder to shoulder, her usually cool voice carried a hint of warmth as she said calmly, “I’m steady. Lean on me—you won’t fall.”

Pei Wenxuan pretended not to hear. They stood side by side, leaning against each other. He squinted as the morning light slowly spread across the white jade steps, climbing upward until it bathed both of them in its glow.

The sunlight carried warmth, but it was nothing compared to the heat radiating from Li Rong’s shoulder. Pei Wenxuan, utterly exhausted, felt an unusual sense of peace just standing there.

He seemed to drift in and out of sleep, faintly aware of voices and the chirping of birds, as if caught in a dream.

Li Rong crossed her arms, listening to the officials debating inside the hall.

Li Ming announced that the Yang family had lost three consecutive cities on the border, shocking the entire court. Li Ming demanded that the Yangs be investigated, sparking immediate controversy.

Most officials remained silent, while a few argued that Li Ming’s demand was unreasonable. The Yang family had a distinguished military record, and with the war still ongoing at the front, it was unjust to imprison and interrogate the families of frontline soldiers over a few defeats.

Hearing these officials defend the Yangs, Li Ming sneered coldly. “What if the Yang family is accused of deceiving the sovereign, kidnapping a princess, assassinating court officials, and colluding with the enemy? Would that be enough to justify an investigation?”

The hall fell silent. After a long pause, one minister hesitantly asked, “Your Majesty, where did you hear such rumors?”

“Summon them!” Li Ming raised a hand toward the entrance. Immediately, the eunuch’s sharp voice echoed through the hall: “Summon Princess Ping Le and Pei Wenxuan to enter the court—”Upon hearing their names called, Li Rong turned her head and saw the young man slowly open his eyes in the morning light.

His features were sharply defined, and from the side, they resembled overlapping mountain peaks. His eyelashes were long, and when he opened his eyes in the morning light, they fluttered like butterfly wings, lightly dancing in the glow.

"Let's go."

Li Rong smiled faintly, straightened up, and walked toward the main hall. Pei Wenxuan watched her slender back and felt momentarily dizzy, a vague sense of disorientation washing over him. After a moment, he snapped back to reality and couldn't help but smile softly. He closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and then opened them again, composing himself before following Li Rong inside. They knelt one after the other on the ground and called out in unison, "Your son (your humble servant) pays respects to Your Majesty. May Your Majesty live ten thousand years!"

"Rise," Li Ming said, raising his hand. "Pei Wenxuan, read the memorial to them."

To bring the Yang family's case to light, someone naturally had to serve as the blade. No one else dared to write this memorial, but Pei Wenxuan had already prepared it the night before.

His writing was sharp and unsparing, filled with impassioned denunciations of the Yang family's deceitful and tyrannical behavior, their collusion with enemy nations, and their disregard for the law. After his scathing tirade, the hall fell silent. After a while, the Censorate finally reacted and began arguing with Pei Wenxuan.

Seeing Pei Wenxuan clash with these censors, Li Rong instinctively took a step back behind him, watching as he took on the entire group single-handedly.

Pei Wenxuan was tough in life, but even tougher with words. In the past, he had always directed his sharp tongue at her, leaving her fuming both in and out of court. Now, watching him confront the opposition, Li Rong felt an inexplicable sense of satisfaction.

The entire Censorate took turns challenging him, but Pei Wenxuan held his ground against them all. At first, Li Ming thought about intervening, but seeing how formidable Pei Wenxuan was, he eventually fell silent, sipping tea as he listened to the arguments.

Li Rong retreated to the side and had tea prepared. After Pei Wenxuan finished his heated debate with the others and coldly asked, "Do any of the ministers still have objections?"—and no one spoke up—she silently brought him the tea. Pei Wenxuan habitually took it and drank, only realizing something was amiss afterward. When he turned around, he saw Li Rong's smiling eyes, as if saying to him, "Keep going."

For some reason, seeing Li Rong like this made Pei Wenxuan feel a little embarrassed. He pretended to remain calm, turning back to face the ministers who had been arguing with him.

In court debates, the goal was often to invoke grand principles and assign lofty labels. Regardless of practicality, as long as one stood on a foundation of "absolute righteousness," no one could find fault.

Pei Wenxuan was well-versed in court tactics, and in the prime of his youth, he debated with these men all morning, his drowsiness completely gone and his spirits high.

The opposing ministers either couldn't out-argue him or lacked the energy to continue, and one by one, they conceded defeat. Seeing that things had reached a suitable point, Li Ming said, "Enough. Since everything has been discussed, let it be settled."

He then pointed to three individuals: "Ping Le, Pei Wenxuan, Su Rongqing."

The three stepped forward, and Li Ming said calmly, "Given the involvement of the prestigious Yang family, this case will be presided over by Ping Le. Pei Wenxuan is promoted to Supervisory Censor to assist Ping Le in the trial. Since both of you have connections to this case, Vice Minister of Justice Su Rongqing will oversee the proceedings. What do you think, my ministers?"

No one spoke.

They were too exhausted to argue anymore.Li Ming nodded in satisfaction and said to those beside him, "Draft the decree. Yang Quan of the Yang family plotted to harm the princess and assassinate a minister. While the Yang family may avoid the death penalty, they cannot escape punishment. In consideration of the Yang family's past merits, they will not be handed over to prison. After evidence is collected, they will be placed under house arrest within their estate."

As he spoke, Li Ming looked up and said calmly, "Ping Le, I grant you an additional five hundred men. Will that suffice?"

"Thank you, Father," Li Rong replied joyfully. "Your daughter will handle this matter flawlessly."

The court officials remained silent. Li Ming seemed weary as he nodded and waved his hand, announcing, "Court is dismissed."

Everyone bowed and paid their respects, seeing Li Ming off. After Li Ming left, Li Rong stood up, glanced at Pei Wenxuan and Su Rongqing beside her, and smiled. "I plan to search the Yang estate now. What are your plans?"

"I defer entirely to Your Highness's arrangements," Pei Wenxuan replied respectfully. Su Rongqing gave a light smile. "As do I."

Li Rong looked at Pei Wenxuan, then at Su Rongqing. For the first time in many years, she saw the two of them standing together so harmoniously, both wearing smiles. For some reason, she suddenly felt an inexplicable sense of guilt. She cleared her throat lightly and stepped forward. "No time to waste. Let's go."

Li Rong hurriedly distanced herself from them. Su Rongqing and Pei Wenxuan followed behind her. Li Rong couldn't explain why, but her heart was racing wildly.

The three of them walked out of the palace and boarded their carriages. Li Rong, leading Jing Lan and Jing Mei, quickly took the front carriage and said to Pei Wenxuan and Su Rongqing, "I will go ahead. You two may follow shortly."

With that, Li Rong boarded the carriage. After ordering the Manor Guards to be dispatched to the Yang estate's entrance, she quickly lowered the curtain and fanned herself vigorously with a small fan, as if she had been holding her breath for a long time.

"What's the matter with the princess?" Jing Mei asked, seeing Li Rong in this state as she brewed tea for her. She couldn't help but laugh. "Why are you like this?"

Li Rong shook her head, took a cup of tea from the side, and after a moment, let out a long sigh. "I suddenly have some admiration for those men with multiple wives and concubines."

"Why do you say that, Princess?" Jing Mei asked, puzzled. Li Rong sighed with a tone of relief after a narrow escape. "My heart was beating too fast. I couldn't bear it."

In her previous life, there was a time when she had considered keeping many male companions, preferably ones who looked like Pei Wenxuan and Su Rongqing. She thought that embracing them left and right every day might bring her joy.

Today, she suddenly realized that sometimes, having too many people around might not bring happiness either.

At least at this moment, she only felt fear, panic, and guilt, with no trace of happiness whatsoever.

While Li Rong's emotions were in turmoil, Pei Wenxuan and Su Rongqing remained exceptionally composed. Sharing a carriage, they passed the time by playing a game of chess.

"Your marriage to the princess is likely settled, isn't it?" Su Rongqing picked up a chess piece, his voice calm. "I heard the palace was quite lively last night."

"Minister Su seems quite concerned about the princess's marriage," Pei Wenxuan remarked.

"Who in Huajing isn't?" Su Rongqing smiled. "Now, Lord Pei is the talk of the capital."

"Talk about what? Whether I will marry the princess?" Pei Wenxuan said as his piece clicked onto the board. He looked up at Su Rongqing. "Then let me be frank with you, Young Master Su."

"Her Highness the Princess—I am determined to marry her."Su Rongqing smiled, lightly tapping his fan against his palm. "Indeed. However, I am somewhat curious," he said while placing a piece on the board, "what does Lord Pei think of the princess?"

"Quite good," Pei Wenxuan replied calmly. "Eloquent and articulate."

As he spoke, another phrase surfaced in his mind—sharp-tongued and quick-witted.

"Considerate and understanding."

Always stepping right on his sore spots.

"She is an excellent young lady."

After praising Li Rong, Pei Wenxuan suddenly felt as though he never wanted to speak again. It seemed that uttering those words had drained him of all his strength.

Su Rongqing listened to Pei Wenxuan’s words, nodding gently as he said, “However, I heard that Lord Pei was once engaged in a childhood marriage. How does Lord Pei feel about that young lady…”

Hearing this, Pei Wenxuan raised his eyes coldly and looked at Su Rongqing before him. Su Rongqing understood the warning in his gaze and nodded, saying, “I understand. Some people are like the bright moon—admirable but beyond reach.”

“Minister Su should speak less about Her Highness,” Pei Wenxuan said lightly. “Otherwise, I might start to wonder who Minister Su’s bright moon is.”

“Just a joke, just a joke.” Su Rongqing waved his fan. “Shall we continue the game?”

The two resumed playing, but their moves became increasingly erratic. Pei Wenxuan lost interest and said directly, “Young Master Su, I am extremely tired and will rest for a while. I must excuse myself.”

Su Rongqing smiled gently. “As you wish.”

Pei Wenxuan acknowledged this, leaned against the side, closed his eyes, and drifted off to sleep.

Before falling asleep, for some reason, his thoughts turned to Li Rong that morning. She had stood beside him, allowing him to lean on her, standing firm and steady. Despite her slender frame, which seemed as though a gust of wind could carry her away, she had stood unwaveringly.

Lost in these wandering thoughts, Pei Wenxuan unconsciously allowed a faint smile to grace his lips.

When Pei Wenxuan awoke, they had already arrived at the Yang residence. Li Rong had sent people ahead to surround the estate. As he stepped down from the carriage, he saw the Yang family’s Manor Guards facing off against Li Rong’s guards.

The main gate of the Yang residence was tightly shut, with soldiers on both sides hesitant to act. Li Rong walked over to the guards, and her chief guard, Jiang Ping, stepped forward respectfully, saying, “Your Highness.”

“Where are the Yang family members?”

“They are inside, refusing to come out. Without Your Highness’s presence, I dared not take action.”

Li Rong nodded. She looked at the Yang family’s gate, holding her fan against her chest and lightly tapping it against her arm, but said nothing. Su Rongqing and Pei Wenxuan approached, and Su Rongqing asked with some confusion, “Your Highness, why have the Yang family locked their gates?”

“Hmm,” Li Rong thought for a moment. “Fear, perhaps.”

With that, she turned and beckoned to Pei Wenxuan. Pei Wenxuan stepped forward and said respectfully, “Your Highness.”

“Tell me, if I were to reason with the Yang family, could you win the argument?”

“No,” Pei Wenxuan replied decisively. “In the court, there is hierarchy, and Your Highness could prevail. But here, before the Yang family’s gate, the audience consists of commoners. The Yang family holds high prestige among the people. Without sufficient evidence, forcibly searching their estate would likely leave a stain on our reputation.”

“Hmm.” Since even Pei Wenxuan said they couldn’t win, Li Rong gave up the idea.

After a moment’s thought, she turned to Jiang Ping beside her and said, “Jiang Ping, guard the Yang residence well. If they refuse to come out, then they shall not come out.”

Jiang Ping acknowledged the order. Li Rong surveyed the surroundings briefly before turning to Su Rongqing. “Minister Su, given the current situation, searching the estate is inappropriate. I intend to retrieve some account books from the Ministry of War. Could Minister Su assist with this?”

“At Your Highness’s command,” Su Rongqing replied respectfully. Li Rong nodded and said, “Then I must trouble Minister Su to coordinate with the Ministry of War first. If they agree to examine the accounts, I will go there myself.”

Su Rongqing acknowledged the order. Li Rong then turned to Pei Wenxuan. “Lord Pei.”

“Your servant is here.”

“Lord Pei did not bring a carriage. Allow me to escort you.”

“Thank you, Your Highness.”Pei Wenxuan bowed in thanks, then followed Li Rong's arrangements and boarded her carriage. After instructing Jiang Ping to treat the Yang clan members well, Li Rong lifted the curtain and entered the carriage.

The two sat on opposite sides as the carriage set off again. Jing Lan and Jing Mei did not enter. Li Rong poured herself a cup of tea, and Pei Wenxuan asked directly, "Where are we going?"

"Why don't you think I'm sending you home?"

Li Rong raised an eyebrow. Pei Wenxuan shook his head. "You gained nothing today. You wouldn't return like this."

"Indeed, someone who has known me for years truly understands me." Li Rong picked up her teacup, gently blew away the green leaves floating on the surface, and said slowly, "Do you remember Tuoba Yan?"

Pei Wenxuan thought carefully before finally recalling. "The moneylender you once arrested?"

"Correct." Li Rong nodded. "This man frequently travels between the northwest and Huajing, with businesses spanning several countries. On the surface, he trades, but in reality, he makes a living by laundering money. Many nobles in Huajing have dealings with him."

"Including the Yang clan."

Pei Wenxuan stated with certainty. Li Rong acknowledged with a hum. "Although the Yang clan was destroyed by my father back then, the investigation wasn't thorough. Later, when I investigated Tuoba Yan for Chuan'er, I truly uncovered the entire operation of the Yang clan. The reason Tuoba Yan has managed to survive and thrive across various countries isn't just because he's skilled in business—the most important thing is that he has a lifeline."

As she spoke, Li Rong leaned closer to Pei Wenxuan and whispered, "Account books."

"So you're not in a hurry to investigate the Ministry of War's accounts." Pei Wenxuan understood. Li Rong smiled mockingly. "What's the point of checking the Ministry of War's and the Yang clan's accounts? They're examined every year—could they possibly be genuine? Besides, if we can't obtain evidence ourselves, which of those old foxes in the Ministry of War would dare hand over the account books to us? We're not like before, where one call could summon a hundred responses. Nowadays, no one in the court looks favorably upon us. It's just the two of us, huddling together for warmth."

Listening to Li Rong's words, Pei Wenxuan analyzed, "If we obtain the money-laundering account books from Tuoba Yan, cross-reference them with the military accounts from the northwest and the Yang clan's accounts, we should be able to trace the flow of funds. The charge of the Yang clan embezzling public funds would then be almost certain."

Li Rong hummed in agreement and continued, "Now that we've trapped the Yang clan members, they will surely seek help from the border. When General Yang receives the urgent report from home, he will likely take immediate action to pressure His Majesty. If they resign and territories are lost, the entire court will likely blame us to appease the Yang clan and beg them to fight properly."

"At that time, the Crown Prince will be tasked with handling this matter." Pei Wenxuan spoke calmly, as if everything was within his calculations. "We'll invite Qin Lin and Cui Qinghe out of seclusion to accompany the Crown Prince to the front lines. If the front lines can hold out for another half-month, the Rong Kingdom's weapons will be nearly depleted. That will be the Crown Prince's moment to achieve glory."

Qin Lin and Cui Qinghe were the most capable generals under Li Chuan in their previous lives—one skilled in strategy, the other in warfare. In Li Chuan's era, they nearly pacified the entire north.

If they could be persuaded to emerge from seclusion ahead of time, with their abilities, combined with the support of the Shangguan Clan and Li Chuan, as well as the foreknowledge provided by Li Rong and Pei Wenxuan, dealing with the remnants of the Yang clan in the northwest should be well within their grasp.Li Rong nodded in agreement. "As long as Chuan'er keeps the Yang family steady, we can get the account books from the northwest. Once we cross-check the accounts, the Yang family will be finished for good. For now, our first step is to obtain the money-laundering ledgers. With these in hand, when the Yang family applies pressure, we'll have a reason to continue detaining them."

"Alright," Pei Wenxuan nodded, then glanced out the window at the bustling crowd, somewhat puzzled. "So, where are we now?"

"On the tenth of every month, Tuoba Yan's private estate hosts an exclusive gathering, inviting wealthy merchants from various countries."

As she spoke, Li Rong reminded Pei Wenxuan, "Today is the tenth."

"You want to go?" Pei Wenxuan exclaimed in surprise.

Li Rong nodded. "I know where he keeps the ledgers. I need to retrieve them."

"Such matters," Pei Wenxuan frowned, "should be left to the shadow guards. You are a delicate noblewoman—it's hardly appropriate."

"Do you think I don't know my own worth?" Li Rong shot him a glare before explaining, "His room is rigged with mechanisms. To open the door, you must turn the correct dials, and the labels are in Persian. Among our shadow guards, can you find even one who understands Persian?"

Pei Wenxuan choked back his words, then could only sigh helplessly. "Fine..."

"What's this?" Li Rong laughed, opening her fan to cover half her face. "Are you worried about me?"

"I'm worried about myself," Pei Wenxuan glanced at her and quickly replied. "If anything happens to you, how could I possibly survive?"

"That's a good way to think," Li Rong nodded, tapping her fan against his chest playfully. "From today onward, Lord Pei, remember this well—I, Ping Le, am now your very life."

Hearing this, Pei Wenxuan's heart couldn't help but skip a beat.

He subtly stepped back, feigning annoyance. "Stay away from me. Don't pull that trick on me."

Knowing he disliked her teasing, Li Rong only laughed more brightly. Seeing her smugness, Pei Wenxuan ignored her and asked, "It's a private gathering—how do we get in?"

"Don't worry about that. I've already arranged for invitations. We'll change into disguises and slip in later."

"Mm." Pei Wenxuan nodded, reassured by Li Rong's usual thoroughness. Relaxing a little, he said to her, "Then I'll rest for a while. Wake me when we arrive."

"Of course." Li Rong pulled out a storybook from the side and leaned back leisurely. "I'll read this while you sleep."

Pei Wenxuan acknowledged her and found a spot to lie down.

Though Li Rong's carriage was quite comfortable, it still jostled slightly. Closing his eyes, Pei Wenxuan caught the faint fragrance drifting from Li Rong nearby. For some reason, he didn't feel sleepy and opened his eyes again.

Through the small table, he could see Li Rong's red-and-white gown embroidered with peonies. The wide sleeves and cinched waist accentuated her slender figure, so delicate it seemed one could encircle it with a single hand. Compared to the gentle curves above, it held an even more captivating allure.

Feeling it improper, Pei Wenxuan dared not look further and quickly shifted his gaze upward. There, he saw Li Rong's hands—like white jade carved without flaw, her nails painted crimson. Just the sight of them seemed to stir something deep within his heart.Pei Wenxuan furrowed his brows. He thought it must have been years since he had properly observed Li Rong, and only now did he recall that Li Rong was, by nature, a girl like a bewitching spirit.

Unlike other girls in Huajing who prized a slender, elegant beauty, Li Rong’s beauty had always been dazzlingly flamboyant, enchanting and captivating. With other beautiful women, one glance would make them seem like a painting—you’d want to frame them, hang them on the wall, and admire them day after day.

But Li Rong stood at the extreme. For ordinary men, she was entirely too intimidating to look at directly; they lacked even the courage to meet her gaze. Yet for someone like Pei Wenxuan, who dared to raise his eyes to her, merely looking at her was enough to stir up those unspeakable, shadowy thoughts within.

No one would think of admiring her from afar like a painting. Instead, they’d want to draw close, to possess her, to pull her into their arms and become the one and only person she could see in her eyes.

This contradictory charm made her both radiant and lonely. Few dared to approach her, to look directly at her, let alone accompany her.

Pei Wenxuan gazed at her, his thoughts drifting for a moment. Li Rong noticed he wasn’t asleep. She turned a page of her book and said lightly, “Can’t sleep?”

“Mm.”

Caught, Pei Wenxuan felt no embarrassment. He replied candidly, “Somehow, I’m both tired and unable to sleep.”

“Shall I keep you company for a chat?”

Li Rong set down her book and looked at Pei Wenxuan.

Pei Wenxuan turned over, studying her warily. “Do you have something to ask of me?”

“Indeed,” Li Rong brushed her sleeves, straightened her robes, and leaned against the small table, smiling as she looked at Pei Wenxuan. “I just want to know, Lord Pei, why must you kill Yang Quan?”

“Hmm?”

“I’ve been thinking,” Li Rong said seriously. “Actually, Lord Pei doesn’t necessarily have to kill Yang Quan to marry me. If it’s just about marrying me, there are still many ways you could manage it. Now, by killing Yang Quan, either you die or the Yang family falls. What is Lord Pei seeking in doing all this?”

Pei Wenxuan remained silent. Li Rong waited quietly until he finally spoke slowly, “Don’t you want military power?”

Li Rong raised an eyebrow. Pei Wenxuan lifted his gaze to her. “If you want it, I’ll give it to you. What of it?”

Hearing this, Li Rong was stunned for a moment. Then she hesitated and said, “I think the friendship between Lord Pei and me doesn’t seem strong enough to bear such a heavy gift.”

“This has nothing to do with our friendship,” Pei Wenxuan chuckled. “I just don’t want to relive my past life all over again.”

With that, Pei Wenxuan looked out the window and said softly, “I don’t want the Yang family to remain and cause trouble, letting the emperor and the Yangs fight it out until the Rong Kingdom benefits, ceding five cities, and leaving me to clean up the mess as prime minister.”

“I don’t want the crown prince to nearly be deposed by His Majesty again for lacking military power, for us to meet in prison, and for you to bid me farewell, telling me that if necessary, I could even behead you myself.”

“Since life has started anew,” Pei Wenxuan looked at Li Rong, his expression earnest, “I think I can live this life better.”

Li Rong said nothing. She opened and closed her small fan in her hand. After a long while, she let out a soft laugh, lowered her head, and said gently, “In the end, Prime Minister Pei is still paving his own path. Just now, you said it was for me. Hearing that,” she lifted her eyes to look at him, her phoenix eyes brimming with allure, “I almost felt moved.”"Oh?" Pei Wenxuan looked up, appearing quite honored. "So that's all it takes to move Your Highness? Then go ahead and be moved."

As he spoke, Pei Wenxuan carelessly joked, "If Your Highness is moved by this humble official, I can at least guarantee that I will absolutely not kill Your Highness."

Hearing this, Li Rong laughed mockingly. "I'm afraid that when the time comes, if I want to take your life, you'll still demand I accompany you in death."

Just like in their previous life—the moment he thought she had killed him, he immediately sent someone to deliver poison to her. Unfortunately, she had acted a step earlier, so she never got to personally drink the poison he offered.

"Li Rong, let me tell you something. I can make a bet with you," Pei Wenxuan reclined on the couch, one hand propping up his head, the other resting on his bent knee, gazing seriously at Li Rong. "If you can truly develop genuine feelings for me, I'll give you my life."

"But, Your Highness the Princess," Pei Wenxuan leaned forward, closing the distance between them until they were mere inches apart. Li Rong could even feel their breaths intertwining, yet there was not a hint of intimacy in the air. Pei Wenxuan's eyes were clear and lucid as he looked at her and whispered softly, "All these years, have you ever had genuine feelings for anyone?"

Author's Note: Li Rong: "Hand over your life."