Li Rоng аnd Реi Wеnxuan bоth frоzе uроn hearing Shangguаn Yа's voicе. Pei Wеnхuаn glаnсеd around аnd whispered to Li Rong, "We'rе nоt far frоm the gаmbling dеn."
Li Rоng nоdded. Тhis рlасе was indеed closе tо the gаmbling den, surrounded bу restaurаnts and teаhоusеs. Shаngguаn Yа wаs dressed in mеn's сlothing, likеlу hаving just finished gаmbling and соme herе fоr a mеal.
Li Rong cаlmed down a littlе аnd instruсted Рei Wenxuаn in а lоw voiсе, "Gо find sоmе рeорle, аnd send sоmeonе to thе rеsidеncе tо fеtсh... Xun Chuan. I'll wаit for you with Shangguan Yа at that restаurant ovеr therе."
Рei Wеnxuan acknowledged the order and went his separate way with the others.
Shangguan Ya walked up to Li Rong, glanced up at the Ministry of Justice gate, and smiled. "Here on business?"
"Here for a meal?"
"Exactly," Shangguan Ya said casually. "I haven't eaten since noon, and I'm starving. If Your Highness has nothing else to do, why not join me?"
"Sure."
Li Rong smiled, stepped down from the carriage, and walked with Shangguan Ya toward the restaurant she had pointed out to Pei Wenxuan. Walking side by side, Shangguan Ya whispered, "The Qin family case has been settled. Your Highness must have received the imperial decree to establish the Supervisory Department today, right?"
"I have," Li Rong replied, glancing back at the Ministry of Justice with a faint smile. "Troublesome little devils."
"What does Your Highness plan to do?" Shangguan Ya clasped her hands behind her back, looking in the direction Pei Wenxuan had left. "It seems you don't intend to report them to the palace?"
"What's the point?" Li Rong chuckled softly. "If I can't even handle these little devils and have to ask others to intervene, I'm afraid His Majesty will strip me of my position tomorrow."
"Then what is Your Highness planning?" Shangguan Ya raised an eyebrow. Li Rong entered the restaurant with her and said nonchalantly, "Just wait and watch the show."
Shangguan Ya nodded. "Alright."
They booked a private room on the second floor. Once inside, Shangguan Ya picked up the menu, rattled off a list of dishes, and turned to look at Li Rong. Li Rong sat by the window, gazing toward the Ministry of Justice while twirling a fan in her hand.
Shangguan Ya poured herself some tea and asked curiously, "I thought I saw the Imperial Son-in-Law earlier. What did you send him to do?"
"To gather some people."
Hearing Shangguan Ya's question, Li Rong turned back and gave her a once-over, looking puzzled. "You gamble outside all day, and your family doesn't know?"
"Not yet," Shangguan Ya shrugged. "Or maybe they do, but it's not a big deal, so they let it slide."
"With a daughter like you, your father must have a headache."
Li Rong laughed. Shangguan Ya wagged a finger and said, "You're wrong. Having a clever and resourceful daughter like me should make my father proud."
As they chatted, the dishes arrived. Shangguan Ya dug in enthusiastically, and seeing her enjoy the food, Li Rong sat beside her and took a few bites as well.
While eating and chatting, the conversation somehow turned to Li Rong's marriage. The two sat on chairs by the windowsill, watching the bustling crowd below. Shangguan Ya held a cup of tea and remarked casually, "To outsiders, your marriage seems like a perfect match, but those with eyes can see that Pei Wenxuan's status is a bit low. I thought you'd look down on him, but it seems you two get along quite well."
Hearing this, Li Rong smiled. "He's a good man.""Indeed," Shangguan Ya nodded, "He's good-looking and has a good temper. But, Your Highness," Shangguan Ya set down her teacup, leaned closer, and whispered, "There's something I'm particularly curious about."
"Hmm?"
"You two," Shangguan Ya lowered her voice even further, "have you consummated the marriage?"
Upon hearing this, Li Rong looked up at Shangguan Ya and raised an eyebrow. "Why do you ask?"
"Your Highness," Shangguan Ya said with a hint of embarrassment, "I may not have eaten pork, but I've seen pigs run. You and the Imperial Son-in-Law are newlyweds, inseparable every day, and your relationship seems quite good. But there's not a trace of intimacy in your words or actions. You even keep a certain distance when walking together, and the way you look at each other is utterly frank. To be honest," Shangguan Ya sighed, "tell me, what's the difference between the relationship you have with the Imperial Son-in-Law and the one you have with me?"
Li Rong was momentarily speechless at Shangguan Ya's words.
Shangguan Ya had always been keenly observant—Li Rong had known this in her previous life. She hadn't expected Shangguan Ya to be so perceptive not only in serious matters but also in matters like this.
Seeing Li Rong's expression, Shangguan Ya chuckled and leaned back into her seat, looking rather pleased. "So I guessed right. Don't worry, Your Highness, I won't gossip. I'm just curious—what exactly is the relationship between the two of you?"
Li Rong wasn't worried about Shangguan Ya knowing this. Shangguan Ya was a discreet person, and since she had already noticed and asked, Li Rong saw no need to hide it. Holding her teacup, she smiled and said, "Exactly the relationship you described."
"Hmm?"
"Friends," Li Rong replied calmly. "Very good friends."
"But," Shangguan Ya pondered, continuing, "you can't stay friends forever, can you?"
"Why not?" Li Rong raised an eyebrow. Shangguan Ya quickly added, "You'll need to have children at some point."
Hearing this, Li Rong couldn't help but laugh. "You're still so young, and you haven't even settled your own marriage. Why worry about others?"
"My own marriage will come when it's meant to," Shangguan Ya said nonchalantly. "To be honest, if I don't meet someone I truly like, I'd rather stay at home and adopt a child from one of the side branches of the family to carry on my name. But you're different," she pressed on. "You and the Imperial Son-in-Law are already married. You might be fine with spending your life alone, but what about him?"
"Haven't you ever considered," Li Rong said, amused by Shangguan Ya's skewed line of thought, "that the Imperial Son-in-Law and I might one day make different choices?"
Shocked by this, Shangguan Ya paused for a moment before exclaiming in surprise, "You plan to divorce in the future?!"
"Why not?" Li Rong spread her hands, completely unashamed. "He's a family-oriented person. I might be fine with spending my life alone, but he needs someone by his side. I don't want to hold him back. Besides, there are so many handsome gentlemen in this world. Why should I set my sights on such a good friend? After all, men are easy to find..."
"But true sisters are rare," Shangguan Ya finished the sentence, understanding Li Rong's meaning. The two shared a knowing laugh. Shangguan Ya asked cheerfully, "So, does Your Highness have anyone in mind for the next one? At your age, most eligible young men are already of marriageable age. If you don't act soon, your options might become quite limited."
"What you say is something I've been considering as well."Li Rong spoke slowly, "But for now, court affairs take priority. We can think about these matters later. If there aren’t any suitable ones, what’s the harm in keeping a few male companions?"
Shangguan Ya nodded. Just then, a knock sounded at the door, followed by a low, hoarse voice: "Your Highness, this humble officer Xun Chuan, reporting as ordered."
Hearing the voice, Li Rong nodded and said directly, "Come in."
As soon as Li Rong finished speaking, a young man wearing a half-iron mask entered.
He was not particularly tall, but his well-proportioned build made him appear slender. For a man, his physique was somewhat lean and frail. Standing in the room with neither arrogance nor humility, he respectfully bowed to Shangguan Ya. "Young Master."
Shangguan Ya looked him up and down, then glanced at Li Rong. Li Rong introduced, "This is my subordinate, Xun Chuan of the Supervisory Department."
Shangguan Ya nodded and cupped his hands toward Xun Chuan. "First time meeting. I am of the Shangguan Clan."
"Sit down. Wait a moment. The Imperial Son-in-Law will bring people over shortly."
Upon hearing this, Xun Chuan acknowledged and, without any hesitation, took a seat on a nearby chair.
Li Rong stroked her teacup and said slowly, "In a moment, the Imperial Son-in-Law will bring a few people over. They’re new and might not follow orders easily. If they don’t take action, you lead them and do it. Understand?"
"Understood."
The young man responded, seeming perfectly clear.
The five hundred men of the Supervisory Department had all been selected by Li Rong a few days prior. They were capable, but capable people naturally understood the current situation, and likely none wanted to be involved.
Today, Li Rong planned to take action directly at the Ministry of Justice. Bringing these men was to give them a warning.
After waiting a while, the three saw Pei Wenxuan arrive with his men.
Shangguan Ya exclaimed happily, "They’re here, they’re here! Your Highness, can I join in on the fun?"
"Find a mask to cover your face," Li Rong said with some disdain. "Don’t let anyone recognize you."
"I have experience with this," Shangguan Ya quickly pulled out a half-iron mask, somewhat resembling the one worn by Xun Chuan beside him. He said earnestly, "I always keep one handy, just in case someone recognizes me."
With such thorough preparation, Li Rong couldn’t bring herself to refuse him.
Without waiting for Pei Wenxuan to come up, the three of them went down together. As Pei Wenxuan reached the entrance of the tavern, he saw Li Rong leading two young men wearing half-masks down the stairs. Pei Wenxuan was momentarily stunned. After glancing left and right for a moment, he suppressed his questions and said to Li Rong, "Your Highness, the men are here."
"Then let’s go."
Li Rong walked ahead, leading the group to the Ministry of Justice. As soon as they reached the entrance, the guards tried to stop them. Li Rong gave a look, and Xun Chuan raised his token, pushing aside the guards with his sword. He said coldly, "Supervisory Department on official business. Step aside."
"Daring to block Her Highness’s path?" Shangguan Ya raised his voice. "What audacity! Can’t you see the imperial decree?!"
With their coordinated act, the path was immediately cleared. Li Rong entered calmly with a smile. Pei Wenxuan stood beside her and whispered, "Where did you find these two clowns?"
Li Rong glanced at Pei Wenxuan with a smile. "Aren’t they more useful than you?"
Pei Wenxuan was momentarily speechless. The four of them, along with a dozen or so bewildered young men, headed straight for the archive warehouse. Seeing them enter, one of the guards immediately said, "You stay here. I’ll go find Minister Su."The highest-ranking official currently seated in the Ministry of Justice is Su Rongqing, and at this moment, they could only think of seeking him out.
Li Rong led her people swiftly to the warehouse. As soon as the Archivist saw Li Rong, he smiled and said, "Your Highness, have you found Chief Clerk Gao?"
"I looked for him, but he wasn't there."
Li Rong smiled. "However, I read the imperial edict again. I examined it left and right, and it seems the edict clearly states that I am to investigate this case, with all others fully cooperating. I thought about it—the Supervisory Department doesn’t seem to fall under the Ministry of Justice. If I need to retrieve the case files, why should I follow the Ministry of Justice’s regulations? Just give them to me directly, Archivist. If anything goes wrong, I’ll take responsibility."
"Your Highness," the Archivist said with an apologetic smile, "you’re putting this humble official in a difficult position."
"The Archivist refuses to give them to me?" Li Rong chuckled, glancing at Pei Wenxuan. "Go."
Upon hearing this, Pei Wenxuan directly entered the warehouse.
In his previous life, Pei Wenxuan had spent several years in the Ministry of Justice and was quite familiar with the archives storage area. As soon as he entered, the Archivist grew anxious and hurried to stop him. Seeing the Archivist chase after him, Xun Chuan immediately pressed him onto a table with his sword, the blade resting against the Archivist’s neck. He looked up at the other guards who were preparing to act and said coldly, "Who dares?"
"What are you all standing there for?" Li Rong glared coldly at the dozen or so people who were frozen in hesitation. She slapped her small fan on the table and said angrily, "You are people of the Supervisory Department. Do I still need to tell you what to do now?!"
Hearing Li Rong’s sharp command, those who had followed her hurriedly drew their swords and blocked the warehouse entrance.
Pei Wenxuan slowly searched for the case files inside the room. The Archivist was pinned to the table by Xun Chuan, while Li Rong sat nearby, idly fanning herself. The Archivist gasped for breath and pleaded, "Your Highness, although my rank is low, I am still an official of the court. Since Your Highness is now handling the Qin Shi case, you should follow the proper procedures. Such high-handedness, even if His Majesty hears of it, would not be approved."
"The Archivist is right," Li Rong nodded, smiling brightly. "At tomorrow’s Morning Court Assembly, I’ll be waiting for your memorial."
As soon as Li Rong finished speaking, footsteps sounded from outside. Moments later, Su Rongqing arrived at the entrance with his men. Seeing the scene, Su Rongqing frowned and said, "Your Highness, what are you doing?"
"I have been ordered to investigate the Qin Shi case. This Archivist has repeatedly obstructed me, leading to a conflict. In his desperation, he attempted to assault me. My subordinate acted hastily to protect me. I apologize for the disturbance, Minister Su."
As she spoke, Li Rong raised her hand and said, "Xun Chuan, show some restraint."
Xun Chuan obeyed Li Rong’s command and released the Archivist. As soon as he was free, the Archivist rushed toward Su Rongqing and said urgently, "Minister! They tried to retrieve the case files without authorization. I was merely following the internal regulations of the Ministry of Justice, but the Princess insisted on forcibly taking the files. I absolutely never laid a finger on Her Highness. I beg you to uphold justice!"
"Oh, so you’re saying I’m lying."
As she spoke, Li Rong secretly used her ring to scratch a wound on her arm. She raised it for Su Rongqing to see, looking quite aggrieved. "Minister Su, look—this is where he injured me. I, a delicate branch of the imperial family, would never harm myself just to frame him, would I?"
Su Rongqing stared at Li Rong’s wound, momentarily stunned. Li Rong blinked and asked, "Minister Su, don’t you agree?"Su Rongqing snapped back to attention at Li Rong's call. The clerk beside him looked utterly shocked and urgently said, "Your Highness, with so many people watching, how can you so blatantly twist the truth? You..."
"Minister Chen," Su Rongqing finally spoke, his tone calm, "say no more. You're injured. Go and rest first."
As he spoke, Su Rongqing took out a white silk handkerchief from his sleeve. With one hand supporting Li Rong's hand, he gently placed the handkerchief over her wound and tied it carefully. Lowering his gaze, he said softly, "I believe Your Highness. There is no need to show this wound to me."
Li Rong hadn't expected Su Rongqing to be so accommodating and was momentarily stunned. Pei Wenxuan, having found the case files, turned back happily only to see Su Rongqing bandaging Li Rong's hand while she stared at him blankly.
Pei Wenxuan felt as if his heart had been sharply pierced, and for a moment, he froze.
After bandaging Li Rong's wound, Su Rongqing said quietly, "The Minister of Justice is usually not at the Ministry. I oversee the daily affairs here. If Your Highness encounters any trouble, you may come directly to me instead of troubling those below."
"Mm."
Listening to Su Rongqing's calm words, Li Rong's emotions gradually settled. Pei Wenxuan walked up behind her with the case files and whispered, "Your Highness, the files have been found."
"Since they've been found," Su Rongqing said flatly, "allow me to escort Your Highness out."
"With so many people here," Pei Wenxuan smiled, "there's no need to trouble Minister Su. We apologize for disturbing the peace of the Ministry of Justice."
Hearing Pei Wenxuan's words, Su Rongqing looked up at him. "Your Highness is the head of the Supervisory Department. It is only natural for her to be here. But what is Lord Pei's status, barging so forcefully into the Ministry of Justice today?"
"Your Highness is new to the court and still requires guidance in many matters. As her husband, I am here at her request to assist her. Is that not permissible?"
Su Rongqing stared coldly at Pei Wenxuan, who stood calmly in place. After a moment, Su Rongqing said indifferently, "If Lord Pei sees no issue with this, then we shall see what His Majesty says at tomorrow's Morning Court Assembly."
"I await Minister Su's words."
Pei Wenxuan cupped his hands in a salute, then turned to Li Rong and said, "Your Highness, let us go."
"Well..." Li Rong was about to bid farewell to Su Rongqing when Pei Wenxuan grabbed her arm. Before she could react, he dragged her out.
The remaining people were left somewhat bewildered. Shangguan Ya's eyes darted around, observing the scene.
Xun Chuan sheathed her sword and walked over to Shangguan Ya, saying calmly, "Stop looking. Let's go."
With that, she led the group out. Shangguan Ya smiled and bowed to Su Rongqing before hurrying after Li Rong.
Pei Wenxuan pulled Li Rong outside, and she finally spoke, both amused and exasperated. "What's gotten into you? Are you this angry just because Su Rongqing said he'd report you? Alright, stop dragging me forward. The others are still behind."
Hearing this, Pei Wenxuan finally stopped. His expression was grim as he turned to her and asked, "Is your hand alright?"
"What could be wrong with it?"
Li Rong watched as Pei Wenxuan lifted her hand and examined it carefully. She chuckled and said, "It's just a small scratch I made with my ring earlier. It's nothing serious."
Pei Wenxuan said nothing, his gaze fixed on the white silk handkerchief on Li Rong's hand. Shangguan Ya and Xun Chuan led the others out, and Shangguan Ya smiled. "Your Highness, with the case files in hand, we can consider this a success."
"Right. Where are you heading now?"
"I must return."Shangguan Ya thought for a moment, then added, "Your Highness, why not see me off?"
"Alright."
Li Rong knew Shangguan Ya had something to say, so she turned to Xun Chuan and said, "Lead them back to the Princess's Manor first. I'll return shortly."
Xun Chuan raised her hand in salute. Li Rong and Pei Wenxuan escorted Shangguan Ya onto the carriage. Once the three were seated, Shangguan Ya said, "Take me to Juxian Teahouse. I'll head back from there later."
"You're really putting on quite the show."
Shangguan Ya smiled but remained silent.
Pei Wenxuan paid no attention to the conversation between the two women. He took Li Rong's hand, carefully unwrapped Su Rongqing's white silk bandage, and tossed it aside. After examining her wound and confirming it wasn't serious, he fetched water and ointment from the side and tended to her injury.
Shangguan Ya watched their interaction for a moment before withdrawing her gaze and speaking slowly, "Your Highness, I'll be brief. What I'm about to say may be presumptuous, but it's just a suggestion."
"Go ahead."
"If, as Your Highness said today, you're also looking for a suitable candidate for the future, why not consider Su Rongqing?"
Hearing this, Pei Wenxuan froze in his movements. Li Rong raised an eyebrow as Shangguan Ya continued her analysis, "From what I observed of Minister Su's demeanor today, he doesn't seem entirely indifferent to Your Highness. If you could win him over now, it would make things much more convenient in the future."
"What do you mean by that?" Pei Wenxuan glared coldly at Shangguan Ya. Shangguan Ya offered an apologetic smile and said slowly, "My apologies, Lord Pei. Today, I heard from Her Highness about your future plans, so I'm offering a suggestion. If Your Highness is inclined, Minister Su's character, talent, appearance, family background, and status are all highly suitable for you. Why not take action now to secure Minister Su? This would not only secure his allegiance, making the establishment of Your Highness's Supervisory Department smoother, but also resolve the matter of your future marriage. This way, when the two of you separate, you won't miss out on suitable young talents who may already be married. Killing two birds with one stone—I think it's quite fitting."
"I've been considering that as well," Li Rong said slowly. "But I haven't yet clarified my feelings toward Minister Su..."
"Not being certain means there's some interest. Feelings can be cultivated," Shangguan Ya mused. "If Your Highness doesn't mind, I could arrange something."
"What are you planning to arrange?" Pei Wenxuan interjected bluntly. "Her Highness's marriage shouldn't be entangled with such matters."
"If it were purely sacrificing emotions for power, then naturally it shouldn't be," Shangguan Ya said with a smile. "But if Your Highness already has some interest, wouldn't this be a case of going with the flow and adding icing on the cake? Lord Pei, we are both friends of Her Highness, so naturally, we have her best interests at heart."
"Or perhaps," Shangguan Ya said with a meaningful smile, "Lord Pei has other thoughts?"
Pei Wenxuan fell silent, staring at Shangguan Ya. The carriage arrived at the teahouse entrance, and the coachman announced respectfully from outside, "Your Highness, we've arrived at Juxian Teahouse."
"Oh, that was quick," Shangguan Ya stood up and bowed to the two. "I'll take my leave first. If Your Highness makes a decision, let me know, and I'll make the arrangements."
With that, Shangguan Ya lifted the curtain and stepped out of the carriage.
After she left, the carriage resumed its journey. Pei Wenxuan finished applying the ointment and bandaging Li Rong's wound, then asked softly, "What do you think of her words?"
"Hmm," Li Rong pondered. "It's not a bad idea. What do you think?""Your Highness," Pei Wenxuan looked up, "our marriage was founded on power and influence. My reason for seeking a separation is so that you may find someone you truly love, free from all these messy entanglements. If today you are associating with Su Rongqing for the sake of power and influence, how is that any different from what we had?"
"Of course it's different," Li Rong laughed. "Naturally, I would only be with him after I'm certain I like him."
"Then why doesn't Your Highness wait until you're certain of this?"
Pei Wenxuan asked earnestly. Li Rong pondered and said, "How should I determine that then?"
Pei Wenxuan was momentarily stunned by the question. Li Rong continued calmly, "You told me that the current Su Rongqing is different from the previous life. If I don't interact with him, how will I know whether I like him or not?"
"Moreover," Li Rong smiled, "what A-Ya said is indeed true. This matter is like going with the flow, adding flowers to brocade. Wenxuan, I know you take emotions seriously and can't tolerate impurities in them, but many things don't need to be so strictly separated. I can't keep clashing with the Ministry of Justice like this every time. There needs to be someone to mediate."
"Then I'll negotiate for Your Highness," Pei Wenxuan immediately said. "If Your Highness feels it's inconvenient to act within the Ministry of Justice, there are other methods. I'll help Your Highness..."
"Why can't it be Su Rongqing?" Li Rong frowned at Pei Wenxuan. "Didn't you tell me I should give him a try?"
Pei Wenxuan was silenced. Looking at Li Rong's earnest yet puzzled expression, he felt a tightness in his chest. An indescribable bitterness welled up inside him. He gazed quietly at Li Rong, saying nothing.
After a moment, Li Rong slowly said, "Wenxuan, I know you've always held hostility toward Su Rongqing, but you're not usually someone who acts on emotion. Can you give me a reason?"
Pei Wenxuan gradually calmed down. Looking at Li Rong's questioning eyes, he finally lowered his gaze after a long pause. "Your Highness is right. I let my emotions get the better of me. Today I had a dispute with him and felt angry for a moment. Hearing Shangguan Ya say that made me uncomfortable. Your Highness need not mind."
Hearing this, Li Rong laughed. "Why are you acting like a child? The older you get, the more you regress."
"People tend to become more childlike as they age," Pei Wenxuan smiled bitterly, lowering his eyes and changing the subject. "Your Highness, it was inappropriate for you to injure yourself today over a mere clerk. Please don't do that again."
"I know," Li Rong waved her hand, seeing Pei Wenxuan being fussy. "It's not a big deal. 'Precious body' is just something said for others to hear. Aren't we all just human? It's just a scratch. Your bandaging is already excessive."
"Your Highness should still take care of your precious body."
Pei Wenxuan's tone carried some weariness. Hearing this, Li Rong turned to look at him. After a moment's thought, she leaned closer. Pei Wenxuan raised his eyes to meet hers, hearing Li Rong ask with concern, "Pei Wenxuan, is something troubling you?"
"It's nothing," Pei Wenxuan smiled bitterly. "I'm just thinking that Su Rongqing will surely impeach me in court tomorrow."
"Don't worry about that," Li Rong patted his shoulder. "Tomorrow, Father will likely just make a show of deducting your salary. Whatever he deducts openly, I'll privately compensate you for. And if Su Rongqing and I end up together, I'll make him compensate you tenfold."
"Thank you," Pei Wenxuan said flatly. "It's all trivial. This humble official won't take it to heart."
Seeing that Pei Wenxuan's expression hadn't improved much, Li Rong rubbed her nose and fell silent.
She turned back and simply said, "Give me the Qin family's case files."
Pei Wenxuan acknowledged and handed the files to Li Rong. She opened them and began reading quietly in the carriage.The case file consisted of three parts. The first part documented the overall sequence of events in the Qin family case. The second part detailed the specific investigation process, along with reports and official endorsements from the handling officials. The third part contained transcribed testimonies from all witnesses and records of evidence.
The testimonies and evidence were stored elsewhere, and Li Rong likely wouldn’t be able to access them anytime soon. So, she carefully reviewed the entire case progression.
According to the records, this case was discovered by a Supervisory Censor named Wen Ping from the Censorate. Wen Ping received an anonymous letter alleging that during the war between the Rong Kingdom and Great Xia, the Qin family was stationed in Huangping County with a garrison of three thousand troops. When an enemy force of three thousand attacked, the Qin family, under Yang Lie’s instructions, feigned defeat and abandoned the city to flee.
After receiving the letter, Wen Ping retrieved the official military records of that battle from the Ministry of War. The records indeed showed a garrison of three thousand and an enemy force of three thousand, with the defenders ultimately abandoning the city after defeat. Under normal circumstances, an attacking force should far outnumber the defenders to have a chance of victory. With equal military strength, such a failure should not have occurred. Sensing something amiss, Wen Ping submitted a memorial to the Ministry of Justice, requesting the case be formally investigated.
Cui Shuyun, the chief clerk of the Ministry of Justice, took charge of the case. He located Luo Juan, the deputy commander who had participated in the battle. Luo Juan confessed that they had indeed abandoned the city when victory was possible. Based on this testimony, along with the Ministry of War’s campaign logs and the anonymous letter, Cui Shuyun petitioned to seal the Qin residence and detain those involved. On the day the Qin residence was sealed, a letter from Yang Lie to Qin Lang, the head of the Qin family, was discovered during the search. The letter promised the Qin family one thousand taels of gold if they feigned defeat. Later, one thousand taels of gold were found in the Qin family’s cellar.
Qin Lang subsequently confessed without reservation, admitting that he had accepted a bribe from Yang Lie and ordered his son, Qin Feng, to abandon Huangping County and feign defeat.
Thus, the case was closed.
Li Rong carefully examined the transcribed copies of Yang Lie’s letter, the Qin family’s testimonies, and the Ministry of War’s campaign logs. After a while, she chuckled and remarked, “They put in some effort. One thousand taels of gold to buy off an entire Qin family—the price seems far too low.”
Hearing Li Rong shift to serious matters, Pei Wenxuan composed himself. He lifted his head, took the case file from beside Li Rong, and after reviewing it together with her, said calmly, “There are roughly three angles to approach this case.”
“First, we need to find out who wrote that letter, and then locate Luo Juan,” Li Rong began. “Luo Juan’s testimony is certainly fabricated. We must find a few more people who participated in that battle.”
“Next is Yang Lie’s letter,” Pei Wenxuan continued. “We need to obtain it to verify its authenticity.”
“Finally, there’s the matter of the one thousand taels of gold,” Li Rong pondered. “We must find the people who sealed the Qin residence. Only they would know how that gold was planted there.”
“Tomorrow, have Xun Chuan search for Luo Juan and the veterans who fought in that battle to obtain their testimonies regarding the case. As for Yang Lie’s letter and the people who searched the Qin residence…”
Li Rong hesitated. Pei Wenxuan sensed trouble and was about to speak when he heard her say, “If Su Rongqing could speak up, it would be ideal.”
Pei Wenxuan remained silent, his eyes lowered. After a long pause, he finally said, “What if Su Rongqing refuses to cooperate?”
If Su Rongqing wouldn’t budge, obtaining evidence like Yang Lie’s letter would likely require considerable effort. As for the people who searched the Qin residence, that would be even more difficult to uncover.
After all, the letter might still be obtained through layers of pressure, but the individuals who searched the Qin residence could simply claim they’d forgotten and dismiss the matter.Li Rong listened to Pei Wenxuan's words and could only say, "If Su Rongqing refuses to relent, I'm afraid we'll have to prepare on two fronts. On one hand, we need to see if there are any other suitable candidates in the Ministry of Justice who can be brought over. On the other hand, we must follow the proper procedures—whoever withholds evidence from us, we'll trouble them until they hand it over."
But this would actually consume their own time as well, making it the least desirable strategy.
Pei Wenxuan acknowledged with a sound and simply said, "Let's proceed this way."
When Li Rong and Pei Wenxuan arrived at the manor, after alighting from the carriage, Li Rong turned and instructed the attendant beside her, "Send a message to Miss Shangguan, telling her to arrange things as she sees fit. The sooner, the better."
The attendant was momentarily stunned but then complied and left.
Hearing her words, Pei Wenxuan asked, "Does Your Highness have any other plans?"
"I need to go see those dozen or so people. What about you?"
"This humble official still has official duties to attend to. I shall return to the government office first."
Listening to Pei Wenxuan, Li Rong thought he had already accompanied her for a day and likely had accumulated a lot of work. She smiled and said, "I've delayed you today and forgot you have your own matters to handle. In the future, I'll manage on my own to avoid you having to work late into the night."
"Your Highness's matters are my matters. I wanted to accompany Your Highness."
Hearing that Li Rong intended to handle things on her own, Pei Wenxuan felt even more uneasy. He took a deep breath, bowed, and said, "I shall take my leave now."
With that, Pei Wenxuan turned and walked away. After just a few steps, he heard Li Rong call from behind, "Just finish what absolutely must be done. Tomorrow, I'll have Chuan'er speak to your superior. Don't be stubborn."
Hearing Li Rong's words, Pei Wenxuan felt both a pang of bitterness and a touch of joy. He softly acknowledged and said, "Don't stay up too late either. Get some rest early."
"Understood. Go ahead."
Pei Wenxuan went to the government office on his own, while Li Rong entered the Princess's Manor. There, she saw Xun Chuan leading a group of people standing in the courtyard. Li Rong glanced at them, then smiled and took a seat, holding a teacup. She spoke slowly, "Your transfer orders should have arrived by now, I suppose."
No one dared to speak. Li Rong continued calmly, "You all come from humble backgrounds. In the military camps, you've been stuck in a middling position—neither rising nor falling. Despite having considerable ability, you just can't get promoted. Don't you feel wronged?"
The group exchanged uneasy glances. Li Rong called out each of their names one by one and then said, "I remember all of you. Stay and work diligently in the Supervisory Department from now on, and I will not treat you poorly. I know you're afraid of causing trouble, but let me be blunt: from the day you entered the Supervisory Department, you became its people. Even if you don't seek trouble, trouble will come looking for you."
"If you perform well, I'll give you a ladder to the clouds," Li Rong said, her expression turning cold. "If you perform poorly, you won't need me to lift a finger—you won't even make it back alive. You've long since run out of retreat options. Do you understand?!"
Hearing Li Rong's words, the group showed varying expressions on their faces. Li Rong laughed in exasperation, "What? Have you grown so accustomed to being dogs that when I offer you a chance to be human, you're unwilling?"
"At Your Highness's command in all matters," one quick-witted person finally snapped to his senses, realizing Li Rong spoke the truth, and hurriedly knelt. "From this day forward, this humble servant is a person of the Supervisory Department in life and a ghost of the Supervisory Department in death. I pledge loyalty to Your Highness, without a trace of disloyalty!""Very well." Li Rong stood up and pointed to Xun Chuan beside her, saying, "From now on, he will be your superior. His name is Xun Chuan. And you," Li Rong turned and fixed her gaze on the person who had knelt first, "your name is Tian Sheng, correct? From now on, you will be the deputy. The rest of you, tomorrow go and find the others on the Supervisory Department's list, divide them into twelve teams, each of you leading one group, and be responsible for your respective duties. Report to Tian Sheng. The day after tomorrow, give me a report detailing your specific arrangements, to be submitted to me by Xun Chuan."
After giving her orders, Li Rong felt somewhat tired and yawned, saying, "Alright, I shall go rest now. Be careful on your way back."
Having said this, Li Rong waved her hand and left amidst a chorus of respectful farewells.
She returned to her room, took out the confession from the Qin Shi case file, and carefully read through it. She had intended to wait for Pei Wenxuan, but even late into the night, he had not returned. Unable to stay awake any longer, she yawned, washed up, and went to bed.
Lying in bed, she felt a bit more alert and thought about waiting a little longer. Pei Wenxuan had worked hard with her all day; if she slept soundly by herself, that petty-minded man might come back, see it, and feel it was unfair, getting angry again.
Thinking this, Li Rong casually picked up a book from the bedside and began reading drowsily. After a while, she finally couldn't hold out any longer and unknowingly fell asleep.
Pei Wenxuan finished his own tasks and returned to the residence under the stars and moonlight. As soon as he arrived, a servant came forward, offering him a bowl of pear soup, and said with a smile, "Imperial Son-in-Law, it's dry in autumn now. Her Highness prepared pear soup for you. Drink it to moisten your throat."
Pei Wenxuan was taken aback—this was indeed Li Rong's habit. He acknowledged, took the pear soup, drank about half a bowl, then went to the bath to wash up. After finishing, he returned to his room. At the door, he saw the room brightly lit and frowned, quietly asking Jing Lan beside him, "Has Her Highness not slept yet?"
"Her Highness said the Imperial Son-in-Law worked hard today and wanted to wait for your return."
"You didn't stop her." Pei Wenxuan felt a stir in his heart, lowering his gaze as he murmured, "We can't let her be so willful in the future."
"Imperial Son-in-Law, please go to sleep first," Jing Lan advised with a smile. "We will persuade her in the future."
Pei Wenxuan knew Jing Lan was comforting him. With Li Rong's temperament, not even Jing Lan or Jing Mei could stop her, let alone him.
Feeling somewhat helpless, he pushed the door open and was about to speak when he saw Li Rong lying on the bed, unsure whether she was awake or asleep.
Pei Wenxuan paused for a moment, then after a while, he gently walked over and stood by the bedside.
Li Rong lay crookedly on the bed, clearly not having gone to sleep normally. Her sleeping posture was usually proper, not like this. A book was still under her face, obviously having fallen asleep while reading.
It was already autumn, yet she was only wearing a thin garment. A few strands of hair covered her face, the black locks contrasting with her fair skin, making her hair seem like silk and her skin whiter than snow.
Pei Wenxuan quietly watched this girl who had waited for him until she fell asleep, feeling as if he were a ship adrift at sea that had finally found a harbor, gently coming to rest.
He lingered in this moment of tenderness and tranquility, sitting by the bed. He gazed quietly at Li Rong, doing nothing but looking, and even that filled him with a sense of joy and fascination.He suddenly realized that whether in his past life or this one, all the things he had longed for, cherished, and yearned for—that so-called feeling of home—was precisely this moment.
Returning from the government office, drinking a bowl of pear soup, and then seeing that proud girl, having shed her armor, quietly sleeping beside him.
That was the most beautiful time Li Rong had ever given him in this world.
Pei Wenxuan couldn’t help but reach out and place his hand on Li Rong’s face. Gazing at her, he suddenly felt a pang of fear—what would it feel like if he could never have such moments again?
Feeling the warmth beneath his hand, he couldn’t help but whisper hoarsely, “Rongrong.”
In her drowsiness, Li Rong sensed that Pei Wenxuan seemed to have returned. She murmured, “Hmm? Pei Wenxuan? You’re back?”
Hearing her voice, Pei Wenxuan couldn’t help but smile.
He got up and gently moved her to the inner side of the bed, saying softly, “I’m back. Don’t wait up for me anymore, okay?”
His movements roused her slightly. She shook her head and said, “Wasn’t I afraid you’d get petty and angry?”
“When have I ever been so easily angered?”
Pei Wenxuan was both amused and exasperated. “Don’t wrong me like that.”
“You’re very petty,” Li Rong said, turning her back to him as she drifted off to sleep. “Turn off the light.”
Pei Wenxuan sighed and got up to extinguish the lamp before lying down on the bed.
He gazed at Li Rong’s back. She seemed to have fallen asleep, and as he watched her quietly, he couldn’t help but smile faintly.
But as soon as he smiled, a sense of alarm washed over him.
He hurriedly turned his back to Li Rong, not daring to look at her.
He suddenly realized something.
What was he smiling about? What was he happy about? What was he angry about? What was he afraid of?
“Pei Wenxuan,” Li Rong said after a while, as if she had just remembered in her dream what she wanted to tell him. She turned over, and since they were close, her head came to rest against Pei Wenxuan’s back. Still half-asleep, she leaned against him and murmured softly, “Don’t get angry every time you see Su Rongqing from now on. You keep urging me to give him a try, but then you’re always upset. It’s really hard for me.”
Pei Wenxuan remained silent, stunned. Feeling her leaning against him, for a moment, a sentence nearly escaped his lips.
Then don’t try.
Just pretend he had spoken nonsense. He regretted it.
Author’s Note: 【Mini Theater】
Shangguan Ya: “Brothers, don’t be afraid! When it comes to watching the drama, I’ll lead the way!”
Su Ronghua: “I support this! I love watching drama, the bigger the better!”
Li Rong: “…”
Pei Wenxuan: “…”
Su Rongqing: “…”
Li Chuan: “…”
Qin Zhenzhen: “…”
Li Ming: “These two… just drag them out and behead them.”
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