The commotion in Ming Qi ultimately failed to escape the notice of the world.
Somehow, the news that Huangfu Hao had died at the hands of the Crown Prince gradually began circulating among the common folk. Emperor Wenhui had intended to place Huangfu Hao's guards under house arrest, but the situation had already spiraled out of control. If he couldn’t rein it in, chaos was inevitable.
However, the people of Prince Qin’s household would never sit idly by. The news reached the Emperor of Qin’s ears, and within just a few days, messengers raced back with a demand—Emperor Wenhui must provide an explanation, or Qin State would march its armies and raze Ming Qi to the ground.
In the past, Ming Qi might have been able to hold its own against Qin State. But now, with Great Coolness lurking ominously on the sidelines, its ambitions unclear, adding Qin State to the mix would spell certain doom for Ming Qi.
With irrefutable evidence before him, Emperor Wenhui had no choice but to imprison the Crown Prince as well. Though he made sure to arrange special treatment, it was ultimately a desperate move—sacrificing a pawn to save the king.
Truly, as Emperor Wenhui grew older, the decisiveness of his youth had all but faded. Regardless of how his other sons might interpret this decision, even his court officials would find it chilling. To protect himself, he knowingly imprisoned the Crown Prince despite the suspicious circumstances surrounding Huangfu Hao’s assassination.
In truth, Emperor Wenhui wasn’t entirely to blame. His decision to imprison the Crown Prince wasn’t just to appease the Emperor of Qin and temporarily quell his fury—it was also for the Crown Prince’s own safety. Huangfu Hao’s guards were watching like hawks, thirsting for vengeance. If the Crown Prince let his guard down even for a moment, there was a real risk he might fall to their blades. By making him a prisoner, guarded day and night in the dungeons, at least no incidents would arise.
Unfortunately, no one understood Emperor Wenhui’s reasoning. And because of his actions, even the Empress could no longer remain silent.
Storming into the Hall of Mental Cultivation, the Empress angrily demanded, "Your Majesty knows full well the Crown Prince has been wronged—why imprison him? Have you considered how the court officials will view him after this?"
Emperor Wenhui frowned. He disliked being questioned like this. "We have Our reasons," he replied.
He still held some regard for the Empress. She was his lawful wife, and back when the late Emperor was alive, the struggle for succession had been just as fierce as it was now. Without the support of her family, Emperor Wenhui might never have ascended the throne. Over the years, he had deliberately stripped her family of power to prevent any risk of external interference in governance. Thus, he was willing to extend her some courtesy—especially since she was the Crown Prince’s mother.
Privately, the Empress was indeed a commendable consort—neither jealous nor petty, and she managed the imperial harem well.
"I implore Your Majesty to revoke this order," the Empress said. "The Crown Prince must still face the court in the future. Your actions will lead the people to misunderstand him!" In the past, she had never opposed Emperor Wenhui’s decisions. But as a mother, she was fiercely protective when it came to her son. She would not allow the slightest blemish on the Crown Prince’s future—not even a single drop of tainted water could touch him.Moreover, this was no ordinary mistake. The charge of plotting against the Crown Prince of Qin, once proven, would make it nearly impossible for Fu Xiuyan to even keep his life. Although the Empress did not interfere in state affairs, it did not mean she was ignorant of court matters. At the first sign of danger, she would surely nip it in the bud.
Emperor Wenhui had been overwhelmed by this matter in recent days, his heart filled with extreme vexation. To make matters worse, the Empress chose this moment to meddle, prompting him to snap impatiently, "When it comes to state affairs, I do not need your interference."
The Empress’s heart skipped a beat. Having been married to Emperor Wenhui for so many years, she knew his temperament well. Immediately softening her expression, she abandoned her earlier accusatory tone and spoke gently, "Your Majesty, I understand your distress. I acted impulsively just now. I was merely worried—remember when the Crown Prince was young and struggled with arithmetic? No matter how the tutor taught him, he couldn’t grasp it until Your Majesty personally instructed him. In the Crown Prince’s heart, Your Majesty is the most wise and mighty. Now, both Your Majesty and I know clearly that this matter has nothing to do with the Crown Prince. His nature is gentle and kind—how could he commit murder? Even if he were to kill, he would never be foolish enough to act as an assassin in broad daylight. Your Majesty, the Crown Prince is innocent. As his father, how can you stand by and watch him bear the stigma of a baseless accusation?"
These soothing words had some effect, and Emperor Wenhui’s expression softened. Among his nine sons, the Emperor most wished to support the Crown Prince and naturally did not want to see him unjustly ruined. Just as he was about to speak, a palace maid announced from outside, "Your Majesty, Consort Xu has arrived."
The Empress’s face remained composed, but her hands, hidden in her sleeves, clenched tightly. Among the imperial consorts, Consort Xu was the most arrogant. She had given birth to twin princes—Prince Zhou and Jing Wang—and was both doted upon and strikingly beautiful. Though her behavior was brazen, she held Emperor Wenhui’s heart firmly in her grasp.
As for the ambitions of Prince Zhou and Jing Wang, the Empress was not entirely unaware. Consort Xu naturally hoped her sons could ascend the throne, so if the Crown Prince were to fall into trouble, she would not miss the chance to kick him while he was down.
Just then, Consort Xu glided gracefully into the room. Despite having borne two sons, her beauty showed no signs of fading. It was said she bathed daily in goat’s milk, leaving her skin smooth and firm. Compared to the youthful innocence of a maiden, she exuded the mature charm of a woman. Among the palace’s countless beauties, Consort Xu’s looks were truly enviable—no wonder Emperor Wenhui, fully aware of her pride and domineering ways, still indulged her endlessly.
Upon entering, Consort Xu paid her respects to Emperor Wenhui and the Empress before smiling and saying, "Your Majesty has been in low spirits lately, so I had the imperial kitchen’s pastry chef prepare some purple snow bird’s nest for you to taste. I didn’t expect to find Sister here as well."
The Empress smiled faintly, unwilling to engage with her. But Consort Xu would not let the opportunity slip. Turning to the Empress, she said, "Sister, have you come to see His Majesty today about the Crown Prince’s matter?"
Before Emperor Wenhui could respond, the Empress raised her eyebrows and snapped, "Little Sister, you overstep your bounds."Consort Xu covered her mouth with a light chuckle, glancing first at the silent Emperor Wenhui, then at the Empress before speaking leisurely, "Originally, this sister shouldn't speak on such matters. But since His Majesty is already troubled by this, how can elder sister not show consideration for him and still disturb him at such a critical moment?" As she motioned for the palace maid to set down the basket in her hands, she continued, "The matter of the Crown Prince isn't just about one life. The Crown Prince of Qin perished here for no reason, and only the Crown Prince and he were present that day. Naturally, this sister believes our Crown Prince wouldn't commit such a heinous act, but evidence must be presented."
"If no evidence can be provided, how can the public be convinced? Moreover, the people of Qin are watching closely. If His Majesty heeds elder sister's words and releases the Crown Prince, who knows what storms might arise when Qin learns of it. Elder sister mustn't only think of herself and the Crown Prince but also consider the common people." Though Consort Xu's words sounded considerate, they caused the Empress's expression to darken.
"Silence!" the Empress snapped.
Consort Xu pretended to be startled, stepping back slightly as she looked at Emperor Wenhui with feigned grievance. "Your Majesty, this concubine only meant to advise elder sister with good intentions, yet she refuses to accept it. How unjust this is for me!"
Emperor Wenhui felt his head throb, wishing to see neither of them at the moment. He was well aware that Consort Xu's words were meant to sow discord and make things difficult for the Crown Prince, yet he couldn't deny the truth in her words. The Crown Prince's situation no longer concerned just him—it involved Qin's stance as well. Ming Qi couldn't afford the slightest misstep now. If this matter wasn't handled properly, the calamities it might bring to Ming Qi in the future were unforeseeable.
At this thought, Emperor Wenhui grew even more vexed at the Crown Prince, and his impatience extended to the Empress. He said to both women, "Leave. I wish to be alone."
The Empress had waited with great difficulty for Emperor Wenhui to seem on the verge of relenting, only for Consort Xu to ruin everything with her interference. Before she could voice her discontent, Consort Xu preempted her, saying, "Since Your Majesty wishes not to be disturbed, we shall take our leave. We implore Your Majesty to take care of your imperial health and not distress yourself over this matter."
Emperor Wenhui waved them off without looking up.
No matter how unwilling the Empress was, she had no choice but to retreat alongside Consort Xu.
Once outside the Hall of Mental Cultivation, the Empress halted and glared coldly at Consort Xu. "This palace knows exactly what you're scheming. But the son you bore will never replace the son of this Empress."
Consort Xu smiled faintly. "Elder sister speaks too harshly. The Crown Prince is noble and esteemed—this sister only wishes the best for him. As brothers, they should respect and care for one another; there's no question of replacement." She let out a soft, mocking laugh, relishing the Empress's visible irritation, then added, "What this sister has always wished to replace... is you, elder sister." With that, she adjusted a pearl flower by her temple and sauntered away with deliberate allure.
Left standing alone, the Empress clenched her teeth in silent fury.
The news of the Empress and Consort Xu entering the Hall of Mental Cultivation one after the other soon reached others' ears.Consort Dong sat on the couch, listening to her maid play the zither. The melody was "High Mountains and Flowing Water," with the spring's tinkling notes and the towering peaks—a truly splendid scene. She disliked competing with outsiders, believed in Buddhism, and when not in the prayer hall, she would embroider or listen to music in her side chamber, more like a recluse than a consort. Among the four consorts, she was the most overlooked, making it quite puzzling how she had become one of them in the first place.
Seated below her was a man in a jade-colored brocade robe, also smiling faintly as he tilted his head to listen, seemingly immersed in the music for some time.
When the piece ended, the maid holding the zither bowed in gratitude. Consort Dong waved her hand, and her personal attendant presented a reward before escorting the maid out.
Once everyone had left the side chamber, Fu Xiuyi smiled and said, "Mother seems especially cheerful today."
"The Empress can no longer sit still," Consort Dong replied with a smile. "She personally went to the Hall of Mental Cultivation to plead for the Crown Prince's sake, and the Virtuous Consort followed suit. Now that the Virtuous Consort and the Empress are nearly at each other's throats, it's naturally something to celebrate."
Fu Xiuyi chuckled along. "With the Crown Prince in disgrace, the Virtuous Consort won't let this opportunity slip. Prince Zhou and Jing Wang are eager to replace him, and the Virtuous Consort will surely exert her influence in the rear palace."
"Unfortunately, it's not the best strategy," Consort Dong remarked, taking a sip of tea. "But if the snipe and clam don't fight, how can the fisherman profit?"
Mother and son laughed together.
Fu Xiuyi's features resembled Consort Dong's more, usually appearing stern, but when he smiled, he exuded a gentle softness that made it impossible to feel guarded.
Consort Dong asked, "How have you been lately?"
Fu Xiuyi smiled. "I've uncovered some interesting secrets and am currently investigating. Results should follow soon."
Consort Dong gave him a reproachful look. "You've always had your own ideas, so I won't fuss over these matters. Speaking of which, it's about time you married. You're not young anymore, and further delays might make you a target. The Virtuous Consort and her faction would love nothing more than for you to wed a powerless woman as your Royal Consort." She sighed and continued, "Originally, Shen Miao was infatuated with you. I thought if she remained so, we could eventually bring her into the household, securing the Shen family's support for you. Who could have foreseen how unpredictable fate would be? Not only did she change, but now, even the Shen family's connection is beyond your reach."
Fu Xiuyi smiled. "Though I can't have it, no one in Ming Qi can either. Aside from the Crown Prince, any of my brothers who ties themselves to the Shen family will arouse Father's suspicion. The Crown Prince seemed assured of victory, but unexpected twists arose—perhaps heaven favors us." He showed no regret, merely stating, "No influential official family in Ming Qi would ally with the Shen family now. Though the Shen family is vast and powerful, Shen Miao may not marry well."
Consort Dong sighed. "True." Then, recalling something, she added, "But the Crown Prince's fall this time is truly severe. The matter with Huangfu Hao won't be easily resolved. Do you think it was the work of Prince Zhou and Jing Wang, or Prince Li?"Fu Xiuyi did not form factions because he distrusted his own brothers and had always risen to power alone. Previously, the factions of Prince Zhou and Prince Li had fought the fiercest battles. Now, Emperor Wenhui intended to support the Crown Prince and even considered arranging a marriage between the Crown Prince and the Shen family. Naturally, Prince Zhou and Prince Li grew anxious—who could have predicted the sudden emergence of the Crown Prince as a rival? The Crown Prince became their greatest adversary, and they would spare no effort to eliminate him.
This time, the Crown Prince was accused of killing Huangfu Hao. Anyone with eyes could see there was something fishy about it—nine times out of ten, the Crown Prince had been framed. Considering all possibilities, Prince Zhou and Prince Li were the most likely culprits.
Yet, such a blatant scheme didn’t seem to align with their usual methods.
Fu Xiuyi shook his head. "It may not have been them."
Consort Dong was taken aback. "If not them, then who else could it be?"
Fu Xiuyi’s mind flashed to Prince Rui and Shen Miao.
There was undoubtedly some unspeakable connection between Prince Rui and Shen Miao. Though the nature of their relationship remained unclear, every incident involving Shen Miao seemed to have an expert pulling strings behind the scenes—all signs pointed to Prince Rui.
Previously, when Emperor Wenhui had the Empress test the Shen family by spreading rumors of Shen Miao’s impending marriage into the Crown Prince’s household, Prince Rui soon after made ambiguous remarks to the Emperor, causing him to abandon the idea of forcing Shen Miao into marriage.
Now, this incense scheme was clearly targeted at Shen Miao. Yet, in the end, Huangfu Hao and the Crown Prince both suffered heavy losses while Shen Miao remained unscathed. It was said that Shen Miao had also been on her way to Phoenix Pavilion that day but was delayed after colliding with an elderly woman on the road. How could it be such a coincidence? Could Prince Rui have orchestrated everything from behind the scenes?
If it was indeed Prince Rui’s doing, then despite being in Ming Qi, he dared to act so boldly—calculating against the crown princes of two nations in one stroke. This Prince Rui was truly chilling.
Noticing Fu Xiuyi lost in thought, Consort Dong asked, "What’s the matter?"
Fu Xiuyi snapped out of it. "Nothing." Suddenly, he stood up and said to Consort Dong, "I just remembered some urgent matters. I must take my leave, Mother."
"Attend to your duties first," Consort Dong replied. "Go ahead."
Meanwhile, on the other side, thank heavens—Ji Yushu and Gao Yang were finally released from Tower Prison.
During their time there, the two had overseen prisoners and witnessed all manner of cruel methods. Gao Yang fared slightly better, but Ji Yushu, being delicate and pampered, had visibly lost weight. It was no surprise—he had been too nauseated to eat properly every day. How could he not lose weight?
Finally free, the two clasped hands, tears welling in their eyes as they stood in silent sorrow. After a long pause, Ji Yushu said, "I must return to Fengxian Pawnshop first to bathe and change. Farewell for now." With that, he dashed off.
Gao Yang sighed, looking down at his disheveled appearance, feeling utterly drained. Xie Jingxing had been merciless—over a minor oversight, he had them thrown into Tower Prison. Even Tie Yi had struggled to endure it the first time he was sent there!
Let alone privileged men like Gao Yang and Ji Yushu.Ji Yushu returned to Fengxian Pawnshop and first had Hongluan prepare his bathwater. After enjoying a refreshing bath and some snacks, he finally made his way to his study. Upon entering, he was nearly choked by the thick layer of dust inside. Ji Yushu's study was off-limits to servants due to the confidential materials stored there, so no one had cleaned it during his absence. He initially considered asking Hongluan to tidy up but ultimately decided against it, picking up a broom and cleaning it himself.
Once the study was somewhat presentable, Ji Yushu plopped down at his desk and noticed a thick stack of letters piled up. He began flipping through them one by one. By the time he reached the last letter, he was already drowsy, but as he read on, his sleepiness vanished, and his expression gradually turned serious.
Pei Lang had actually been imprisoned by Fu Xiuyi—Pei Lang's identity had been exposed!
Good heavens! Such a major incident had occurred—did anyone know about it? Was anyone trying to rescue him?
Most likely not. Keeping an eye on Pei Lang had been Ji Yushu's own private initiative. After all, he had always wondered why Shen Miao had sent Pei Lang to act as a spy beside Fu Xiuyi. Even if Pei Lang had some talent, being a spy required absolute loyalty. Fu Xiuyi was skilled at controlling his subordinates—wasn't Shen Miao worried that Pei Lang might be turned against her? More importantly, before this, Shen Miao and Pei Lang had only had a lukewarm relationship. How could she have dared to make such a decision?
Unexpectedly, this impulsive act of his had now proven useful.
Ji Yushu turned to leave, intending to show the letter to Xie Jingxing, but he paused mid-step.
"Third Brother wouldn't lock me up again, would he?" Ji Yushu muttered to himself.
The reason Xie Jingxing had confined Ji Yushu and Gao Yang was that when the Empress summoned Shen Miao to the palace to test her about marrying the Crown Prince, the two of them had neglected to report the matter to Xie Jingxing. In retaliation, Xie Jingxing had thrown them both into the Tower Prison.
"Third Brother values Miss Shen greatly, and this Pei Lang seems to have feelings for her too—he even proposed marriage. That makes Pei Lang Third Brother's love rival. If I tell Third Brother now, will he beat me up? He definitely wouldn't want to save him." Ji Yushu rambled to himself. "Just like how I didn't like it when Shaoyao always smiled at the Prime Minister's son—I was quite pleased when that young master's horse spooked and he fell off." Drawing parallels to his own experience, Ji Yushu reached a conclusion: "For now, I shouldn't tell Third Brother about this. Since there's no new news, Pei Lang probably isn't dead yet. Let him stay locked up a little longer."
Ji Yushu thought he had made the right decision, unaware of the consequences his actions would bring in the future.
Meanwhile, Shen Qiu and Luo Ling, as commanders of the Ministry of War's city defense, had been extremely busy these days. Although Huangfu Hao was dead, he had left behind a mountain of problems. The Qin Prince's guards posed a dilemma—executing them would provoke the Emperor of Qin's displeasure, but leaving them alive allowed them to spread rumors among the populace, insisting that the Crown Prince was the murderer. This had thrown Fixed Capital into chaos, with everyone scrambling to deal with the fallout.Unable to kill him, they had no choice but to place him under house arrest for now. However, the Qin Crown Prince's guards were personally selected by the Emperor of Qin to protect Huangfu Hao—how could ordinary soldiers keep him confined in Prince Qin's residence today when he might devise a way to escape tomorrow? To prevent chaos, the city garrison had doubled its patrols throughout Fixed Capital, fearing that the Qin guards might vent their anger by harming innocent civilians.
By the time today's affairs were settled, evening was already approaching. Shen Qiu and Luo Ling walked side by side down the street. Normally, as the New Year approached, Fixed Capital would be bustling with activity, but due to the situation with Huangfu Hao, the city garrison had urged the citizens to close their shops early and return home. Though it wasn’t yet nightfall, the streets were already sparsely populated.
Shen Qiu sighed. "If the Ministry of Justice doesn’t come up with a solution soon, even the city garrison won’t be able to hold out."
With the Crown Prince imprisoned, caught between the Emperor of Qin’s relentless demands for answers and Emperor Wenhui’s reluctance to part with his only legitimate heir, it was the common people who suffered.
"This New Year will be anything but peaceful." Luo Ling shook his head. "No matter the outcome, Fixed Capital is bound to face turmoil."
The two exchanged a glance, each seeing the deep concern mirrored in the other’s eyes.
Shen Qiu said, "Let’s not dwell on this. Yesterday, I heard from Mother that my sister’s marriage prospects need to be reconsidered. Though we needn’t worry about the Crown Prince for now, the more chaotic the situation becomes, the more people will try to use the Shen family as a scapegoat. Given my sister’s unique status, she’s bound to attract unwanted attention. If we don’t settle her marriage soon, it might only complicate things further."
Luo Ling was taken aback by the question and hadn't yet responded when Shen Qiu spoke up, "Cousin, what are your thoughts on this?"
"Me?" Luo Ling's face flushed slightly. "Haven't you long known my feelings, cousin?"
Shen Qiu let out a hearty "Hah!" and slung an arm over Luo Ling's shoulder. "You're a martial artist, raised in the military by your uncle. Why do you sound like one of those stuffy scholars when it comes to this?" He continued, "I think you're fine in every way—just too thin-skinned. If you don't speak to my sister about this, do you expect her to come to you first?"
Luo Ling gave an awkward laugh.
Shen Qiu coaxed patiently, "My sister may seem gentle and compliant on the surface, but deep down, she's proud and stubborn. If you're waiting for her to make the first move, you might as well give up. A real man should act on his feelings—if you like her, just go for it. Even though you can't beat me in a fight," Shen Qiu eyed Luo Ling critically, "given the current circumstances, you're passable. If you become my brother-in-law, I wouldn't object."
Though Shen Qiu spoke boldly, Luo Ling grew even more bashful. "This still depends on your sister's agreement."
"How will she know your feelings if you don't speak up?" Shen Qiu glared. "Setting that aside, you must first find the right moment to tell her how you feel. Cousin, I'll be frank with you—Su Mingfeng was sickly before, and I never liked him. Feng Zixian? Tsk, after what the Feng family did last time, nearly costing my sister her life, that's out of the question. All things considered, you're the best choice."
"Thank you, cousin," Luo Ling smiled. "If the opportunity arises, I will—"
Before Shen Qiu could say more, a magnificent steed suddenly galloped toward them from the other end of the street. Its glossy coat shone brilliantly even in the dim evening light, drawing the gazes of both Shen Qiu and Luo Ling—for where there was a hero, there was always a fine horse.
The rider was equally striking, exuding an otherworldly grace from afar. As he neared the two, he abruptly reined in his horse, causing it to rear up. Yet the man sat perfectly steady, his superb horsemanship a sight to behold. Shen Qiu couldn't help but exclaim, "Well done!"
The rider called out, "Young General Shen."
Shen Qiu was startled.
Seated atop the steed was a man draped in luxurious purple-gold robes that shimmered under the lantern light. His tall, upright figure was accentuated by a silver mask that revealed only his refined jawline and slightly upturned lips. His eyes, gazing down at them, carried a hint of playful charm.
"Prince Rui!" Shen Qiu and Luo Ling hastily bowed. They had seen Prince Rui at court tributes and recognized his distinctive attire. Moreover, his languid yet unrestrained demeanor was uniquely his own.
Prince Rui waved a hand. "No need for formalities. I thought I might have been mistaken, but it truly is Young General Shen. I stopped to greet you." He spoke only to Shen Qiu, ignoring Luo Ling entirely.
Shen Qiu was both flattered and wary. Prince Rui was known for his disregard even toward Emperor Wenhui, yet here he was, initiating a courteous conversation. Shen Qiu wondered if there was some trick at play, but he couldn't help feeling a flicker of pride.
Had his reputation as a young general spread so far that even Prince Rui of Great Coolness sought his favor?
He failed to notice Luo Ling's suddenly pale face.Hanging from Prince Rui's waist was a peace pendant, strangely familiar.
－－－－－－Author's Note－－－－－－
Luo Ling: You hurt me, then walked away with a smile, you scheming boy~ Search for "blue" to read the full subsequent chapters.
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