While the court officials focused their attention on Liu Wenji, one man took advantage of the deep night to flee.
This was Duke Zhao, the Minister of War who had been confined to his residence and had not yet faced trial.
Having served as the accomplice to tyranny for many years, Duke Zhao knew full well that if his crimes came to light, he would likely face the death penalty. He lived in constant fear and anxiety. A servant outside quietly informed him that Yan Shang and Mu Wan Yao had returned, and everyone had gone to the imperial palace together.
Duke Zhao realized this might be his only chance to escape.
He had his long-loyal guards waiting outside, got the guards watching him drunk, and then exchanged clothes with the servant outside. For the first time in his life, he wore such coarse garments and a straw hat, but with his life at stake, he led three or four guards and fled headlong toward the outskirts of Chang'an.
The Guanzhong region was no longer safe; perhaps he could evade the Great Wei's pursuit in the chaotic Hexi territory.
The war between Great Wei and the Southern Barbarians had just ended, and the area outside Chang'an was already peaceful.
Duke Zhao fled in a panic throughout the night. After traveling several miles beyond Chang'an and seeing no pursuers behind him, he began to relax. Suddenly, the mounted guard following him turned pale, his eyes widening in alarm, and he exclaimed hastily, "Duke Zhao!"
They were horrified, as if they had seen something utterly terrifying.
Duke Zhao followed their gaze and saw several riders waiting in front of the woods by the stream ahead. Bathed in the faint morning light, they appeared to have been waiting for a long time.
As their eyes met, the group galloped toward him. Watching the horses splash through the stream, swift as arrows and deadly in their approach, Duke Zhao grew terrified, his face turning bluish as he struggled to breathe.
But as the riders drew nearer, Duke Zhao's eyes widened, and he relaxed instead.
The leader he saw was his own daughter, Zhao Lingfei.
Zhao Lingfei, accompanied by several guards, had been waiting here, blocking her father's escape route. Duke Zhao had not seen his daughter for a long time; one could even say that over the past decade, their meetings had been few and their partings many.
Seeing his daughter again, she remained as beautiful as ever, but the naive charm in her features had completely vanished. Her cheeks were gaunt, her long hair tied under a jade crown. The young woman, like other men on the battlefield, had a firm and cold gaze, sitting tall on her horse with a heroic and spirited demeanor.
Overjoyed, Duke Zhao hurriedly said, "Lingfei, quickly help your father! Yan Er has entered Chang'an, and Her Highness the Eldest Princess... no, now it's Her Highness the Grand Princess, has also entered Chang'an. Those two will surely try to kill me. You must help."
Zhao Lingfei looked at Duke Zhao.
Her eyes were like a clear river, like stars. As the starlight and jade river seemed to swirl in her gaze, she saw him and was reminded of the moment she failed to save her cousin, crouching on the ground weeping uncontrollably, unable to recover anything.
Her heart was filled with regret and hatred, pain and guilt. Why was she here? Did her father understand?
Duke Zhao, looking into his daughter's shimmering eyes, suddenly understood. His smile faded, and he wanted to scold her, but fear took hold. Gripping the reins, he said dryly, "Lingfei, if you won't save me, then step aside and let your father go. I raised you for over ten years, and you've been gone for almost ten years. There must still be some affection between us, father and daughter?
"I am your biological father!"
Tears seemed to glisten in Zhao Lingfei's eyes.
But not a single one fell.
In the morning breeze, strands of hair brushed against her resolute and cold cheeks. She was in agony, but she still spoke word by word: "You cannot leave."
Duke Zhao's face changed dramatically: "What did you say?!"Zhao Lingfei raised the spear in her hand, and the soldiers behind her lifted their swords in unison, confronting the man before them.
Duke Zhao understood.
He said, "Do you intend to kill your own father?"
Zhao Lingfei's voice trembled, "I never wished it would come to this. I followed Second Brother Yan's orders and waited here all night. How I hoped Second Brother Yan was mistaken, that I wouldn't have to face Father. I even thought if I saw Father, I might not be able to resist letting him go, allowing him to flee far away and never return to Great Wei..."
A flicker of hope appeared in Duke Zhao's eyes.
But the despair in Zhao Lingfei's gaze only deepened.
She cried out sharply, "But I cannot do it!
"Seeing Father, I am reminded of my cousin's death! You gave me life and raised me, but you were wrong! I may be unfilial, I may be condemned by all. How heartless must one be to not even spare their own father... Everyone claims to seek great righteousness, yet in private they always pursue personal grievances.
"I would have been the same. But I truly cannot! If I let Father go, how could I answer to the hundreds of thousands of soldiers who lost their lives? How could I account for my cousin's death? How could I face the legacy of Lord Liu, the chancellor of two dynasties? So many common people died because of your selfish desires! I cannot justify it, I cannot face it...
"Letting Father go would leave me without peace! Keeping Father here makes me an unfilial daughter! Both choices are wrong, but I would rather be an unfilial daughter from this day forward!"
She screamed, venting the grievances that filled her heart. But they were endless, countless. She had grown from a young girl into adulthood, fully understanding what she must do... yet those who had died would never return.
The soldiers behind her thought of the battlefield, their hearts filled with sorrow, their hatred for Duke Zhao growing stronger.
Duke Zhao trembled in fear.
Seeing Zhao Lingfei shed tears, she spoke her final words to him: "Your daughter has come to see Father on his final journey!"—
At dawn, Zhao Lingfei escorted Duke Zhao back to Chang'an.
By daybreak, the new young emperor had already been on the throne for two months, but this was his first morning court session. The Empress Dowager sat behind a screen in the rear, filled with trepidation. One moment she thought about her family's rise to power through her son, the next she recalled Liu Wenji's tragic death the previous night, feeling fearful of these ministers.
The court ministers were all formidable and intimidating.
The orphaned son and widowed mother had to be extremely cautious.
The young emperor was too immature and needed care. In haste, the Grand Eunuch by his side was replaced by Cheng An. Cheng An kowtowed to Mu Wan Yao and her husband, tears streaming down his face, vowing to assist the young emperor until death and never allow a repeat of Liu Wenji's tragedy.
The young emperor's first court session proceeded unusually smoothly.
He was remarkably perceptive. When no one had reacted the previous night, he was the first to call out "Chancellor Yan."
During this morning's court session, through Cheng An's hands, the young emperor produced the edict left by his grandfather in the ancestral temple. His own father had treated Yan Shang with alternating distance and closeness, trust and suspicion. Though the old emperor had clearly left an edict, his father had deliberately found loopholes, only granting Yan Shang the title of "Tong Pingzhang Shi."
Now, using his grandfather's edict, the young emperor elevated Yan Shang to the position of chancellor.
This was taught to him by his mother.
With the court now looking to Yan Shang for leadership, if Yan Shang wasn't appointed chancellor, how could the young emperor command these powerful figures? He couldn't even understand what these ministers were discussing.
Wei Shu was promoted to Right Vice Minister of Rites.Afterwards, the ministers began discussing how to publicly announce Liu Wenji's case to provide an explanation to the common people. The eunuch factions relied entirely on imperial power, making them the easiest to dismantle once the Emperor genuinely decided to reclaim authority. The central court systematically prosecuted the eunuchs, charging them with numerous crimes that determined life or death.
With the war concluded, Great Wei decided to execute King Ale to honor the fallen soldiers. Simultaneously, they planned to select a new Southern Barbarian King from among the surviving captives to negotiate with Great Wei.
The peace negotiations naturally fell to the chief councilors, with officials from the Ministry of Rites also participating.
To prevent the Southern Barbarians from resorting to external warfare due to poverty and desperation, Great Wei decided to take control of their economy. The court had long determined to implement a loose rein policy over the Southern Barbarians, exercising control through cultural, economic, religious, and military means.
In truth, Great Wei had contemplated this approach before, but the ideas were immature then, compounded by imperial succession disputes and the Emperor's suspicions. Now that Yan Shang served as chief councilor, he naturally promoted policies he had contemplated for years.
The young Emperor stretched his neck from the rigid throne, earnestly listening to the ministers' discussions below. He noticed how the elder statesmen gathered around Yan Shang, who appeared young, eloquent, and exceptionally charismatic. Though only half-comprehending the conversation, the boy could only think how impressive his uncle-in-law was.
So articulate.
So graceful.
Was this the gentlemanly demeanor described in books?
Behind the bamboo screen, the Empress Dowager saw the young Emperor nearly leaping from his throne and discreetly coughed to remind him.
Yan Shang turned and saw the young Emperor staring wide-eyed at the ministers below. Meeting Yan Shang's gaze, the boy immediately leaned back and sat properly, trying to assume a mature imperial demeanor. But being merely six or seven years old, his attempts at maturity still revealed his childish nature.
Yan Shang smiled faintly.
After some thought, he said: "Your Majesty should be assigned a grand tutor for proper studies."
Fearing his uncle-in-law might consider him unteachable, the young Emperor immediately protested: "I... We began our education at four and have always studied diligently!"
Yan Shang responded gently: "Not those kinds of books. These would teach Your Majesty how to be a proper emperor."
He paused before continuing: "Additionally, starting today, Your Majesty and the Empress Dowager must reside in separate palaces. Your Majesty can no longer return to the Empress Dowager's chambers to sleep. This subject will discuss Your Majesty's education with several councilors today and arrange new study companions tomorrow. How does Your Majesty find this arrangement?"
Still somewhat confused, the young Emperor felt disappointed about not being able to sleep with his mother anymore. But hearing Yan Shang would find him new companions, he grew excited and hesitantly asked: "Can Brother Ayue study with me?"
Yan Shang smiled: "What could be wrong with Your Majesty maintaining close bonds with your brothers?"
The young Emperor appreciated his gentle temperament and proceeded to ask numerous questions about his future life. Gradually satisfied, he easily became captivated by his uncle-in-law's charm. After court sessions, he privately began calling Yan Shang "uncle-in-law," despite Yan Shang's repeated objections.
The Empress Dowager felt displeased.
She recognized that Yan Shang's actions aimed to prevent internal palace interference in governance. Separating the young Emperor from her so early blocked the path for maternal relatives' influence. Moreover, by preventing the Emperor's upbringing under the care of the women of the harem and starting his education through the front court, Yan Shang ensured the young Emperor wouldn't grow particularly close to the Empress Dowager.
Furthermore, Yan Shang's formidable presence made the Empress Dowager sense that the young Emperor seemed completely captivated by him, developing exceptional fondness for him. This heightened her sense of crisis.She couldn't help but frequently make small gestures, trying to bring her son back to her side. But this was not accomplished, for Mu Wan Yao, now The Eldest Princess, entered the palace and spoke deeply with the Empress Dowager throughout the night.
The next day, the Empress Dowager began secluding herself in her palace, practicing vegetarianism and chanting Buddhist scriptures, no longer interfering with the young prince's education.
What kind of emperor would emerge—one no longer raised solely by palace women and eunuchs but educated collectively by former court officials—was something everyone eagerly anticipated.
Afterwards, Great Wei entered peace negotiations with the Southern Barbarians.
At the end of August, Duke Zhao was executed and his body publicly displayed.
Amid the chaotic curses of the crowd, Zhao Lingfei witnessed her father's death. After watching, she quietly departed. By the time Wei Shu received the news and tried to find her, she had already left Chang'an, her whereabouts unknown. She left no words for anyone, only telling Wei Shu that she was heading to Hexi.
She had finally understood what she wanted to do with her life and what kind of person she wanted to become.
Yang Si's death had made her mature overnight, and Duke Zhao's death left her utterly disheartened. She wanted to become a wandering knight, helping all who needed her. Yet she felt too ashamed to face old acquaintances, unable to bear living an ordinary life. Thus, she could only leave Chang'an and journey far into the desert.
In her letter, she wrote that she was sorry to Wei Shu... that he need not wait for her any longer.
She whispered: "I hope Brother Ju Yuan marries, has children, lives peacefully and finds happiness. Though we are not together, we both remain in Great Wei. Even if we never meet again, just knowing the other is alive is already enough."
In September, Great Wei selected a new Southern Barbarian King to their satisfaction.
Yan Sanlang, currently in Hexi, wrote to his second brother saying he would return to Lingnan to visit family. He also sent Yan Shang many exotic Western Region goods. Amid his busy schedule, Yan Shang wrote to Jiannan and Lingnan to inquire about Yan Xiaozhou. If his younger sister still hadn't resolved her emotional struggles, Yan Shang wanted her to come to Chang'an and live with him and Mu Wan Yao for a few years.
A letter from Lingnan reported that Yan Xiaozhou had returned briefly, then after a night conversation with Yan Father, she departed for Liaodong under Han Shu Xing's protection.
Reading the letter's contents, Yan Shang felt a sudden pang of sorrow.
Liaodong was where Yang Si's family had been exiled.
His younger sister appeared calm, seemingly without shedding a single tear, yet Yan Xiaozhou couldn't let go of Yang Si. She remembered him constantly, holding him in her thoughts always.
So Yan Shang wrote to the now somewhat literate Han Shu Xing, instructing him not to interfere with whatever his sister did, but simply to protect her and ensure her safety. Yan Shang could no longer devote more attention to Yan Xiaozhou's matters, as he was stretched too thin. Mu Wan Yao had recently been feeling unwell and was recuperating from illness; Yan Shang was busy with court affairs regarding Great Wei's peace negotiations with the Southern Barbarians, while also being forced by Mu Wan Yao to take medicine daily.
His concern for his family could only extend this far.
On the Double Ninth Festival, under Mu Wan Yao's insistence, Yan Shang finally managed to take a day off. He had promised Mu Wan Yao they would visit the martyrs' memorial together and pay respects to his mentor, Lord Liu.
The Liu family had established a cenotaph for Lord Liu at the foot of the southern suburbs' Nanshan, which Yan Shang was determined to visit.
Though Mu Wan Yao had originally agreed to accompany Yan Shang, when she woke at dawn she felt unwell again and decided not to go, telling Yan Shang to proceed alone.Yan Shang sat on the couch watching her listless, pale appearance, his heart aching unconsciously. He said, "You claim I'm the one in poor health now, but since returning to Chang'an I haven't fallen ill once. Meanwhile, you've been constantly dispirited. Let me summon the imperial physician."
Mu Wan Yao rested her hand on her forehead and snorted, "No need! It's just my old ailment—probably not adapting to the local environment. I'll be fine after some sleep."
Yan Shang found this strange: "You grew up in Chang'an since childhood. How could you be unaccustomed to the local environment?"
Seeing him sitting by the couch speaking softly and gently, clearly preparing for a long conversation, Mu Wan Yao recognized his usual tactics. Annoyed by his persistence, she muttered under her breath and pushed at his waist to hurry him along—
"Alright, alright! You just nag and nag all day long, so tedious. Hurry and go pay respects to your teacher. By the time you return, I'll surely be better. Don't I know my own body best?"
Yan Shang sighed helplessly. He understood her reluctance to see doctors stemmed from years of nausea from drinking medicine—now she refused medication even for minor illnesses.
He resolved to check on Mu Wan Yao upon his return. If she remained bedridden all day, he would insist on summoning the imperial physician to the residence, even if he had to force the matter. After instructing Qiu Si and other maids on the princess's care, Yan Shang finally took his leave with lingering concern.
The autumn rain fell incessantly.
Yan Shang stood before Lord Liu's gravestone, conducting the memorial for his teacher with utmost solemnity and quiet reverence. After offering three sticks of incense, he softly recounted court affairs from recent months, mentioning how his senior brothers had been watching over him in court.
When touching upon painful matters, he restrained himself, speaking only of joyful news and reporting successes while withholding troubles.
A woman's voice came from behind: "Second Brother Yan."
Turning around, his hair ribbon brushed against his blue robe, his eyelashes glistening with mountain rain. His clear and luminous demeanor made both Liu Ruozhu and her husband Lin Dao, who had just climbed up, pause momentarily.
Seeing his appearance, Liu Ruozhu stared blankly, momentarily transported back to her first encounter with Yan Shang.
Her eyes growing warm, she smiled: "No matter how many years pass, I can still find Second Brother Yan paying respects before Grandfather."
After exchanging greetings with Lin Dao, Yan Shang asked the couple: "Have you just returned to Chang'an?"
Lin Dao replied: "My wife and I only returned yesterday, solely to pay respects to Grandfather. After resting two days, we'll return to Hexi."
Yan Shang asked: "Any thoughts of returning to serve in Chang'an?"
A faint smile appeared on Lin Dao's typically cool expression: "No need for the Chancellor to trouble himself. Life outside is quite good... Ruozhu and I can collect more ancient texts and preserve historical artifacts..."
Yan Shang fell silent.
After a long pause, he said quietly: "I learned about you and Ruozhu burning the books... completely destroyed, with not a single volume preserved? You both have endured much."
Lin Dao shook his head. "Years of effort gone in smoke may seem tragic, but it was to save the common people. Both Ruozhu and I are content. No treasure, however precious, outweighs human lives."
Liu Ruozhu had been quietly listening to her husband and Yan Shang's conversation. Gazing at the tombstone, her mind filled with memories of her grandfather's voice and smile from years past.Her eyes began to sting again, but she refused to shed tears. Liu Ruozhu turned her head, masking the glistening corners of her eyes with a smile as she said to Yan Shang, "Second Brother Yan, did you know? Back in the day, my grandfather and the other lords made a bet about you. Now it seems they've all lost. Hurry down the mountain and claim your reward from them!"
Yan Shang played along, "What bet?"
Liu Ruozhu smiled warmly, "Chancellor Zhang and the others bet you'd become a Secretariat Drafter by thirty, while my grandfather wagered you'd be Chancellor by thirty. But you're only twenty-seven now, and already Chancellor.
"So, haven't they all lost, while you're the only winner?"
Yan Shang froze, his gaze shifting to the silent tombstone.
Bathed in wind and rain, the tombstone stood serene and tranquil, much like Lord Liu's stern composure.
Yan Shang murmured softly, "What meaning is there in winning such a bet?"
Liu Ruozhu's smile faded, and she fell silent.
After a moment, she whispered again, "Winning does have meaning. Great Wei needs Second Brother Yan, we all need Second Brother Yan... My grandfather's spirit in heaven would rejoice for you. His student has achieved so much—down in the underworld, Grandfather must be dragging the other lords to drink heartily, boasting about the brilliant student he taught."
Tears welled in her eyes as she laughed, "Though Grandfather seemed stern, he was quite lively in private."
She shared many memories of her grandfather. Lin Dao stood beside her, holding an umbrella, while attendants shielded Yan Shang from behind. Half-soaked by the rain, no one interrupted Liu Ruozhu.
The green mountains endure, the departed do not return, but new talents rise.
Perhaps this was the meaning—
That evening, when Mu Wan Yao woke, she learned that the Imperial Son-in-Law had returned. A maid mentioned Yan Shang had checked on her briefly before leaving, darkening Mu Wan Yao's expression. Having slept all day, she no longer felt unwell, so she rose to freshen up, intending to visit Yan Shang.
He had met his mentor that day and encountered Liu Ruozhu and her husband at the gravesite. He must be feeling troubled.
Mu Wan Yao found Yan Shang in an empty pavilion behind a corridor in the rear courtyard. He still wore the bamboo-green robe from his outing, but his hair had loosened from its tie, cascading over his shoulders. Sitting alone at a square table, eyes slightly closed, he poured himself cup after cup of wine.
Red maple leaves danced wildly in the wind, a scene of untamed elegance. A feast for the eyes.
As Yan Shang drank, his wine cup was snatched away. He turned to see Mu Wan Yao settling beside him, scolding playfully, "You've really picked up bad habits—now you're drinking alone like other men. You reek! Don't even think about sharing the bed tonight!"
Yan Shang's eyes were tinged red from drinking, his fair skin and slightly parted lips strikingly crimson.
Unfazed, he allowed Mu Wan Yao to take his cup, propping his chin as he chuckled lowly, "I haven't had much, and I'm not drowning sorrows. Just a little—I won't let myself get drunk."
Mu Wan Yao retorted, "Don't lie to me!"
Yan Shang smiled, "Why would I lie? Come closer and smell—is the wine strong? I truly only had a bit. Five cups, and I'll stop."
Mu Wan Yao paused, then sniffed toward his neck. He tilted his head back, amused as she nuzzled like a kitten, and pulled her into an embrace. Instantly, the pungent scent of alcohol assaulted her senses. Fighting nausea, she held her breath and endured it.After the discomfort subsided, Mu Wan Yao pushed Yan Shang away: "You smell awful, don't hug me! How many cups have you drunk?"
Yan Shang replied obediently: "Only three cups."
Mu Wan Yao thought for a moment, then generously allowed him to pour more wine. She said: "Then I'll drink with you. Men, after all, sometimes drinking isn't so bad—it's good to vent occasionally. You're feeling down today because you saw your teacher's granddaughter, thought of your teacher, and remembered too many people, right?"
Yan Shang responded with a low, muffled acknowledgment.
Seeing him like this, Mu Wan Yao didn't stop him from drinking anymore.
But Yan Shang's alcohol tolerance really hadn't improved much over all these years.
He had only drunk one more cup when his body swayed, and he rested his head on Mu Wan Yao's shoulder. Mu Wan Yao chuckled softly and was about to push him away when she felt Yan Shang wrap his arms around her waist, burying his face in the crook of her neck, remaining still for a long time.
Mu Wan Yao grew quiet, her demeanor softening as she allowed him to hold her without resisting.
Yan Shang lifted his face from her neck, his eyes glistening as if veiled in mist. He whispered, "There was actually... a time when I truly thought... truly had such terribly dark thoughts."
Mu Wan Yao replied, "Second Brother Yan would never have dark thoughts. What were you thinking?"
He fell silent.
Just as Mu Wan Yao thought he wouldn't speak again, he pressed close to her ear, his voice low and filled with anguish. He said, "There was a time when I truly thought, what does it matter if everyone else dies? I only want you to live, only want my teacher to live, only want Yang Si to live. I only care about you surviving—whether others live or die has nothing to do with me."
Mu Wan Yao was stunned.
She tried to look down at him.
But he buried his face against the nape of her neck, refusing to lift his head.
Holding her waist tightly, he murmured, "These words should never be spoken... these dark thoughts should never arise when I'm sober... I can only take advantage of being drunk to quietly tell you. Once I sober up, I'll deny ever saying anything.
"Yao Yao, I only want you to live. In my heart, you are the most important, more important than anyone else, more important than the world, the nation, the people...
"Once I sober up... I won't admit it."
Tears shimmered in Mu Wan Yao's eyes.
A storm raged in her heart as she let him hold her. This was the first time she had heard him speak like this—perhaps it would be the only time. Tomorrow, he would deny it; tomorrow, he would still tilt the scales toward the nation, the world, and the common people.
But in the deepest part of his heart, he had said she ranked first.
Mu Wan Yao fought back tears.
Suddenly, she laughed. "It's worth it."
Yan Shang's eyelashes fluttered gently against her neck, tickling her.
Mu Wan Yao spoke with deep absorption and focus: "I have received the love I desired, and I have become the person I wanted to be. All my life, I will be grateful that I held onto you tightly. You are the greatest gift heaven has given me."
She poured herself more wine. Yan Shang tilted his head, lifting his face from her neck to watch her.
With bold enthusiasm, Mu Wan Yao declared, "A toast to heaven and earth!"
Yan Shang propped his chin on his hand, smiling as he watched her. Seeing his audacious wife raise her cup—without any of his meticulous demeanor—she downed it in one go, truly worthy of being called a heroine among women. Yan Shang gazed at her with envy, wondering when he could drink as freely as she did.
As he marveled at her, Mu Wan Yao's expression suddenly changed. She turned her head and vomited.
Yan Shang panicked, his face paling as he rushed to check on her—
That night, the Princess Residence urgently summoned imperial physicians. Three rounds of doctors came and went, examining The Eldest Princess.
After consulting, the physicians turned to the Imperial Son-in-Law sitting on the bed, holding the pale and listless princess in his arms.
Mu Wan Yao asked weakly, "Have I contracted some serious illness again?"
She felt deeply frustrated, almost hating her own body.
Despite years of careful nurturing and usually being lively and energetic, at the slightest trouble, she would collapse instantly.
The physician smiled. "What serious illness? Congratulations, Your Highness and Imperial Son-in-Law—this is a joyous pulse!"
The physician awaited generous rewards from the princess and her husband.
An eerie silence fell over the room.Several imperial physicians looked up in confusion, seeing the peculiar expressions on Mu Wan Yao and Yan Shang's faces.
Mu Wan Yao suspected they were quacks: "Are you mistaken? How could it be? I just have some illness again."
Yan Shang also said: "Perhaps you gentlemen could examine once more?"
The imperial physicians: "..."
They grew angry: "Such a simple pulse reading—do you think we old men can't recognize it? Does Your Highness and the Chancellor doubt our medical skills? If you distrust us so, why summon us here at all!"
Mu Wan Yao insisted they were wrong, while Yan Shang coaxed them gently to reexamine.
The result remained the same—a pregnancy pulse.
The couple stared at each other, both utterly dazed. It was Qiu Si who reacted quickly, happily leading the maids to seek rewards: "Congratulations, Your Highness! Congratulations, Chancellor! Your Highness, such joyous news calls for red envelopes for the physicians."
Yan Shang snapped back to reality and hurriedly agreed.
Suppressing his own bewilderment, Yan Shang endlessly pondered how Mu Wan Yao could possibly be pregnant. Escorting the physicians out, he unconsciously pulled one aside into a corner to confirm once more if they might be mistaken. Only after receiving repeated assurances did Yan Shang inquire about necessary precautions.
The physician sighed inwardly at the young couple's disoriented state. Having long attended to the princess's pulses, he naturally understood her physical condition—especially considering how the late Emperor had forced that medicine upon the Chancellor back then...
Stroking his beard, the physician smiled: "Chancellor Yan need not doubt. Perhaps that medicine truly drove some elements away back then, or perhaps Her Highness's constitution has restored itself over the years... In any case, Her Highness is genuinely with child. However, given her previous... condition, this pregnancy will likely be difficult and prone to miscarriage. You both must exercise extreme caution."
Yan Shang froze: "It will be very difficult?"
The physician nodded.
After a moment's thought, Yan Shang bowed in gratitude before having maids accompany the physician to prepare medications. Returning to the chamber, he anxiously relayed the physician's words to Mu Wan Yao.
Contrary to her earlier skepticism, Mu Wan Yao had now regained her composure and grown delighted. Upon hearing her pregnancy was fragile, she immediately pressed her hands protectively over her still-flat abdomen.
Yan Shang hesitated: "If that's truly the case, perhaps it would be better..."
Mu Wan Yao: "No!"
Yan Shang chuckled ruefully: "I haven't even finished speaking, yet you already know what I was going to say?"
Mu Wan Yao: "You were definitely going to suggest we give up—that since we've already accepted our childless state and the fetus is unstable, I should be spared the suffering. But I refuse. I want this child."
Her gaze grew focused and stubborn. Fearing Yan Shang might still try to persuade her otherwise, she shifted to kneel on the bed facing him.
Cupping his face, she made him look into her eyes: "I must bear Second Brother Yan a child. I must have a child that belongs to us. I'll be extremely, extremely careful... and Second Brother Yan will take good care of me, won't you?
"We haven't even tried yet—why should we give up? I believe I can endure this hardship. What are you afraid of?"
Yan Shang watched her quietly.
He asked: "Do you truly want it this much?"
Mu Wan Yao: "I want it specially, exceptionally, so desperately it drives me mad! I could accept not having one, but now that I do, I'll never let go! Second Brother Yan and I are so good together—you're so outstanding, and I'm so remarkable too—why shouldn't we have a child?
"This is heaven's compensation to me. No matter how difficult, I'll endure it!"
Yan Shang fell silent. Bending down, he gathered her into his embrace.Mu Wan Yao murmured in his embrace, "But the Emperor didn't allow you... How could there still be a child?"
Yan Shang replied absentmindedly, "Perhaps some of the medicine was forced out."
He frowned, "I wonder if it will affect the fetus."
Mu Wan Yao grew anxious as well, "Then I won't drink anymore."
The two began to rejoice and discuss these matters. One answer they both tacitly avoided—perhaps, as Liu Wenji had said, he had helped them without their knowledge.
But that was all in the past—
Thus, another half-year passed.
Great Wei successfully negotiated peace with the Southern Barbarians. The court officials had expected Wei Shu to be promoted as a result. Young and capable, Wei Shu could very well occupy the position of chancellor.
Moreover, Wei Shu represented the aristocratic families.
The noble clans secretly hoped for one of their own to rise and rival Chancellor Yan. However, Wei Shu submitted a memorial to the young Emperor, requesting to be sent on another diplomatic mission. Unconcerned with the expectations and schemes of the aristocratic families, Wei Shu only did what he wished.
The young man articulated his ideals clearly in the court: "...Though the Southern Barbarians have been pacified, the surrounding nations grow restless because of it. Moreover, while Great Wei has settled terms with the Southern Barbarians, their lands are impoverished. The specifics still require our people to see for themselves and provide aid. I am willing to be that person."
His eldest brother, growing anxious, immediately interjected in court, "This mission could take years, with no return to the court! Your future is bright—why do this?"
Why not stabilize in the central government for a few years and wait to become chancellor? Why not marry, have children, and fulfill the roles of husband and father?
Why must Wei Juyuan always be like this!
Wei Shu bowed, facing Yan Shang, and saluted him, "I request Chancellor Yan's approval of my memorial. I make this choice for the millions of people of Great Wei, for the survival of our nation. Court disputes are not my desire. My only wish is—do good deeds, and do not question the future."
Yan Shang studied Wei Shu, slowly helping him up, and said gently, "How could I dare not acknowledge Vice Minister Wei's devotion to the nation and his family?"
The young Emperor on the throne watched the exchange between his ministers, feeling his blood stir with excitement. He eagerly longed to grow up and participate in the governance of these capable officials—with so many talented ministers in Great Wei, how could the dynasty not prosper?—
At the start of the new year, Yan Shang presided over the imperial examinations, while Wei Shu, holding the imperial tally, set out on his grand diplomatic mission with the young Emperor seeing him off for ten li.
Compared to his previous mission, Wei Shu now served as the chief envoy. Whether it took years, a decade, or even decades—even if his entire life was spent in turmoil for this cause—he was prepared.
Spring rain drizzled ceaselessly in Chang'an.
Yan Shang and the heavily pregnant Mu Wan Yao visited Princess Yuyang's family and, on their return, boarded the carriage back to their residence. As the couple discussed political matters inside the carriage, a young scholar suddenly rushed out from an alley, clutching a scroll, and ran after the princess's carriage.
The scholar shouted, "Chancellor Yan, Chancellor Yan! This humble scholar seeks to submit his literary works to you! I saw you once at the Pleasure Quarter banquet, and you praised me—do you remember?
"Your Highness, Your Highness! Please review my poetry! I've heard that Your Highness is a renowned talented lady—please help this humble scholar!"Pedestrians on the street stopped and watched as this scholar, drenched like a drowned rat, chased after the Princess Residence's carriage. The passersby cast sympathetic glances, thinking that this man must have been unable to gain entry through the princess's gates and could only resort to intercepting the carriage on the road.
However, what status did Chancellor Yan hold? What status did The Eldest Princess possess? How could they stop their carriage for an ordinary scholar?
Yet this scholar remained obstinately deluded, desperately chasing the carriage while shouting with both despair and anticipation:
"This humble scholar has chanced upon exquisite verses! Last night in a dream, I met an immortal who bestowed upon me these brilliantly composed lines! This is a poem written by an immortal, not by me—truly an immortal! Chancellor Yan, Your Highness, please listen..."
Unable to catch up with the carriage, his heart heavy with sorrow, he gradually slowed to a halt. He stared blankly as the carriage moved away, and just when he had abandoned all hope, the carriage came to a stop.
He saw Yan Shang holding an umbrella while assisting Mu Wan Yao as they alighted together.
The married couple turned to look back at this impoverished scholar.
Yan Shang smiled: "Didn't you say you'd chanced upon exquisite verses? That an immortal bestowed poetry? Since you shouted so loudly, why not let Her Highness and me hear them."
Since becoming pregnant, Mu Wan Yao had grown more gentle in demeanor, her temper gradually improving as if truly embodying maternal love. She too smiled along with Yan Shang at the poor scholar: "Recite them then."
Rain slanted through the air, the alleyway damp and slick, and the scholar felt greatly encouraged—
Yan Xiaozhou had settled in Liaodong after meeting Yang Si's parents.
During the day she would go out gathering herbs, accompanying physicians to treat patients, and at night she would return to keep the elderly couple company. Though Yang Si's parents urged her not to trouble herself, she would laugh cheerfully, claiming she was very happy and content.
Towering mountains stood majestic, covered in lush greenery.
Yan Xiaozhou stood among the mountain streams, carrying a bamboo basket on her back with Han Shu Xing following behind. Leaning on a walking stick as she navigated the difficult mountain path, something suddenly fell. She didn't notice, but Han Shu Xing picked it up for her.
Han Shu Xing: "My lady, you dropped something."
Yan Xiaozhou turned back puzzled, then her eyes suddenly stilled. She saw in Han Shu Xing's hand a small golden bell, its golden pellet removed.
With its golden pellet gone, this bell would never ring again. It would never produce clear, crisp sounds again, never again affect soldiers on the battlefield or startle enemies.
Yan Xiaozhou looked down at the bell, then slowly reached out to take it into her palm. She gently pressed her cheek against the bell and closed her eyes.
Across the mountains and plains, clouds drifted and mist wreathed.
She thought of that person, remembered how he said he loved hearing her voice most. Because he loved her voice most, she had given him this bell.
In this lifetime, what exactly is love?
Is it something that can be ground down, or forgotten? Can it fade away, or become engraved in bones?
Does it arrive like roaring tidal waves, carving itself into memory, or flow like spring water—ceaseless and everlasting?
Han Shu Xing watched the lady with confusion as Yan Xiaozhou suddenly cupped her hands around her mouth like a trumpet and shouted toward the mountains: "Third Lang—
"Third Lang! Third Lang—!"
Her voice grew hoarse with emotion, feelings flowing like spring water!
The entire mountain seemed to tremble, birds taking flight with startled cries.
The forest echoed her call, clouds gathering in response. Yan Xiaozhou clutched the bell, staring blankly at it all. Suddenly tears fell from her eyes, then just as suddenly a smile appeared. She shouted once more toward heaven and earth:
"Third Lang—"
She would wait for him forever and ever, forever and ever...!
Zhao Lingfei rode her horse through the vast desert.With a veil covering her face and dressed in practical attire, she rode ahead followed by several horses carrying companions who, like her, journeyed through Hexi with hearts set on upholding justice. Zhao Lingfei kept her followers in check while gradually building a reputation in the region. In a chaotic place like Hexi, where the imperial court couldn’t fully maintain order, there was a need for wandering heroes like her.
Rolling yellow sands swept across the desolate, lonely path. A young follower pointed toward a distant direction: "Milady, look—is that the diplomatic mission of Great Wei?!"
Zhao Lingfei abruptly turned her head.
She turned amidst the swirling yellow sands, beneath the setting sun.
She saw the endless expanse of desert, the broad official road, and Wei Shu leading a team in silence along the route. He noticed her too, his gaze meeting hers as sunlight fell upon him, shimmering like drifting snow.
He looked over quietly, then slowly offered her a gentle smile.
Through him, Zhao Lingfei saw shadows of many old acquaintances. She recalled Lord Liu’s death on the battlefield, her cousin’s tragic end, her father’s public execution… Astride her horse, she locked eyes with Wei Shu.
Years seemed to flow and intertwine between them.
From the Great Wei envoy group, a messenger approached: "Esteemed lady, our master wishes to hire your assistance for this diplomatic mission. Would you consider joining us?"
Zhao Lingfei stared intently at the youth standing in the desert, pure as clear snow. Light flickered in her eyes as she remained motionless, watching him—
In the heavy rain of Chang’an, the scholar drew the silk scroll containing his submission of literary works from his bundle. Facing the noble Mu Wan Yao and Yan Shang, he recited aloud:
“Apes and men once parted ways. / Just a few stones polished, childhood days. / Bronze and iron blazed in furnace flame— / Who could guess how long this game? / Mere thousands of winters’ claim. / Rarely does life grant laughter’s grace; / On battlefields, bows draw through space. / Blood has soaked the wilds’ embrace.
One reading done, hair turns to snow, / Only scattered traces left to know, / A few lines of records long ago. / The sacred deeds of kings and sage / Have deceived countless through the age. / How many true heroes engage? / After the fame of bandit lords, / Prince Chen rose, swinging his golden sword. / The song unfinished, dawn breaks abroad!”
Countless years, countless souls walking together. Time drifts like smoke; heroes vie and contend.
All converge in this present moment!
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