A couple of days later, rumors had already spread throughout the palace. 

Lin Min sat in Changle Palace, feeling both angered by the gossipers and anxious about the imprisonment of Lady Feng in the Lateral Courts. 

The assassin had been executed, and the eldest Mr. Lin was taken that night to the Court of Judicial Review for questioning. 

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Lin Min could not sit still all day and spent the night without sleeping. By the next morning, she sent a little eunuch to inquire about the situation. He returned reporting, “Niangniang, the officials from the court have submitted an edict stating that the madam is deeply implicated in the case. Although niangniang holds a noble status, it is not appropriate to keep any suspects in the palace. Just last evening, an officer from the Court of Judicial Review personally took her away.” 

The Court of Judicial Review’s prison was notorious. Startled, Lin Min spilled the tea in her hands, sitting as if pricked by needles. Immediately, she instructed a palace maid to apply her makeup and dress her properly so she could visit the emperor’s personal quarters. 

At that moment, Jing Ye had not yet risen. The little eunuch guarding the door dared not stop her and allowed her straight through the palace gates, where she encountered Ye Mao, who had come upon hearing the news. 

“Niangniang, please stop; it’s early, and His Majesty has not yet gotten up.” 

Ye Mao dared not let her enter; Jing Ye was already fatigued, often dozing during the day and easily disturbed from sleep at night. Even Gu Gongzi and the others were cautious; if anyone entered recklessly and disturbed His Majesty, it would be a grave offense. 

Lin Min ignored him and pushed her way inside, her delicate form making it hard for Ye Mao to stop her. He could only say, “Niangniang, aren’t you making things difficult for us servants below? It would be better to wait until daybreak, after we serve His Majesty breakfast, before coming in…” 

Lin Min, filled with urgency, snapped angrily in a shrill voice, “What would a eunuch understand! This empress’s mother’s life hangs by a thread, and if you obstruct me, whatever happens to her will be your fault!” 

Although Ye Mao was a servant, he had served Jing Ye since childhood and had a keen sense of people. No one had openly insulted him like this since the emperor ascended, and so he darkened his expression and exchanged a glance with the little eunuchs guarding the door. 

As Lin Min turned to enter, she found the palace doors firmly shut, with the little eunuchs standing in a row, heads bowed and hands at their sides, blocking her entry. 

With his arm draped casually over his whisk, Ye Mao calmly said, “Niangniang, this servant understands your concern for the safety of your mother. The bond between mother and daughter is deep, but we are not unwilling to be accommodating. However, your recklessness means that not only will you not vindicate your mother, but you may also incur the grave sin of disrespect. That’s hardly worth it.” 

Lin Min felt deeply humiliated as the empress to be treated this way by a eunuch. After a tense standoff, she gritted her teeth and coldly laughed, “Then this empress will wait here. When His Majesty awakens, please ensure he is informed.” 

Ye Mao sighed inwardly and said, “Song Zhen’er.”

The little eunuch stepped forward, saying, “Teacher.” 

Ye Mao instructed, “You take two people and wait here.” He then turned to Lin Min and said, “Niangniang, this servant must prepare for His Majesty’s early rise, so this servant shall take my leave.” 

As he spoke, he withdrew but carefully walked through a small door by the chamber, quietly moving to the other side of the beaded curtain. 

As the curtains rustled and made a noise, the person sleeping on the outer edge of the huge bed opened his eyes, turned his head, saw Ye Mao, frowned, and signaled for him to be quiet. He then slowly sat up and slipped a garment on before getting out of bed. 

Meanwhile, Jing Ye, suddenly feeling the absence of warmth beside him, wanted to move closer to the other side of the bed, but Gu Hong, sleeping on the other side, reached out to hold him. 

Lu Baizang followed Ye Mao to the outer chamber and said, “What happened?” 

Ye Mao replied, “It shouldn’t have disturbed His Majesty and gongzi’s sleep, but now the Empress is standing outside waiting to plead her case with him.” 

Morning light filtered through the window, and Lu Baizang narrowed his eyes, impatiently saying, “The Empress? Here to plead for her mother?” 

Ye Mao said, “What else would it be? But His Majesty is still asleep. Even if he wakes up, there’s no room for negotiation in this matter. Isn’t it just stirring trouble for the Empress to disturb his rest?” 

Lu Baizang glanced back into the inner chamber and waved lazily, saying, “Just tell her that His Majesty was seriously injured by the assassin and cannot muster the strength to argue with her. If she continues to pester, Lady Feng’s situation will only worsen.” 

If Lin Min, standing outside the door, were to enter and see the man she had been thinking about for months being so cold and unfeeling, it would likely break her heart into pieces. 

Ye Mao had no choice but to convey Lu Baizang’s words with adjustments, delivering them to Lin Min, who was pacing outside anxiously. Her face turned pale, and she had to be supported by her maids as she returned to Changle Palace without a word. 

After a while, Jing Ye rose from his bed. When Ye Mao came in to serve him, he reported what the empress had said: “Does His Majesty wish to see the Empress?” 

Jing Ye asked him to adjust his sleeves and answered, “No need. Whatever her reasons for pleading, zhen cannot release Lady from the Court of Judicial Review on a whim. Let her wait in Changle Palace for news.” 

According to reports sent from the Qingyu Pavilion, Lady Feng had indeed schemed against Lin Xiaosheng’s birth mother and had illicit affairs with her brother-in-law. However, Lin Min, raised in the inner chambers, although influenced by her upbringing, had not committed any crimes herself and thus, as a helpless woman, should not be punished. 

Gu Hong placed the report on the low carved table beside him, saying, “The censor has suggested that Empress Lin is also implicated in this case and requests for her to be temporarily detained in the Lateral Courts until the situation becomes clear. What does Your Majesty think…?” 

Jing Ye said, “I saw in the reports that the daughter of the Fu family, Fu Zengqi, was also a candidate chosen to enter the palace?” 

Gu Hong smiled and replied, “This person is indeed quite competent, although a bit narrow-minded.” 

Jing Ye stated, “There’s no need to take notice of this. We both know the reasoning behind this matter; let’s minimize any implication as much as possible.” 

However, the next day, more officials submitted requests on this issue. The first was one of personal interest, followed by many who were genuinely concerned for the emperor’s safety. 

After all, Changle Palace was the closest to the emperor’s personal quarters. The main instigator of the assassination plot had been captured that night, and yet had been found lying in the same bed as the empress’s own mother. The connection was not to be taken lightly; should it turn out the empress was also involved, or if she acted out of grievance for Lady Feng’s imprisonment, it would be too late. 

The Minister of the Court of Judicial Review also submitted a report, stating that since the case had not yet been clarified, it was prudent to exercise further caution to ensure the emperor’s safety. 

A censor initiated a wave of officials who pressed their insights forward. Jing Ye could not refuse and ordered the empress to temporarily move away from Changle Palace, but not to the Lateral Courts, which was known for its sparse and difficult conditions. Instead, she would be moved to the more secluded Chengying Pavilion. 

“While it may be a temporary stay in Chengying Pavilion,” Jing Ye commanded, “if anyone acts out of selfish motives and engages in behavior that disregards the imperial dignity, they will be dealt with according to palace regulations.” 

Ye Mao bowed, saying, “Yes, this servant will send the word out immediately.” 

The news of the empress’s move from Changle Palace spread like wildfire, quickly reaching every corner of the palace. An elderly supervisor eunuch of the library heard a few words from someone from the imperial kitchen and brought a food box into the library, saying, “Ai, Lord Feng, the imperial kitchen has sent over the lunch.” 

Feng Ling put down the pen he had just dipped in ink and got up to receive it, saying, “Thank you, gonggong.” 

The old eunuch smiled, “Please don’t mention it, my lord. How could an old servant like me take such credit? The palace is strict, and the library has been lonely for so long. Other lords would avoid coming here, but here you are, staying from morning till night and willingly taking over others’ shifts. Ai, that’s never happened before.” 

Feng Ling smiled and replied, “It’s just that I can’t rest easy.” 

The old eunuch took this as him being worried about the pile of ancient books that were about to be reduced to ashes, sneering inwardly at the bookworm, but suddenly heard Lord Feng ask, “Gonggong, have you inquired about how His Majesty is faring in the palace? I heard His Majesty was injured; how is his condition?” 

The old eunuch replied with a sigh, “This old servant has only exchanged a few words. How could someone like me grasp the activities in the palace? This old servant did hear from the kitchen people earlier that the empress has moved to Chengying Pavilion.” 

Feng Ling, who had witnessed the officials’ appeals earlier, was not surprised at this news and said, “The Empress is of noble status; although she has been entangled in this case for the moment, she is still the rightful Empress married to His Majesty.” 

The old eunuch seemed to have been in the seldom-visited library for too long. He held a favorable impression of the gentle “bookworm” and couldn’t help but add, “That’s true, my lord, and you, as a person of high nobility, naturally value status. But this old servant has spent a lifetime in this palace, and whether it’s a noble empress or a mere concubine, everyone endures the same hardship when cut off from imperial favor.” 

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Feng Ling’s brow twitched slightly as his fingers lightly brushed against the worn pages of ancient texts. 

“Speaking of which, with the Empress now moved to the secluded Chengying Pavilion, it seems His Majesty is left with only that Wuhuan princess by his side. Aiyoh…” The old eunuch saw Feng Ling remain silent and thought he had overstepped, hastily adding with a laugh, “This servant spoke out of turn; please forgive me, my lord.” 

Feng Ling came back to his senses and smiled, “It’s nothing.”

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On the eighth day of the fifth month, it was an auspicious day calculated by the Imperial Astronomical Bureau. 

The emperor was to enter the ancestral temple before noon to offer sacrifices to heaven and earth, ancestors, and deities. Following that, he would return to the Taihe Hall where music would be played, songs sung, and officials would come to pay their respects. 

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With cups clinking and dance and song continuing, the festivities persisted until nightfall, when the thick red candles illuminated the Changle Palace as brightly as day. 

Lin Min sat quietly on the wedding bed draped in red silk, only able to see the exquisite cloud-and-baby pattern embroidered on the bridal veil and the hands twisting the embroidered handkerchief in her lap. 

A palace maid standing nearby softly said, “Niangniang, it’s almost time.” (TN: honorific for the emperor’s wives)

Lin Min opened her eyes a bit wider and stiffened her back, the flowing cloud patterns before her slightly swayed. 

Just as the palace maid had said, before she could finish a cup of tea, a voice called out from outside, “His Majesty has arrived—” 

Lin Min tightened her grip on the handkerchief, her red fingernails digging into her palm, but she had no time to think about it. 

Footsteps passed through the beaded curtains and stopped not far away. 

Aside from the rustling of silk garments, there was complete silence. A moment later, she heard the voice of the Master of Ceremonies declare, “The ceremony is complete; rise—” 

Then someone stood up and walked toward the wedding bed, taking hold of the ceremonial scale and slowly drawing back the veil that obscured her view. 

Lin Min bit her lip and raised her head. The first thing that met her eyes was a robe embroidered with a coiling dragon in gold thread on a black background, bordered in red satin, then the clear and bright features of the person in front of her, with phoenix eyes that glistened softly in the candlelight. 

Lin Min felt slightly reassured but then thought of something that made her cheeks flush slightly. 

Jing Ye had been so busy throughout the day that he hadn’t even had time to rest or drink tea. He took the cup of wedding wine presented by the palace maid and said, “Empress.” 

With the palace maid’s assistance, Lin Min stood up and accepted the wine cup, saying, “Your Majesty.” 

Jing Ye nodded and drank it all in one go. 

Lin Min did the same, smiling as she said, “This consort….” 

But Jing Ye spoke first, saying, “The empress is also tired today; let the palace staff help you rest well. Zhen still has to make a trip to Fengyang Palace.” 

Lin Min’s smile faltered slightly, but Jing Ye had already placed the wine cup back on the tray held by the palace maid. 

Once this was over, he could go back to his sleeping quarters and catch some much-needed rest, while also asking Lu Baizang to prepare something to soothe his rumbling stomach. 

Jing Ye turned and walked out, with Ye Mao before him pulling aside the curtains. As Lin Min watched the emperor leave, she instinctively opened her mouth to call him back, but the palace maid beside her stopped her, saying: 

“Niangniang, His Majesty is the Son of Heaven. Not to mention the Wuhuan princess who has already been made a consort, but even the several gongzi who have accompanied him for years, it is common for him to have many in the harem. Even if niangniang can keep His Majesty here tonight, how many days in the future would niangniang be able to do so?” 

Lin Min turned to look at her, and the palace maid’s calm gaze seemed to see through her every thought. 

With her eyes downcast, she placed the wine cup back into the tray after finishing the wedding wine and sat back down on the wedding bed. 

The palace maid waited silently with her head lowered, ready for Lin Min’s next instruction. 

After a long pause, Lin Min seemed to have resigned herself and nodded. 

The palace maid spoke to the other palace attendants present, “Why aren’t you coming to help niangniang change her clothes? You two, come here and help niangniang take off her phoenix crown.” 

Then she comforted Lin Min, saying, “Niangniang need not be too sorrowful. His Majesty cares for you very much; this servant heard from the little eunuch that because he sympathizes with you, being far from your family and unable to return home, His Majesty has decreed that the Fucui Pavilion be granted to Madam Lin for her temporary stay. Once your three day visit home ends, she can then return to Jiangnan. If she wishes to visit you in the palace in the future, she’ll still be welcomed at the Fucui Pavilion.” 

Lin Min smiled in response. 

The palace maids brought a silver basin and mouthwash for her, helping her cleanse her face. One maid reached out to remove her crown, but Lin Min stopped her, saying, “Wait a moment.” 

Lin Min gently brushed her fingers over the royal phoenix crown, which was adorned with pearls and emeralds, and the grand scarlet robe she wore, before retracting her hand and saying, “Go ahead.” 

Just as they were about to loosen her garments, suddenly a commotion erupted at the pearl curtain, and a little eunuch hurried in and knelt, saying, “Niangniang… niangniang!” 

The palace maid asked, “What are you in such a hurry about? Don’t you see niangniang changing her clothes?” 

The little eunuch replied, “His Majesty has been attacked in the Imperial Garden! The Black Guards are currently sending people to search all the palace quarters to capture the traitor tonight!” 

“What?” Lin Min stood up immediately. As the maids were helping her take off her crown, she bumped into one of them, causing the crown to fall to the ground, its smooth pearls trembling incessantly. 

In the following hour, the situation developed in a way that completely caught Lin Min off guard. 

The emperor had been attacked, and the Black Guards swiftly joined forces with the Imperial Guard to search the various palaces, capturing the assassin and also apprehending her mother. 

It was because they caught the traitor who had brought the assassin into the palace in Lady Feng’s quarters at Fucui Pavilion. 

Lin Min recognized this traitor, who was none other than the eldest Mr. Lin, who had returned to the Lin family after years of wandering outside. He was her uncle who had lost his inheritance due to his impotence. 

It was too absurd, too ridiculous. 

The change was so sudden that Lin Min felt at a loss, hurriedly having the maids help her change into her normal clothes, and she rushed to the emperor’s personal quarters. 

The emperor was being treated by the imperial physician within his personal quarters, while Lin Xiaosheng was the one to meet her in the front hall. 

Lin Min stood in the great hall, gazing at Lin Xiaosheng, who silently sipped tea. She managed to force out, “Elder Brother.” 

It was indeed strange; although she was now formally recognized as the empress, the mother of a nation, with a status much higher than Lin Xiaosheng, who was just a sycophantic male pet, she still felt fearful. 

Lin Xiaosheng lifted the lid of the tea set and glanced up at her, saying, “His Majesty cannot meet with you due to his injuries. If you have something to say, you can do so here.” 

His Majesty has been injured; it should be her, his empress, who is by his side! This was what Lin Min wanted to say but could not bring herself to voice. 

Instead, she said, “I… this empress believes that the matter of the assassin is absolutely unrelated to my mother. I ask that you please inform His Majesty to release her as soon as possible.” 

Lin Xiaosheng took a sip of tea and said, “As long as it is confirmed she is innocent, she will indeed be released. But, she was found lying on the same bed as the traitor in plain sight. If we say that this is unrelated to the case, it will be hard to silence the public’s gossip.” 

Lin Min’s eyes widened; she was not foolish. The tone and expression of Lin Xiaosheng suddenly made her think of another possibility. 

She was gasping for breath, nearly shouting, “It was you! You set this up!” 

Lin Xiaosheng met her gaze directly, saying, “You and your mother look very alike.” 

Lin Min trembled all over, “You dared to plot against His Majesty under the guise of framing my mother! How audacious! I… step aside! This empress must report this to His Majesty!” 

Lin Xiaosheng looked at her, saying nonchalantly, “It’s a pity your brains didn’t inherit from her.” 

He stood up from his seat, ignoring Lin Min, who was filled with anger and panic, and returned to the sleeping quarters. 

By the next day, the morning court was temporarily canceled due to the emperor’s injury. The entire court knew that the Lin family and Lady Feng were embroiled in the plot against the emperor by the Zhao faction, but what spread even more widely was that this widow of the Lin family, the current empress’s mother, was caught lying in the bed of her own traitor brother-in-law. 

Such rumors always delighted people, and with some scheming individuals fanning the flames, by evening, most of the people in the capital had heard about it. It would not be long before the Jiangnan Lin family would catch wind of the news. 

How could a woman who violated her integrity and betrayed her husband be seen again? Moreover, she was also entangled in the assassination plot against the emperor, a prisoner today would become a ghost under the blade tomorrow, and it wouldn’t be long before the position of the head of the Lin family would change. 

The dim light seeped through the window, and Lin Xiaosheng passed through the dark and damp corridor, following the lead of a prison guard who stopped him, saying, “Gongzi, we’ve arrived.” 

Lin Xiaosheng saw a woman in the cell, huddled against the wall, and said, “Mother.” 

Lady Feng opened her eyes; she had never felt so disheveled in her life. She had been pulled from her sleep, barely able to put on her embroidered robe and pin up her hair before being thrown into the Lateral Courts. (TN: housing concubines and administrative offices)

“It was you who did this,” Lady Feng said fiercely, clutching her clothes tightly. “You dared to let someone attempt to assassinate His Majesty…! No, wait, it was you, and the emperor…” 

“Guessing so quickly?” Lin Xiaosheng replied. “No wonder she lost to you.” 

Lady Feng suddenly realized how self-assured she had been. She thought Lin Xiaosheng would confront her with full force, but she hadn’t expected him merely to raise a finger and put her underfoot. 

“A battle for power is nothing like the petty games women play in the inner chambers,” Lin Xiaosheng stroked the waistband at his side. “Although she gave birth to me and then abandoned me, she has some maternal kindness remaining. You have ruined her reputation, and now I’ll ruin yours too.” 

Lady Feng’s fingers trembled. 

“I want you to give back what you have taken from her… that should be enough.” 

Today, His Majesty did not need to attend morning court and was in a good mood, aside from feeling some soreness in his waist and legs after being overly indulgent last night.  

Lu Baizang had prepared a bowl of lotus seed soup for him, and Jing Ye found it tasty, drinking a full bowl. He looked up to see Lu Baizang watching him, and said, “It tastes good. Want to try some?” 

Lu Baizang leaned over and licked his lips, “After it passes through Your Majesty’s mouth, it tastes even better.”  

Jing Ye: “…”  

Just then, a eunuch entered and announced, “Your Majesty, the Noble Consort seeks an audience.” 

Before Jing Ye could respond, Lu Baizang said first, “Your Majesty is still injured; let her be dismissed.” 

The little eunuch looked eagerly at the emperor, and Jing Ye nodded, instructing him to follow Lu Baizang’s suggestion. 

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Once the eunuch left, Jing Ye took a few more sips of his soup but noticed Lu Baizang still staring at him with a serious expression and asked, “What’s wrong?” 

Lu Baizang said, “I heard that those who excel at the Zhezhi dance have impressive waist strength. I wonder which of us Your Majesty likes more when compared with the Noble Consort.” 

Jing Ye threw a lotus seed at Lu Baizang’s face.

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As the urgency of the war intensified, the Wuhuan emissary quickly agreed to Jing Ye’s conditions. Although they deviated somewhat from their ideal terms, they were sufficient to resolve Wuhuan’s pressing needs.

This emperor, not yet twenty and seemingly weak and gentle, demonstrated a firm and uncompromising stance when discussing terms, leaving the Wuhuan emissary both troubled and reassured. 

At the very least, the other understood the stakes involved, so while the Wuhuan people might not win the war, they certainly would not lose it.

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As for the future… there are no eternal enemies, and no eternal allies.

Jing Ye watched the Wuhuan emissary take the proposed terms, then ordered a curved dagger to be brought forth by his attendants. The hilt was worn from heavy use, and as the blade was drawn from its sheath, the emissary lightly brushed his thumb against the sharp tip, staining it with blood. 

Pressing his thumb down, he left a blood imprint on the paper.

The Wuhuan emissary knelt on one knee and said, “Your Majesty, on behalf of the Wuhuan King, this humble subject thanks you.”

Jing Ye replied, “Please rise. The supplies and troops will be delivered to your king promptly after zhen issues the decree. And you may stay in the capital for a while longer to see your princess married.”

The Wuhuan emissary smiled and bowed his head, “Your Majesty’s kindness is overwhelming, but this humble subject has a small request outside the terms we discussed, and hopes Your Majesty can fulfill it.”

Jing Ye responded, “Speak.”

The Wuhuan emissary said, “This humble subject heard that when Your Majesty led an expedition to the southwest, there was a young general who commanded an army of three thousand and defeated tens of thousands of cavalry from the Xijiang. This humble subject hopes this time the reinforcements to the north can be led by this general.”

Jing Ye was taken aback for a moment, realizing that he was referring to Li Tingqiu.

The Wuhuan emissary waited for a while, but there was only silence. He looked up at the young emperor, who had spoken decisively during the negotiations, now biting his lip and appearing uncertain.

The Wuhuan emissary asked, “Your Majesty…?”

Jing Ye paused and said, “That battle was indeed brilliantly fought, but zhen‘s soldiers suffered considerable casualties as well. That General Li you mentioned has already been dispatched to defend Bixue Pass, and it hasn’t been long since the conflict has passed; he still needs to recuperate.”

The Wuhuan emissary burst into laughter and said, “Your Majesty, our young men from Wuhuan can take to the battlefield with just a curved dagger and conquer the land once mounted. Since that General Li was able to defeat the fierce Xijiang warriors, why would he mind some minor injuries?”

Jing Ye thought to himself that what that was called was reckless, but after a moment of silence, he replied calmly, “Since you insist, zhen cannot be seen as stingy with talented individuals. Let him lead his troops north.”

The Wuhuan emissary bowed and smiled, “Thank you, Your Majesty.”

As Jing Ye left the imperial study, he faintly heard the sound of music, so he asked, “Where is the music coming from?”

Ye Mao listened for a moment and said, “It seems to be coming from the direction of the Yihu Lake.” After some thought, he added, “The nearest palace to Yihu Lake is Fengyang Palace.”

Fengyang Palace? That “Bright Moon over the ”… Jing Ye recalled her height, which was even taller than his own, and he felt a twitch at the corner of his eye. “We will return to the palace.”

Ye Mao promptly assisted him into the imperial sedan.

Meanwhile, several palace maids were accompanying Lin Min around to enjoy the sights.

With the emperor lacking consorts, sisters or daughters, the palace staff understood that Lin Min would be the future mother of the nation, and they behaved with utmost respect, not daring to speak out of turn.

One of the palace maids supported Lin Min and pointed to a nearby palace gate, saying, “Once you are officially conferred, recognized with the phoenix seal, you will reside in this Changle Palace. This was specially built for the empress by the founding emperor, and the subsequent emperors have also made numerous renovations. No other place in the palace, except His Majesty’s personal quarters, is as grand and luxurious.”

Lin Min asked, “Does His Majesty usually rest in his personal quarters?”

The palace maid responded, “Yes, aside from attending court and dealing with documents in the imperial study, His Majesty mostly stays in his personal quarters, though… he often visits the several gongzi.”

Lin Min’s eyes flickered, and she took the palace maid’s hand, smiling gently, “I am new to the palace and still need to learn many customs and practices, not to mention the preferences and habits of everyone residing in the palace. Since you are an experienced palace lady here, I shall need your guidance.”

The palace maid smiled, saying, “His Majesty ordered this servant to assist the noble lady in becoming familiar with palace matters and to maintain appropriate decorum; this is my duty.”

Lin Min looked at her thoughtfully and asked with a smile, “I heard that there is a young prince’s heir residing in His Majesty’s personal quarters?”

The palace maid replied, “He is the young prince. His Majesty treats the young prince as if he were his own child.”

“Oh?” Lin Min stopped in her tracks and inquired, “Then the heir to the throne…?”

The palace maid glanced at her, bending slightly, “This servant dare not speculate, but the legitimate firstborn son is traditionally the stipulated heir according to ancestral customs.”

Lin Min’s finely drawn brows furrowed.

This silence did not last long; a gentle breeze blew, and over the palace walls, the sound of a pipa could be faintly heard.

Lin Min lifted her head, and the palace maid listened carefully, chuckling, “It must be coming from Fengyang Palace.”

Lin Min asked, “Which direction?”

The palace maid smiled, “The noble lady may simply follow this servant.”

Yihu Lake was a lake dug out following the river’s course within the palace, lined with peach and apricot trees. There was a waterside pavilion constructed along the bank with a name personally written by the previous emperor, called “Crossing Fragrance.”

Lin Min followed the palace maid from behind the rockery; the pavilion was open on all sides. From a distance, she could see someone reclined on a soft couch, surrounded by several exquisitely featured maidservants—some were playing the qin, others the pipa, all laughing and playing freely without restraint.

One of the young maids glared in indignation, exclaiming, “These women from the barbaric lands don’t know the rules or proper conduct; how can they be fit to be His Majesty’s consort!”

Lin Min shot her a glance, her gaze carrying an imposing demeanor, and the maid quickly fell silent.

Lin Min smiled and said, “In the future, we will all be sisters in the palace; we should meet and get to know each other early on.”

As they approached, Lin Min noticed that the Wuhuan princess was still veiled. The accompanying maids rose to greet them, but the princess remained leaning back, not offering a seat, merely raising her eyelids to appraise Lin Min from head to toe.

This behavior was quite arrogant and disrespectful. Although Lin Min did not reveal it on her face, she smiled faintly while one of the maids fetched a brocade stool for her to sit upon.

Lin Min softly said, “May I ask how old the princess is? Since we both belong to His Majesty, we ought to refer to each other as sisters.”

One of the nearby maidservants playfully responded, “The princess has just turned sixteen; may we inquire about your age, my lady?”

Lin Min’s maid retorted angrily, “Who are you? How could you interrupt when the noble lady is speaking!”

The maidservant did not take offense and continued to smile, “The princess is naturally shy and speaks Han poorly, which is why since entering the palace, this servant has spoken on her behalf. This sister has quite a temper; may I ask who you are?”

Lin Min, feeling irritated, said, “No need for more words,” and her maid stepped back behind her.

Lin Min continued, smiling, “I just turned seventeen this January, so I shall call you little sister.”

The princess appraised her for a moment more; her veiled face obscured her expression, but it was still that same maid who smiled and remarked, “The princess has only one elder brother, the Wuhuan King, and now with a sister, she is not alone in the palace.”

Although Lin Min was still smiling, her eyes conveyed some displeasure. Even if the princess spoke Han poorly, she should at least speak up a little; this air of arrogance—did she really believe she would have the emperor’s exclusive favor in the future?

Come to think of it, she was merely a sacrificial pawn sent from the border tribes seeking peace.

While contemplating this, Lin Min also forgot that she was simply a pawn of the Lin family, used to secure their standing in the capital.

Their interaction was quickly relayed to Jing Ye’s ears by the people in Qingyu Pavilion. He found it amusing that the eldest daughter of the Lin family seemed to be treating his palace as her own private residence.

He then recalled the “Bright Moon over the Mountain,” who was taller than himself, feeling rather distressed as he asked Gu Gongzi, “Are all Wuhuan women this tall?”

Gu Hong chuckled and said, “This subject once read in the ‘Records of the Four Directions’ that the Wuhuan people are indeed taller than those from Central Plains. Moreover, this princess has practiced dance for many years, so her tall physique is not surprising.”

Jing Ye pinched his arm, feeling somewhat disgruntled. “Is it too late for zhen to practice now?”

Gu Hong placed his hand on Jing Ye’s back, sliding down his spine and waist. “What is Your Majesty planning to practice?”

The most attractive features of Jing Ye were his butterfly bone structure, waistline, neck, collarbone, and chest—the skin was delicate, and the muscles well-balanced.

Gu Hong tenderly kissed the exposed skin at the back of Jing Ye’s neck, thinking that before long, this person would be toasting and tying the knot with a woman. Even if they had agreed it was just a formality, he still felt a twinge of dissatisfaction.

“Later… zhen still has to review documents… perhaps later tonight…”

“Tonight, it won’t just be this subject around.”

In the southwestern city of Bixue, Li Tingqiu returned from the military camp to find the imperial envoy had been waiting for quite some time.

After the imperial edict was read, the envoy smiled and said, “General, this mission is a certain victory. When you return from the victorious campaign, you will undoubtedly be rewarded; congratulations.”

Li Tingqiu’s lips curved slightly, yet the coldness in his expression deepened. Even his smile felt intimidating.

With a hint of flattery, the envoy said, “If the battle can be resolved quickly, you might be able to return to the capital in time for the empress’s appointment…”

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“Empress’s appointment?” Li Tingqiu fixed his gaze on him.

“Yes, yes… His Majesty intends to establish the eldest daughter of the Lin family as the empress, and the Wuhuan princess will also be taken as a consort after the ceremony to signify goodwill between the two nations.”

“Establishing an empress and taking consorts…” Li Tingqiu bit out these words, then chuckled, “It seems I really need to hurry.”

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The emperor’s marriage rituals are based on the customs of soliciting gifts, asking for names, receiving auspicious signs, accepting tributes, announcing the date, and issuing letters of invitation. The elaborate ceremony and grand scale of it need not be reiterated here. However, the previous emperor valued thriftiness and made efforts to simplify these matters. Therefore, Jing Ye ordered the Ministry of the Interior to act according to these principles, but nonetheless, the preparations for the wedding would still take several months.

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However, this was not something Jing Ye needed to consider, as the war between the Xijiang tribe and the Wuhuan people had reached a critical stage. Even more troublesome was that the Dayue tribe, which had previously been in conflict with the Wuhuan, had unexpectedly allied with the Xijiang.

One must say the leader of the Dayue tribe was a rare figure; generally, in a situation with one strong and two weak factions, the weaker ones must team up to deal with the strong one. Otherwise, once one of them is defeated, the other will soon meet the same fate.

But they did just that, ignoring the Wuhuan King’s proposal to unite against the enemy and ran wagging their tails straight to the Xijiang without looking back.

Now, the Wuhuan King could only place all his hopes on the emperor. He had already sent emissaries to the capital seeking assistance, and unlike last time, this time the emissary was accompanied by the Wuhuan King’s younger sister.

This Wuhuan princess was quite renowned for her beauty, and it was rumored that it was her charm that instigated the war between the Wuhuan and the Dayue.

The Wuhuan emissaries were welcomed with a banquet held in the Guangling Hall, where music played and dancers performed the famous Zhezhi dance from the Shi Kingdom in the western regions. The dancers, adorned with exquisite attire, gracefully moved to the pleasing sounds of the music.

Jing Ye absentmindedly fiddled with the intricately crafted wine cup in his hand, glancing at the Wuhuan emissary seated below. It was apparent that during or after the banquet, the emissary would propose something to him.

What would he propose? A request for horses? Grain? Troops? His appetite would surely be larger this time, especially since they had brought along that so-called “Bright Moon over the Mountain.”

Jing Ye shifted his gaze to the Wuhuan princess beside the emissary. She was veiled, revealing a pair of eyes shimmering in the candlelight with a hint of mystery, her features more pronounced than those of Han women, and her skin fairer than snow, reminding Jing Ye of the sweet steamed pastry made by Lu Baizang.

As Jing Ye was about to take another sip of wine, a slender hand blocked him. Lin Xiaosheng looked at him and said, “Your Majesty, have you forgotten this subject’s advice to limit yourself to just three cups?”

“Is this the third cup already?” Jing Ye looked at the cup and said, “…This drink is sweet; zhen figured it wouldn’t hurt to have a few more sips.”

Lin Xiaosheng directly took the cup from his hand, drank it all in one go, and stated, “Drinking too much is of no benefit; Your Majesty should not indulge at the expense of your health.”

Jing Ye reluctantly withdrew his hand, and feeling hungry after watching the performers for a while, he picked at the dishes on the table.

Lin Xiaosheng observed him, noting that due to Jing Ye’s health, there were many foods he was forbidden from eating, and even those he could eat had some restrictions on quantities. Over time, even if Lu Baizang could conjure up marvelous dishes, Jing Ye still felt little appetite.

The banquet was lively, and since he had eaten a few more bites, even if some dishes were not meant to be consumed in excess, Lin Xiaosheng chose not to interrupt.

Jing Ye glanced at the dancing girls below, unable to help but sigh, “The waist strength is truly impressive.”

Lin Xiaosheng glanced over and remarked, “Too thick.”

Jing Ye carefully examined and questioned, “Not thick at all.”

Lin Xiaosheng said nothing further and began to arrange the dishes for him.

As the music came to a close, the dancer bowed, and Jing Ye ordered a reward for her. The Wuhuan emissary stood up and clasped his fists, saying, “Your Majesty’s dancer is graceful. Although our women are skilled in dance, many cannot compare to her.”

Jing Ye responded, “Then there are still those with even higher skills?”

The Wuhuan emissary laughed, “This dance originates from the western regions, so naturally, we from the borders are more proficient. Our Princess Tian Shan can dance the most beautiful dance in the world.”

Jing Ye turned to the quiet “Bright Moon over the Mountain” sitting there and smiled, “Oh, is that true? If so, zhen would command the musicians to play again, and let the princess perform a dance on the spot, allowing zhen to witness it.”

The Wuhuan emissary looked over at the princess, who nodded, prompting him to clasp his fists and say, “It would be the princess’s honor to dance for Your Majesty.”

The princess stood up, and Jing Ye noticed that although her skin was fairer than snow, her figure was quite tall. He contemplated briefly and thought: Am I really going to take a consort taller than myself?

The palace attendants brought forth her dance attire, but the princess declined. She wore a deep blue dress, her long, dark hair was tied up and held by a crown on top of her head, and she stood gracefully in the center of the hall, her face veiled. For a moment, she resembled that of a young, androgynous Han youth.

Jing Ye: “…” Although he was not averse to men, he wasn’t particularly interested in a woman taller than himself.

The drum struck three times, and the princess twirled her sleeves, beginning the same opening movement as the previous dancer, but the former’s was soft and alluring, while the latter’s was vigorous and brisk.

The elegant sleeves flew, and the dance blended with the music.

The white jade bells emitted a crisp sound.

As the red candles lit up with peach leaves, the purple garments danced in harmony with the sweeping movements.

Jing Ye finally understood why this princess was referred to as the “Bright Moon over the Mountain.” While the previous dancer showcased her beauty, this one illustrated a breathtaking landscape.

One could almost visualize the tribespeople of the boundless grasslands, conquering everything with their strength, worshiping power, blood, and life. They possessed dark yet vibrant skin and wielded glimmering curved sabers.

As she danced, her movements were fast and intricate, reminiscent of a lone dancer under the moonlight on vast snowy mountains.

One glance and the performance would forever remain, as clouds drifted and the rain sent movement toward the dais.

The flowing hem of her attire fell gracefully, and just as Jing Ye regained his senses after the dance concluded, she stood quietly with her head bowed.

Jing Ye looked toward the Wuhuan emissary, who smiled and pressed his right fist against his left shoulder, bowing his head to Jing Ye and asking, “Is Your Majesty satisfied?”

Jing Ye smiled and replied, “The princess dazzled us with her performance; zhen‘s dancers are far inferior.”

After the banquet dispersed, Jing Ye entered the imperial study to negotiate with the Wuhuan emissary.

He had anticipated this day since the Xijiang invaded Wuhuan; regardless of which tribe the Xijiang targeted, once they subdued the territories beyond the borders, they would inevitably attack the inner territories. By that time, it would be too late to respond.

Thus, regardless of who was battling whom, Jing Ye aimed to provide the weaker side with appropriate support, to counterbalance one another, and thereby achieve lasting peace.

The negotiations centered around the extent of this assistance, which would depend on what the Wuhuan King was willing to offer.

An hour later, the Wuhuan emissary stood and bowed, saying, “Your Majesty, it is late, so please allow this humble subject to return and contemplate this matter. This humble subject will provide Your Majesty with an answer tomorrow.”

Jing Ye took a sip of his tea and called out, “Ye Mao!”

Ye Mao entered, turned around the partition, and stood behind the emissary.

Jing Ye said, “See the emissary out properly.”

The Wuhuan emissary bowed again, stating, “To repay Your Majesty’s kindness, our King wishes to offer his sister to you, hoping you will accept this sincerity.”

Jing Ye understood this was a transaction and nodded, “Please inform your king that zhen will treat his sister with kindness. Zhen will also select a virtuous young lady from my imperial family to be named a princess and to marry your king.”

The Wuhuan emissary hastily bowed, “Thanking Your Majesty.”

Ye Mao escorted him out, where a palace official responsible for receiving him led him outside the palace.

As the Wuhuan emissary followed the receiving official out of the imperial study, he noticed a man carrying a palace lantern, followed by a young servant, slowly walking toward the study.

He recognized this man; he was the one who had sat beside the emperor at the banquet.

The Wuhuan emissary asked the receiving official, “Who is he? How can he be at the monarch’s side at all times?”

The receiving official smiled and replied, “Emissary, you traveled a great distance to the capital and still do not know of the young gentlemen at His Majesty’s side?”

The Wuhuan emissary was completely confused; the last time he had visited the capital was ten years ago when the previous emperor was on the throne. This time, due to the rush he had no time to inquire about these matters.

Seeing that he truly did not understand, the receiving official lowered his voice and said, “Our emperor prefers handsome young men.”

“My lady.”

Lin Min came back to her senses, the ink droplet from her brush landing on the paper and spreading into a dark spot.

“My lady, it’s late; you should rest.”

Lin Min shook her head and asked, “What about Guangling Hall…?”

The maid replied, “The banquet has concluded. I heard that the Wuhuan princess performed a dance, and after the feast, she was taken to the Fengyang Palace to rest.”

Lin Min lowered her head and smiled slightly, getting up to pick up the ink-stained painting paper, holding it over the candlelight.

The maid quickly warned, “My lady, be careful of your hands!”

Lin Min let the paper fall to the ground, watching it burn to ashes, and then smiled, “I’m fine.”

Lin Xiaosheng pushed open the door to the study, walked past the partition, and turned into the inner chamber. Jing Ye was leaning back in his chair, resting his forehead on his hand, half asleep.

Lin Xiaosheng approached, bent down to stroke Jing Ye’s nose and lips, and reached around to his waist, intending to lift him.

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Jing Ye opened his eyes; he had woken up when Lin Xiaosheng touched him and yawned, “Zhen wants to sleep for a bit.”

Lin Xiaosheng replied, “Let’s go sleep in your chamber.”

Jing Ye sighed, standing up with Lin Xiaosheng’s assistance. Lin Xiaosheng’s hand lingered around his waist, carrying a reluctant feeling to part.

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Feng Ling finished speaking and placed the book back on the shelf, then took his leave.

With matters at hand, Jing Ye picked up the lantern from the ground and acknowledged the situation as it was.

A ruler is a ruler, and a subject is a subject.

After returning to the palace and having dinner, he opened the poetry collection and found a long poem titled “Xuanpu Lecture”, composed by a scholar from the previous dynasty, with the opening line being “The white essence has faded with the dusk, and the black radiance marks the beginning of its cycle.”

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Five days after the noble ladies entered the palace, a banquet was set in the Weiyang Palace, with the emperor himself attending to assess the appearances and virtues of the young women.

Jing Ye sat at the head, looking down at the girls sitting properly with bowed heads, and glanced at Ye Mao.

Ye Mao understood, turned to face the rest of the attendees, and announced, “Ladies, you’ve been in the palace for several days now. I trust the palace maids responsible for your education have guided you through seeing the Imperial Garden. Before we begin the banquet today, please compose a poem. There are no restrictions on rhyme; just depict the sights in the garden.”

Coming from scholarly families, they all had studied the Four Books and the teachings for girls from a young age, so writing a poem was not an issue. The problem, however, was that these poems were to be presented to the emperor; it wouldn’t do to express excessive sorrow or too much joy, nor should they use overly flamboyant language nor be too bland. They were anxious and unsure how to respond.

Jing Ye discreetly yawned; he himself did not know how to write poetry, let alone appreciate others’ poetry.

Less than half a stick of incense later, the first noble lady to rise and submit her poem was wearing a pomegranate red skirt, acting decisively and without the hesitation of the others.

Jing Ye smiled and called out, “Which family do you come from?”

The young lady curtsied, her eyes shimmering with intelligence as she looked up at Jing Ye before lowering her head again. “This subject’s daughter is a daughter of the Gu family, surname Gu, with the given name Mei.”

Jing Ye smiled, “Gu Mei? The youngest daughter of Prime Minister Gu? Zhen often hears your brother mention you.”

Gu Mei curtsied again, saying, “This subject’s daughter is… a clumsy person by nature, and does not dare to hope for Your Majesty’s favor.”

Jing Ye chuckled, “In the palace, women are often subject to many rules and constraints; one cannot cultivate a personality like yours in such an environment.”

These words tightened the hearts of those present; does that mean the emperor likes this brashness?

Gu Mei bit her lip and said, “This subject’s daughter feels quite frightened.”

This was her first time seeing her “love rival,” and she found him not as monstrous as the rumors suggested, but rather more gentle than the usual image of the emperor imagined by the people.

The second person to present her poem was Lin Min.

In contrast to Gu Mei’s casually chosen pomegranate red skirt, Lin Min wore a more dignified outfit. Born in the south of the Yangtze River, she inherited the unique gentleness typical of Jiangnan women, blending grace with a hint of charm.

Gradually, more people presented their papers, and Jing Ye casually asked questions while letting them take their seats. Among them was Yang Yuying; Jing Ye remembered that she had written “Cherish your beauty” on the paper she tied with silk.

Once the banquet began, Jing Ye found the gathering dull and opted to let Ye Mao take the poetry manuscripts, returning to the palace for lunch.

Inside the hall, Gu Hong, Lin Xiaosheng, and Lu Baizang were all present. The latter was teasing a few small children with prepared pastries. Upon seeing Jing Ye enter, he stood up and bowed, smiling mischievously, “I thought with so many beauties at once, Your Majesty might find it hard to resist staying in Weiyang Palace for endless nights of spring.”

Jing Ye shot him a sideways glance and replied, “The one who can’t resist is you. Why don’t zhen take all twenty-four of them into the palace to keep you company?”

Lu Baizang quickly responded, “This subject didn’t mean it like that.”

Jing Ye scoffed.

Lu Baizang, a bit confused, coaxed, “Is Your Majesty upset? It’s only natural, this subject isn’t happy seeing so many women either…”

Seeing the line “The white essence has faded with the dusk” along with Gu Mei’s expression at the banquet, Jing Ye, being well aware of worldly matters, understood that this was definitely the result of Villa Master Lu’s flirtations. (TN: the name Bai Zang comes from that line)

Even if Lu Baizang was not intentionally stirring up hearts, it was his habitual flirtation that had given rise to these one-sided affections.

His Majesty the Emperor began to contemplate whether it was a mistake to associate with a man who leaves a trail of romantic entanglements behind him.

Of course, Lu Baizang had no way of guessing what he was thinking. The sunlight streamed through the windows, illuminating Jing Ye’s clear features, which retained the youthful innocence of a boy yet also displayed the calmness and warmth of maturity. His complexion was pale, his posture straight but slightly thin, and clothed in his dignified dark robe embroidered with gold, he looked even more fragile.

However, this fragility only intensified the desire within men to embrace and possess; at least Lu Baizang felt a strong urge to take him to bed and engage in activities that the emperor had strictly designated for nighttime only.

Villa Master Lu always gave into his whims, so he tilted his head, expression intimate, and softly inhaled the scent from near Jing Ye’s ear, speaking in a low tone, “Your Majesty, you seem tired. Would you like to have lunch?”

Jing Ye snapped back to the moment, meeting his gaze, “En?”

Lu Baizang looked at the color of his lips, finding them increasingly enticing, truly…

Just as Villa Master Lu was about to make his move, a pair of chubby hands tugged at his sleeve vigorously, shouting, “Snacks!!!”

It was the little prince, impatiently demanding attention, eager for something to eat, so urgent that he had nearly perfected his pronunciation.

With his plan thwarted, Lu Baizang felt the person in his arms being pulled away by Gu Hong, who asked, “Did Your Majesty bring back the poetry written by the noble ladies from the banquet?”

Jing Ye replied, “Ye Mao is holding onto them; do you want to see them?”

Gu Hong smiled and said, “This subject would like to see how Gu Mei did.”

“Alright, let him bring them in,” Jing Ye nodded and then said to Lu Baizang, “It’s time for lunch; zhen wants to eat lion’s head meatballs.”

“…”

If there was anything that still attracted Jing Ye to Villa Master Lu, it was probably just that.

After lunch, they took a break. Gu Hong leaned against the side of the bed and casually flipped through the poetry manuscripts, laughing, “She has never been good at poetry since childhood, so there’s no need to discuss it. But there is one poem written by a noble lady that is different from that of ordinary women.”

Jing Ye asked, “Which one?”

Gu Hong glanced at the signature and replied, “Yang Yuying, writing about the spring willows in the Imperial Garden, subtly conveying great meaning through small things, though the satire towards the world is a bit harsh.”

Jing Ye thought for a moment and asked, “What about the eldest daughter of the Lin family?”

Gu Hong shook his head, saying, “It’s overly intricate.”

Days later, the emperor issued an edict that all the noble ladies, except for Lin Min, were to leave the palace immediately, escorted back to their families.

What did this mean? It meant that Lin Min, who remained in the palace, had surpassed all the competitors and was about to become the mother of the nation. Her family would become relatives of the imperial family, and she would enjoy the highest honors for life, eventually being buried alongside the emperor.

Almost everyone from the Lin family came to congratulate her, nearly trampling the doorstep in the process.

Lady Feng received a first-class title granted by Jing Ye, allowing her to visit her daughter in the palace before the grand wedding.

She instructed Lin Min to send away her attendants, leaving only her personal maid who had accompanied her into the palace, and then asked, “Are you happy?”

Lin Min smiled and replied, “Of course, this daughter is happy.”

Lady Feng sneered, “Happy?”

Lin Min’s smile faded, used to following her mother’s words and feeling somewhat bewildered by her expression.

Lady Feng said, “As long as you haven’t taken that seat, there’s nothing to be truly happy about.”

Lin Min said, “Mother… you are right.”

Lady Feng looked at her and asked, “Do you know why your father was able to become the head of the Lin family?”

Lin Min answered, “Because…”

Lady Feng continued, “Because your uncle had no sons throughout his life. And why did that wretched whore lose to me?”

Lin Min hung her head in silence. Lady Feng stated, “Because she came from a tainted background, a courtesan lacks moral stature.”

Lady Feng raised Lin Min’s chin, her voice cold, “You must remember, a woman without chastity is like a man who is impotent; even if you possess extraordinary wisdom, with no foundation, everything is meaningless.”

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Lin Min shivered slightly, watching as Lady Feng took out a small portrait of a man from her sleeve. Though hastily drawn and not detailed, its outline was still visible.

She turned her gaze to the personal maid standing by, who met her eyes and knelt, saying, “My lady…”

As Lin Min watched, the image was ignited by the candlelight, the flames licking at it, turning everything to ashes.

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After the morning court session, Jing Ye returned to the palace. Ye Mao instructed the palace maids to bring out tea, fruit, and pastries, saying, “These delicacies were prepared by Lu Gongzi for Your Majesty. He says they are new inventions; please have a taste to see if they are good.”

Jing Ye sat down and asked, “Where is he?”

Ye Mao pondered for a moment and replied, “Someone outside the palace sent an invitation, and Lu Gongzi has gone out of the palace to enjoy the peach blossoms.”

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Jing Ye remarked, “Peach blossoms? They can’t possibly be as beautiful as lovely women, can they?”

Ye Mao chuckled awkwardly, “It seems Your Majesty is already aware.”

Jing Ye looked at him and scoffed, “This isn’t something to be secretive about; why are you tiptoeing around it? Since he enjoys the beauty of peach blossoms and women, let him be the selection official this time, and pick a few virtuous consorts for me.”

Ye Mao broke out in a cold sweat; it was clear that the emperor was upset about something. At today’s morning court discussions, reports of floods in the south were delivered, plans had emerged for defense in the northwest, and there were also reports from spies indicating that the Xijiang army had invaded the Wuhuan territory, with envoys from Wuhuan heading to the capital for help—most likely on their way day and night.

In truth, Jing Ye felt a sense of unfairness; he was burdened with all the paperwork in the imperial study while Lu Baizang spent his days idly and even bullied him at night.

Could the heavens be more unfair?

Meanwhile, as Lu Gongzi was joking and laughing with beautiful ladies in Ronghua Pavilion, he suddenly felt a chill down his back; his hand holding the folding fan slowed. Lin Min inquired, “Gongzi?”

Coming back to his senses, Lu Baizang closed his fan and smiled, “Young Lady Lin, with both beauty and talent, you will surely attract His Majesty’s favor and gain great honor, making countless people envious.”

Lin Min smiled, though a hint of melancholy in her eyes went unnoticed by others.

“Villa Master Lu is truly favored by His Majesty; I hope you can say a few good words for my daughter in front of His Majesty,” Lady Feng said as she approached, fanning herself and slightly curtsying to Lu Baizang.

Lu Baizang returned the gesture and said, “Of course.”

Lady Feng nodded, “I need to take my daughter to greet the various officials; please excuse us.”

Lu Baizang waved his fan and said, “Madam may go on without worry.”

With a smile, Lady Feng turned and shared a look with Lin Min before leading her away.

Lu Baizang squinted as he watched the mother and daughter walk away, just then hearing a voice call from behind, “Hey!”

Turning around, he saw a girl dressed in a light yellow dress with a hint of makeup, her bright and lively eyes belonging to none other than Gu Mei, the youngest daughter of the Gu family.

Lu Baizang clicked his tongue, “Who are you calling ‘hey’? How could you be so crude? Born into a cultured family, acting like this—what man would find that appealing?”

Gu Mei huffed, “I mind my own business; why should I care what men think? What about you? Already a favorite of His Majesty, yet still flirting and gallivanting around, don’t you fear His Majesty’s anger?”

Lu Baizang smirked, “His Majesty isn’t the type to get jealous easily.”

Gu Mei was so incensed she nearly spat blood. If she were in modern times, she would understand that such behavior that could make countless single individuals fume with resentment was a phenomenon known as “showing off affection.”

“You’re insufferable! I can’t bother to talk to you!” Gu Mei stomped back to Yang Yuying, who asked, “Why did you come back after just a couple of words?”

Gu Mei bit her lip and remained silent. Used to traveling with her brothers and speaking her mind, she still felt a bit coy in front of the man who made her heart flutter.

Unfortunately, he already had someone, and that person was the emperor on top of that; those little girlhood whims that had gone unnoticed before would never again be acknowledged.

After the flower banquet at Ronghua Pavilion, paintings depicting the ladies and the physical descriptions of the young women recommended by the gentry from various regions were presented to the palace, along with information on the personalities and genealogies of the candidates, to supply the emperor for selection.

Jing Ye grew tired of looking at the paintings and finally tossed them to Gu Hong and and the other two to consider and select.

Lu Baizang remarked, “Oh, this daughter of Magistrate Duan is skilled in embroidery, well-read… but what use is it to recite poetry? No thanks.”

“This is the second daughter of Lord Song, talented at cooking, particularly at making soups… but Your Majesty doesn’t like soup; no thanks.”

Leaning back on the soft couch, Jing Ye heard this and felt exasperated. Who said he didn’t like soup?

Gu Hong didn’t even look at the paintings, only picking based on the candidate’s background and the name of the official who made the recommendation.

Jing Ye casually glanced over: “Ai, why pick this one?”

Gu Hong said, “This young lady surnamed Yu has a father who has achieved the highest scholarly accolades, and her mother is a legitimate descendant of the Prince of Pingyang from back in the day, making her of noble birth.”

Jing Ye replied, “But she… she doesn’t look very…”

Lin Xiaosheng held the list of names, quickly scanning each page, and crossed out more than half.

Jing Ye asked, “How are you choosing?”

Lin Xiaosheng answered, “Based on luck.”

Jing Ye: “…”

Once the candidates were finalized, the twenty-four selected noble ladies were escorted into the palace by the palace maids.

Among them were Lin Min, the eldest daughter of the Lin family, Gu Mei, the youngest daughter of the Gu family, and Yu Ying, the daughter of the Yang family.

Jing Ye didn’t have to worry about these matters, but while returning to his quarters from the imperial study in the evening, he caught sight of the flowers in the imperial garden, all tied with colorful silk ribbons, gently swaying in the evening breeze.

Jing Ye signaled for the imperial sedan to pause and asked Ye Mao, “What are these?”

Ye Mao bowed and informed him, “Today the various noble ladies are entering the palace, and according to palace customs, a small banquet was set up in the imperial garden. The flowers are tied with silk ribbons for good luck; the palace women often engage in such pastimes to entertain themselves.”

Jing Ye approached, carefully examining a branch. Seeing this, Ye Mao continued, “People also often write auspicious messages and tie them in for good fortune.”

Jing Ye unwrapped a piece of paper and read, “Tonight’s dew is white, the moon shines bright in my hometown.”

Feeling homesick? No matter how talented or beautiful you may be, you won’t be chosen; soon you’ll be going home.

Jing Ye unwrapped a few more, seeing some expressing longing for family, some lamenting the solitude of the palace, and others wrote “Send me to the heavens,” indicating grand ambitions to dominate the Six Palaces.

Intrigued, Jing Ye raised his head and searched among the branches, discovering a strip of silk hidden among the leaves that was not easily visible. He reached out to pull it down, causing two scrolls to fall to the ground.

Jing Ye picked them up and unrolled them. One scroll read: “Cherish your beauty.”

Another scroll was even more baffling, containing the words “the black radiance marks the beginning of its cycle” and “the mountain has trees, and the trees have branches.”

The latter line was somewhat clear; it seemed someone had developed feelings for someone else. But what about the first part?

When Jing Ye looked at the signature, he was surprised to find it was someone he actually recognized: Gu Mei.

He asked Ye Mao, “Have you seen this phrase before?”

Ye Mao lowered his head, smiling, “This servant is just a simple servant, how could this servant recognize such things? If Your Majesty wishes to understand it, you’d best summon a scholar to inquire or perhaps this servant could look for it in the palace library.”

Jing Ye seldom visited the library, but since it was close to the time for lanterns to be lit and one trip wouldn’t be a bad idea, he agreed, “Then let’s go look for it.”

When the imperial sedan reached the library, Jing Ye instructed the palace attendants to wait outside while he and Ye Mao went in.

Upon entering, they saw rows of bookshelves nearly two people high, and the palace attendant in charge of the library fetched a ladder. Ye Mao said, “Please wait here, Your Majesty, while this servant brings someone to look for it.”

Jing Ye nodded, watching Ye Mao and the others head further inside. He approached a small table and picked up a copy of “Records of the Grand Historian” and began to flip through it. He noticed annotations written in the margins next to each section; the characters were small but very well-formed, exuding the demeanor of a gentleman.

He came across a note next to a military account of the last dynasty’s general, Sun Ruhua, that said: “The medical text states: treat not the disease already occurred, but rather those not yet come. Not treating the chaos, nor the accumulated problems; the long-term issues cannot be resolved with just one battle.”

“This subject pays respects to Your Majesty.”

Jing Ye snapped back to reality, realizing someone was kneeling by the door, holding a lantern beside them.

As the light illuminated, Jing Ye recognized the figure and exclaimed in surprise, “Feng Ling?”

The other remained silent for a moment, then said, “This subject is serving in the library today and accidentally took the books thinking they were mine, so this subject returned to put them back, disturbing Your Majesty. Please forgive this subject.”

Jing Ye glanced at the book in his hand and took a few steps closer, “Is this yours?”

Feng Ling looked up and replied, “Yes, it is this subject’s book. Thank you, Your Majesty.”

Just as he was about to take it, Jing Ye stepped back, “Did you write all these annotations?”

Feng Ling looked at him and replied, “… Yes.”

Jing Ye glanced at the copy of “Records of the Grand Historian” again, then back at the young man kneeling before him, and sighed, “Perhaps placing you in the Hanlin Academy was a waste of your talents.”

This person never needed his protection; a gentleman like bamboo weathered the wind and rain and flourished in his own way.

Feng Ling said, “Your Majesty possesses everything in the world, and wherever you command this subject to go, this subject will gladly oblige.”

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

Jing Ye watched him silently. Ye Mao emerged with the poetry book he had found, glanced at the scene in surprise, and still presented the book, saying, “Your Majesty, this subject found it.”

Jing Ye didn’t look at Ye Mao; he genuinely wanted to understand what Feng Ling was thinking: “Why?”

“Because a monarch’s command must not be defied, and my body and mind belong to Your Majesty.”

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